My family and I attended a wonderful performance of The Nutcracker today by Ballet Arizona under the artistic direction of Ib Andersen.
Of all the many times I've seen this ballet, this is by far the most lavish production to date. The costumes were ornately designed and complemented the colorful set pieces. It was obvious that a great deal of time and detail went into the visual aspects of the show.
I actually just saw a performance last week by the Los Angeles Ballet Company of this same production. While the production values of Ballet Phoenix were significantly higher, the LA Ballet had much better dancers and choreography.
I think Ballet Arizona did a fantastic job. The standing ovation by the thorngs of childern in the audience was proof of that.
Check it out!