Theaters screening New York City Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’

“The Nutcracker” has been a New York City Ballet staple since its 1954 debut.

On Tuesday, however, audiences across the country will have a chance to revel in the magic of legendary choreographer George Balanchine’s version in a high-definition broadcast to more than 500 movie theaters — including seven in Southern Nevada.

Indeed, if it weren’t for Balanchine, “The Nutcracker” might not be a Christmas classic at all.

Despite its lilting, lively Tchaikovsky score, it wasn’t exactly a smash following its 1892 premiere in Russia — which Balanchine undoubtedly knew firsthand, having danced in the debut production as a young student in Russia.

But when Balanchine decided to make “Nutcracker” NYCB’s first full-length production, a classic was born — in a production that, more than 50 years later, marks New York City Ballet’s multiplex debut.

In addition to the production itself, featuring Balanchine’s choreography and Tchaikovsky’s score, “George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker Live” — hosted by Kelly Ripa — includes backstage, behind-the-scenes interviews with principal dancers and a visit to NYCB’s School of American Ballet.

Locally, the production will be shown at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the following theaters: Cinemark’s Orleans, Sam’s Town, Santa Fe and South Point multiplexes, Galaxy’s Cannery and Regal’s Colonnade and Village Square.

Tickets are available at theater box offices or online at www.fathomevents.com.

Contact reporter Carol Cling at ccling@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0272.