It simply would not be Christmas without Tchaikovsky’s classic confection, “The Nutcracker.”

This year, Hampton Roads will be treated to performances of the beloved ballet by the State Ballet of Virginia – the RichMon,d Ballet – joined by Todd Rosenlieb Dance, the Virginia Childrens’ Chorus and the Virginia Symphony. Stoner Winslett, Director of the RichMon,d Ballet and choreographer for this new production, spoke with Jonathan Lichtenstein about it the quintessential holiday ballet.