In the studio yesterday, every run through carried a sense of meaning and connection. As our dancers brought The Nutcracker to life, refining each entrance, imagining each character, and sharing the joy that fills this tradition, we were reminded of the legacy that shaped so many of these moments. Our late Artistic Director Jo Matos built a foundation of wonder, warmth, and possibility for generations of young dancers at the Joffrey Ballet School. Her spirit is felt in every smile, every correction, and every burst of excitement that fills the Children’s and Youth Ballet Program during Nutcracker season. As we prepare to take the stage, we carry her love, her vision, and her immeasurable impact with us. This year’s Nutcracker performances, beginning this Friday and continuing through the weekend, are dedicated to Jo in honor of the joy she gave our dancers and the community she helped build. 🎟️ Join us in celebrating this tradition and her memory. Click ‘The Nutcracker’ link in bio...