News

This December, Live Arts Toledo proudly presents the 85th annual production of The Nutcracker, the longest-running production of the beloved holiday ballet in North America. Performances run December 12–14, 2025 at The Stranahan Theater and is presented by Fifth Third Bank.

First staged in Toledo in 1941, The Nutcracker has become one of the region’s most cherished holiday traditions. More than eight decades later, the production continues to bring together students, families, professional artists, and community guests in celebration of imagination and holiday magic.

The Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) proudly announces a five-year contract extension for Eric Otto, who will continue his role as Artistic Director and Head of Curriculum for Toledo Ballet. The new contract begins July 1, 2025, and extends through June 2030.

Since joining the organization in 2022, Otto has led a vibrant artistic renaissance, expanding educational and performance opportunities while deepening collaborations between Toledo Ballet and the Toledo Symphony.

Toledo Ballet announces the hiring of professional dancer Liza van Heerden as a member of Toledo Ballet faculty and Principal Dancer for Toledo Ballet productions. 

“Liza’s arrival is the beginning of our dream to create a small professional company here at Toledo Ballet,” says Eric Otto, Artistic Director and Head of Curriculum at Toledo Ballet.