(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- American Repertory Ballet, New Jersey’s premier professional ballet company, will return to State Theatre New Jersey and present two performances during its 2017-2018 season: Carmen and Nutcracker. Led by Artistic Director Douglas Martin, American Repertory Ballet is recognized as presenters of the finest ballet to the residents of New Jersey and beyond.

Carmen - American Repertory Ballet returns this fall with a dazzling triple-bill. The program opens with an ARB premiere, Spring Waters, a pas de deux of boundless joy, choreographed by Asaf Messerer. Next is Kirk Peterson’s The Eyes that Gently Touch, set to the driving rhythms of Philip Glass’ Mad Rush, culminating in a dance replete of romance and thrilling movement. The performance concludes with another company premiere: Peterson’s Carmen. Based on Georges Bizet’s opera, Peterson tells the tale of Carmen, a passionate, free-spirited woman, the fickle Don José, and her love triangle between Don José and popular bullfighter Escamillo. Performance takes place on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:00pm.

Nutcracker - American Repertory Ballet brings the beloved classic Nutcracker to the stage with Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, thrilling choreography and a cast of more than 100. A holiday tradition for more than 50 years (1964), American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker is one of the longest, continuously running Nutcracker productions in the nation. Directed by Artistic Director Douglas Martin, ARB’s professional company will be joined by select students from Princeton Ballet School to tell the story of a young girl named Clara and how a mysterious gift from her Uncle Drosselmeyer brings about enchanted dreams and fantastical scenes. American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker is a perfect holiday treat for your entire family!  Performances take place December 15 at 7:30pm; December 16 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm; December 17 at 1:00pm and 5:00pm; and a special school-time performance on December 15 at 10:30am.  Nutcracker performances feature a live orchestra and choir.

American Repertory Ballet’s mission is to bring the joy, beauty, artistry and discipline of classical and contemporary dance to New Jersey and beyond through artistic and educational programs, presented by a financially responsible organization.

For more information about American Repertory Ballet and these performances please visit: www.arballet.org