A first visit to the ballet comes with a few practical questions. Which performance should you choose? How long will it last? Can children meet the dancers? A little planning leaves more time to enjoy the occasion together.
This December, South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Koger Center brings William Starrett’s production to Columbia for six performances across two weekends. Presented by the state’s largest professional ballet company, it follows Clara’s journey from a Christmas party to the Land of Sweets, with Tchaikovsky’s music accompanying the story.
Choose a performance that suits your family
For younger children, a matinee may fit more comfortably around bedtime. Families who prefer an evening at the theatre can choose a Saturday performance, when the South Carolina Ballet Orchestra performs the score live.
The 2026 Koger Center performances are:
| Date | Matinee | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, December 12 | 3:00 p.m. | 7:30 p.m., with live orchestra |
| Sunday, December 13 | 3:00 p.m. | |
| Saturday, December 19 | 3:00 p.m. | 7:30 p.m., with live orchestra |
| Sunday, December 20 | 3:00 p.m. |
View South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker performances and book tickets through the Koger Center.
Prepare for a first visit to the ballet
Children do not need to know ballet terminology to enjoy the performance. Before your visit, read a short version of The Nutcracker together or listen to a few selections from Tchaikovsky’s score. Recognizing a character or a piece of music can give a young audience member something to look forward to.
Talk about how dancers tell a story through movement, expression and gesture. You might ask your child to watch for a favorite costume or notice how the music changes from one scene to another.
Allow approximately two hours for the ballet, including intermissions, based on South Carolina Ballet’s published production timings. When deciding whether your child is ready, consider how comfortable they are sitting through a longer performance. A relaxed schedule before and afterward can help keep the day manageable.
Meet the dancers at a Nutcracker Tea
For children who would enjoy meeting the people they will see on stage, South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker Teas offer time with the dancers before the afternoon performance.
Parents, grandparents and children share a seated tea with sandwiches, cakes and hors d’oeuvres. Dancers visit in their Nutcracker costumes, pose for photographs and sign Dancebills.
The 2026 teas take place at the Koger Center on December 12, 13 and 19, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., before the 3:00 p.m. matinees. Tickets are $40 per person. Tables seat eight, and smaller parties may share a table with other guests.
Tea tickets and ballet tickets are purchased separately. Admission to the tea does not include the performance, so book both for the same date if you plan to attend together.
Reserve Nutcracker Tea tickets.
Plan your arrival at the Koger Center
The Koger Center for the Arts is at 1051 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29201. Allow time for parking, a restroom visit and finding your seats before the performance begins. Nearby options include paid parking lots, garages and metered street parking. Review the Koger Center’s visitor and parking information before setting out.
Every audience member needs a ticket, including babies and children of all ages. Booster seats are available in limited numbers on a first-come basis; ask a staff member when you arrive. Strollers and car seats must be checked rather than taken into the auditorium. These details are covered in the venue’s guidance for families.
Choose clothes your child will be comfortable sitting in, even if dressing up is part of the occasion. Have your tickets ready before reaching the entrance so you can concentrate on getting everyone settled.
Book your family’s visit
Start with the performance time that works best for your family, then decide whether to add a tea. After the ballet, leave room for a conversation about what your child noticed: a dancer, a costume, a musical moment or a scene they would like to see again.
Book South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker at the Koger Center and explore the Nutcracker Tea dates to plan your December visit.
