Agenda

Nutcracker and Sweets

Dec. 16-18: One of Holyoke’s most beloved holiday traditions will return as the Massachusetts Academy of Ballet presents Nutcracker & Sweets at Wistariahurst. This unique, historical interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is presented through narration and dance in the historic setting of Wistariahurst, thanks to the support of Holyoke Gas & Electric. Student dancers will perform the magical story with a local historical twist and lively choreography, in eight performances on Friday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 17 at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 18 at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and advance ticket purchases are required. Tickets are available online at www.wistariahurst.org, and can also be purchased in person at the Wistariahurst visitor’s center, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seated tickets are available for $15. Children under 4 are permitted on laps at no additional charge (one child per adult). Standing-room-only tickets are available for $12. Massachusetts Academy of Ballet is a training school for students interested in pursuing a career in classical ballet. The academy also has a program for non-professional students and adults seeking ballet training and artistic education. Classes emphasize classical ballet technique, musicality, artistry, and creativity.

Tree of Love Ceremony

Dec. 17: As the holiday season approaches, the Baystate Wing Auxiliary has set the date for its annual Tree of Love ceremony. This special event, created to honor and remember loved ones, features ornaments that can be purchased, personalized, and placed on the tree with names in memory of family and friends. “There is a definite comfort in coming together with others to remember someone, especially during the holidays,” said Teresa Grove, president of the Auxiliary and Philanthropy officer for the Baystate Health Eastern Region, which includes Baystate Wing and Baystate Mary Lane Outpatient Center. The ornaments may be purchased for $5 for a single name and $10 for a family. In addition, the community is invited to be part of an event held on Sunday, Dec. 17 from 1 to 3 p.m., when the decorated Tree of Love will be displayed in the lobby located on the ground floor of the hospital. This special event will include fellowship, refreshments, and festive music by Voices of Love and Remembrance. “The Tree of Love is our annual tradition that warms our hearts as we remember loved ones and celebrate their lives,” said Carol Doyle, an auxiliary member who coordinates the event. All proceeds benefit the Baystate Wing Auxiliary, which in turn donates needed equipment and other items for the benefit of patients to the hospital. The funds from this year’s event will benefit the Baystate Wing Hospital Emergency Department expansion project. For more information about the Tree of Love or to purchase an ornament, stop in the Baystate Wing Hospital Gift Shop or call Doyle at (413) 267-9219.