By Steve Sucato When it comes to Christmas holiday season entertainment in the U.S., The Nutcracker ballet ranks high on the list. The magical tale of a young girl who dreams of a heroic handsome prince that whisks her off to a land of sweets is a favorite of children and adults alike.  So when former Pacific Northwest Ballet star Patricia Barker took over as artistic … Continue reading ‘Polar Express’ Author and ‘Wicked’ Designer join with Choreographer Caniparoli and Director Barker to create new ‘Nutcracker’ for Grand Rapids Ballet