Roman Baca, founder and director of New York’s Exit 12 Dance Company, puts a unique twist on his staging of The Nutcracker for Connecticut–based Ballet Theatre Company. The former marine (who was deployed to Iraq in 2005) plays the role of “Colonel Drosselmeyer” in the production, and the gift of the nutcracker doll is meant to comfort Clara, whose relative is being deployed for real (not just mouse) battle.

Baca hopes audience members will enjoy the holiday message of the ballet while at the same time remembering and honoring our country’s servicemen and women. Those attending performances are encouraged to bring donations for Marine Toys for Tots.

Exit 12’s Nutcracker will be shown December 13–16 at Hartford’s University of Saint Joseph. For tickets and info, click here.