'Feed him walnuts and he will crack open a tale ...' The Nutcracker

The Moscow Ballet Company brought its version of the "Great Russian Nutcracker" to southern Illinois Monday evening with an appearance at the Marion Cultural & Civic Center. Ceasar Maragni photo

With a traveling troupe of 34 dancers, the Moscow Ballet Company brought its version of the Great Russian Nutcracker to Marion Monday, filling the stage at the Marion Cultural & Civic Center. Photos by Ceasar Maragni

The skill and beauty displayed by members of the Moscow Ballet during the company's presentation of the Great Russian Nutcracker elicited an enthusiastic response from a sold out audience Monday night at the Marion Cultural & Civic Center. Ceasar Maragni photo