In 2013, American Midwest Ballet and the Nebraska Humane Society created the “Muttcracker” program to promote the adoption of shelter pets.
At each of American Midwest Ballet’s performances of The Nutcracker, a shelter dog is a featured guest star in the grand Christmas Party scene.
The Muttcracker guest stars are specially selected by the Humane Society’s animal behavior specialists for their loving personalities and calm stage presence as they share the spotlight with the company’s professional dancers.
Artistic director Erika Overturff has a special place in her heart for the ballet’s Muttcracker program.
“My own dog, Maggie, was a shelter pet,” says Overturff. “I love helping other pets find homes.”
Click here to make a shelter pet part of your life.
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