Sleigh bells ring, but we’re not listening. Not to sound too bah-humbug, but the whole laughing-all-the-way/chestnuts-roasting/mommy-kissing-Santa-Claus thing can get a little wearisome year after year. That’s why we’re always grateful to Tony Williams of BalletRox for his annual Urban Nutcracker extravaganza. Ain’t no Christmas Miracle like a Christmas miracle set to the music of Duke Ellington. Williams, a vet of the Joffrey Ballet, Boston Ballet, and others, infuses the holiday staple with a diverse array of music and dance styles; his lively interpretation features professional dancers, like Khalid Hill, an original performer in Bring in ’Da Noise, Bring in ’Da Funk, and about 75 local children. Watch as the Sugar Plum Fairies bring some rhythm and sass to John Hancock Hall (180 Berkeley Street, Boston). For tickets ($20 to $55) call 877.548.3237 or visit www.ticketfusion.com.
