Submitted Photo Cellist Abbie Eads will perform with the “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” production.

Minot-based cellist Abbie Eads will take to the stage for the “Dying Swan” piece in the “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” on Friday in Ann Nicole Nelson Hall on the Minot State University campus. The production begins at 7 p.m.

A former ballerina, Eads also is a conductor, currently conductor-in-residence of the Northwest Edvard Grieg Society,

This season, she is conducting and performing cello in collaboration with various ensembles, including the Minot Symphony Orchestra, Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra, Bemidji Symphony Orchestra, Western Plains Opera, Minot Chamber Chorale, Dakota Pro Musica and the Northwest Edvard Grieg Society.

Her current work as a development officer for the Minot State University Foundation provides her with an opportunity to inspire more people to become supporters of the arts.

This year marks the 31st annual North American tour of the “Nutcracker” production, created by world-renowned ballet virtuosos Mary Giannone and Akiva Talmi. It is the only nationally touring “Nutcracker production.” The 2023 production showcases a record number of international talent, starring principal dancers from the opera houses of Ukraine and 40 world-class artists, including from Japan, Italy and Turkey.