Lexington families can look forward to a holiday tradition without worrying about ticket costs. One Love Dance Company, the nonprofit arm of Lexington Dance Factory, is offering pay‑what‑you‑can tickets for its upcoming performances of The Nutcracker at the EKU Center for the Arts on December 3 and 4.

Making the arts accessible

“Our nonprofit works all year long to raise money so that we can offer shows for children at no or little cost depending on what people can afford,” said Brianna Legg, a spokesperson for One Love Dance Company. The organization sets a suggested price of $5 per ticket, but families who cannot meet that amount are encouraged to request a free ticket. Funds raised throughout the year subsidize the production, ensuring that cost does not keep a classroom from attending.

Impact on students

Each year the school‑season shows draw close to 2,000 kids into the theater, many of them seeing The Nutcracker for the first time. “Exposure to the arts, the exposure to history and culture, the exposure to an arts venue like EKU Center for the Arts broadens their horizons and gives them something to think about for their future,” Legg explained.

Dancers themselves cherish the tradition. “I like seeing all their reactions because it’s such a special thing and I remember when I found my love of dance through my first Nutcracker,” said dancer Bailey Legg. Young performer Audrey Cox, only nine years old, shared her excitement: “I like doing the firebird a lot. It’s truly magical and entertaining, not just classical ballet.”

How to get tickets

School and community groups interested in attending should contact One Love Dance Company at [email protected]. The organization encourages teachers and leaders to reach out early, noting that “even if you may have some obstacles, please reach out to us. We’d love to help you figure out how to get your class there.”

Supporting the program

One Love Dance Company relies on year‑round fundraising, donations, and community partnerships to keep the program viable. By offering a flexible pricing model, the nonprofit demonstrates a commitment to the traditional family value of providing cultural enrichment for children, regardless of a family’s financial situation.

The performances promise a high‑quality production, complete with elaborate sets, costumes, and even aerial silks that “hang from the ceiling,” according to Legg. The company hopes the experience will inspire a new generation of dancers and arts supporters in Lexington.

Looking ahead

With the holiday season approaching, One Love Dance Company’s initiative stands as a reminder that local nonprofits can bridge gaps in arts education, reinforcing the community’s cultural fabric while honoring the joy of shared family experiences.

Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.