I am fond of the 1943 movie, but it does have its problems. The opportunity to finally see the show at City Center's Encores! series last week, ostensibly as it was originally performed in 1940 on Broadway, filled me with anticipation. And trepidation.

For many, The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition, ushering in the season with growing trees, toy-sized battles, and sugarplum fairies tottering from one pointe shoe to the other.