'Nutcracker' features more magic, terrific set designs

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Holiday magic has always been a part of "The Nutcracker," given Marie's dreamy journey to the Land of Enchantment. But now choreographer Terrence Orr doesn't waste any time getting to the heart of the matter. In years past, the lamplighter took a leisurely walk, a serene prelude to what was to come. Perhaps acknowledging that this could be a bit of a yawn for young audiences, Mr. Orr literally pumped up the magic from the start.