This is the ultimate holiday concert: a klezmerized version of Tchaikovsky’s perennial classic which delights the whole family. With annual performances in Boston, Hartford and New York City, it makes klezmer aficionados plotz and leaves Tchaikovsky fans rolling on the floor with laughter. Combining the zany wit of Spike Jones with the class and craft of Duke Ellington, Shirim recast the Nutcracker as a Hannukah classic with images of a dancing Potato Latkes Queen and marching Macabees. Emphasizing the Eastern European elements of the score with witty intelligence and playful irreverence, Shirim redefines the modern melting pot of "world music." The concert is filled out with classic klezmer music and klezmer versions of Mahler, Brahms and Enesco.

Audio Samples:

Trepak,  Tantz Chinese