When Christmas trees and holiday decorations become part of the urban landscape, The Nutcracker cannot be far behind. Tchaikovsky’s ballet classic has become a perennial of the holiday season and Miami City Ballet’s annual edition opened Thursday night before an enthusiastic audience at the Arsht Center.

George Balanchine’s 1954 production for New York City Ballet was the harbinger for annual performances in December by companies large and small. MCB has the largest Balanchine repertoire of any company outside of New York so it is entirely appropriate that his distinctive choreography has become the company’s version of choice. Happily MCB has freshened up its two-decades-old production. The show looks great and the dancing is strong across the board with terrific solo turns and sharp ensemble work...