Avoid parking problems at SFA's 'Great Russian Nutcracker'

Tickets are still available for the world-renowned Moscow Ballet's performances of "Great Russian Nutcracker" at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, and Friday, Dec. 18, in W.M.Turner Auditorium as an Encore Event to the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - "Allow time for parking" is the general recommendation for East Texans who will be attending either performance of Moscow Ballet's "Great Russian Nutcracker" in Stephen F. Austin State University's W.M. Turner Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, and Friday, Dec. 18.

"We have ample parking for our patrons, but the number of spaces on Alumni Drive immediately in front of the Griffith Fine Arts Building is limited," said Diane Flynn, SFA Box Office manager. "Plus, for Thursday night's performance, most of those will be reserved for our VIP patrons who have purchased a special parking pass."

Flynn recommends patrons use the free parking garage at the corner of Raguet and E. College Streets or the parking lot at the corner of North and Wettermark Streets. The walk from either is equivalent to about two blocks.

"Free parking is also available along Vista and Alumni Drives and Griffith Boulevard, but those spaces may be taken by people attending the numerous holiday- and graduation-related events in the Baker Pattillo Student Center," Flynn warned. For a small fee, patrons may be able to park in the Student Center Parking Garage accessible via Clark or Griffith Boulevards.

There are several handicapped parking spaces along Vista and Alumni Drives. Drivers are also welcome to drop off passengers in front of the Griffith Fine Arts Building and then park and walk.

"We want the entire evening to be an enjoyable experience for all of our patrons," said Flynn. "That's why we're encouraging everyone to get to campus early so that no one is rushed to get to the auditorium."

The Griffith Fine Arts Building is located at 2222 Alumni Dr. A map showing available parking can be accessed by visiting www.boxoffice.sfasu.edu and following the link for parking.

Tickets for "Great Russian Nutcracker" range from $35 to $17.50, with discounts available for seniors, students and youth. For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.

The ballet is an Encore Event to the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series. It is sponsored in part by Lehmann Eye Center.