A Bur-Less-Q Nutcracker beat out more than 70 other Nutcracker-themed productions to take home The Nutty statuette and a cash prize for its education programs. The company joins the ranks of past winners that include Debbie Allen Dance Academy, the Joffrey Ballet, Boston Ballet, the Kirov Ballet and The House Theater of Chicago.

"For our small company to be nominated amongst some world class dance companies has been thrilling," said artistic director/producer Mark-Brian Sonna, who wrote, choreographed and starred in A Bur-Less-Q Nutcracker, in a statement. "Who would have thought eight years ago when (over several margaritas) we came up with the concept of the show that it would entertain thousands of people, become the most performed Nutcracker every year in Texas, and become a cult hit that has now earned a national award? Words cannot adequately express my excitement to receive such a momentous honor."

A Bur-Less-Q Nutcracker, according to press notes, "finds the ladies of the Beulaville Baptist Book Club hosting a fundraiser production of Tchaikovsky's famous ballet. But when the entire cast of ballet dancers falls ill from a bad batch of piña colada casserole, it's up to burlesque stars The Velvet Kittens to save the day."

The Goldstar National Nutcracker Award, the only nationwide award for live Nutcracker-themed performances, showcases the "astounding quality and variety of Nutcracker productions each year – from classic ballet to hip-hop, burlesque and more."

For more information, visit Goldstar.com/Nutcrackers.