Top 10 Nutcracker Performances in the USA

Top 10 Nutcracker Performances

There’s no performance more evocative of Christmastime than the classic tale of The Nutcracker. Based on the 1816 book, ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’ by gothic writer E.T.A. Hoffmann, and danced to Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s much-cherished score, the narrative follows a young girl and her toy nutcracker on a Christmas Eve’s escapade. The story sees her transported from her bedroom to magical lands and encounters with the Nutcracker Prince, Herr Drosselmeyer, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Snow Queen. A truly magical tale, featuring lavish sets and opulent costumes, take your pick from these awe-inspiring Nutcracker performances.

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George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, New York City Ballet

Featuring an impressive 90 dancers, 62 musicians and over 125 children, this adaption of the classic ballet is a spectacle to behold. Look out for extraordinary visual effects and the late Balanchine’s stunning choreography.

Dates: 23-31 Dec 2022.
At: New York City Ballet, David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023. More Info

Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker, Chicago

At the stroke of midnight on a snowy Christmas Eve, Marie sets out on a magical journey through Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, a marvel of sights, sounds, and enchantment. A mesmerizing, modern rendition for the whole family to enjoy.

Dates: Dec 3–27, 2022.
At: Lyric Opera House, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606. More Info

Alexander Iziliaev, courtesy of Philadelphia Ballet

Philadelphia Ballet’s The Nutcracker

A thrilling production featuring resplendent costumes, opulent sets, and captivating choreography. Get ready to gasp as mice battle, children jump out of a larger-than-life skirt, and revel in an unforgettable production that ignites childlike wonder.

Dates: Dec 9-28, 2022.
At: Academy of Music, 240 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102. More Info

Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker

Stanton Welch’s choreography promises one of the most splendid versions of this holiday classic. Look forward to spectacular costumes, epic battle scenes and evocative projections that help bring magical moments to life.

Dates: Nov 26 - Dec 2, 2022.
At: Margaret Alkek Williams Center for Dance, 601 Preston Street, Houston, Texas. More Info

Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker

An extravagant, enchanting production with statement sets and costumes, Ib Andersen’s elegant rendition has been going strong since 2006. Fun fact: over 100,000 Austrian Swarovski crystals were used to create the sparkling snow scene.

Dates: Dec 9-24, 2022.
At: Symphony Hall, 75 N.
2nd: St. Phoenix, AZ 85004. More Info

Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker

Celebrating its 60th year in production, Ballet Austin’s performance is a Holiday favorite. Stephen Mills’ stunning choreography is set to Tchaikovsky’s classic score with live accompaniment from Austin Symphony Orchestra. An all-round delight.

Dates: Dec 3 - 23, 2022.
At: The Long Centre, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704, USA. More Info

Chelsea Penyak, The Nutcracker | City Ballet of San Diego

City Ballet of San Diego’s The Nutcracker

All ages promise to be captivated by Elizabeth Wistrich’s beautiful choreography in the production of the classic festive ballet. Get ready for grand sets and exquisite costumes as you are taken back to the magic of a bygone era.

Dates: Dec 21-23, 2022.
At: Concert Hall, California Center for the Arts, 340 N Escondido Blvd, Escondido. More Info

Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker has been performed in Atlanta since 1959. Now under the choreography of Yuri Possokhov, the production features state-of-the-art technology, lavish sets and costumes for a truly immersive experience.

Dates: Dec 9-26, 2022.
At: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339, USA. More Info

San Francisco Ballet’s The Nutcracker

An enchanting, color-filled production featuring elaborate costumes and spectacular moments like the snow-filled dance scene of the Snow King and Queen, this show will dazzle and delight the senses.

Dates: Dec 8–27, 2022.
At: War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102. More Info

Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker

Choreographer Mikko Nissinen takes audiences on a spellbinding Christmas Eve journey with awe-inspiring sets and elegant costumes. Full of theatrical splendor, and sublime and skillful dance performances, this is a show to delight all ages.

Dates: Nov 25-Dec 31.
At: Citizens Bank Opera House, 539 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111. More Info