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The ultimate theater performance to set the scene this Christmas? The ballet, The Nutcracker – we round up the top ...
Top 10 Nutcracker Performances
The classic tale of 'The Nutcracker' is a quintessential holiday story and a much-beloved performance that embodies Christmas joy. Adapted from the 1816 book, ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’ by Gothic writer E.T.A. Hoffman, the narrative follows a young girl’s magical adventure with her toy Nutcracker on Christmas Eve. Danced to Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s well-renowned and magical score, the story features fantastical lands, heroic battles, and a host of interesting characters such as the Nutcracker Prince, Herr Drosselmeyer, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Snow Queen. We’ve compiled a list of the best performances of this enchanting tale for you to see this holiday!
New York City Ballet – George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
Celebrating their 75th anniversary, the Ballet performs their elegant and timeless Nutcracker that has become one of the most popular in the country. Full of splendid sets and gorgeous costumes, this magical adaptation is a spectacle to behold.
Dates: Nov 24 – 31 Dec, 2023.
At: New York City Ballet, David H. Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023.
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Joffrey Ballet, Chicago – Christopher Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker
Follow Marie's Christmas adventure as she takes part in action-packed battles, stunning dance sequences, and joyous reunions. Blending the classic tale with the backdrop of the 1893 Chicago World Fair, the Tony-award winner choreographs a memorable and imaginative performance that the whole family will enjoy.
Dates: Dec 2 – 27, 2023.
At: Lyric Opera House, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606.
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Alexander Iziliaev, courtesy Philadelphia Ballet
Philadelphia Ballet – George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
Featuring a diverse cast from all backgrounds and ages in resplendent costumes, this unforgettable rendition of Balanchine’s show summons memories of childhood imagination and cozy Christmas evenings.
Dates: Dec 8 – 30, 2023.
At: Academy of Music, 240 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102.
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San Francisco Ballet – Helgi Tomasson’s The Nutcracker
Tomasson’s performance features a huge cast of over 150 dancers (fun fact – 1,200 pointe shoes are used during their Nutcracker season!) and is an enchanting production full of splendour and delightful sets.
Dates: Dec 13 – 30, 2023.
At: War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102.
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Ballet Arizona – Ib Andersen’s The Nutcracker
Don’t miss Ib Andersen’s magical production, featuring intricate designs and captivating choreography, as the famous choreographer steps away in the summer of 2024. This riveting performance guarantees an evening of joy and wonder!
Dates: Dec 8 – 24, 2023.
At: Phoenix Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.
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Atlanta Ballet – Yuri Possokhov’s The Nutcracker
Magic comes to life and childhood wonder is explored through the opulent costumes and sumptuous sets of Possokhov’s production, as state-of-the art technology and traditional stage magic are combined in this stunning show.
Dates: Dec 8 – 26, 2023.
At: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galeria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339.
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Houston Ballet – Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker
Celebrate the holiday season with Stanton Welch’s splendid performance, featuring vibrant costumes and elaborate sets that evoke the sweetness and warmth of Christmastime.
Dates: : Nov 24 – Dec 27, 2023.
At: Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Avenue, TX 77002.
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American Ballet Theatre – Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker
With sets and costumes designed by Tony-winner Richard Hudson, audiences will be entranced and delighted by this production as it follows the magical journey of Clara through larger-than-life scenery and glittering costumes.
Dates: Dec 8 – 17, 2023.
At: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center DR, Costa Mensa, CA 92626.
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The Washington Ballet – Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker
The timeless story is reimagined within the heart of the nation and features a striking George Washington-inspired Nutcracker who battles against the evil Rat King, and wondrous dances against the mesmerizing backdrop of the theatre.
Dates: Dec 2 – 30, 2023.
At: Warner Theatre, Columbia Square, 513 13th St. NW, Washington, DC 20004.
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Boston Ballet – Mikko Nissinen’s The Nutcracker
A captivating performance featuring sumptuous stage props and lavish costumes, the Boston Ballet captures the wonder of Christmas in a show that is sure to dazzle and delight audiences of all ages.
Dates: Nov 24 – Dec 31, 2023.
At: Citizen's Bank Opera House, 539 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111.
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