The arrival of The Nutcracker heralds the Christmas season on stages the world over, but we dare say no production of this beloved ballet is more charming than that of The Royal Ballet, credited to Sir Peter Wright.
Every last detail in this production is a delight: Tchaikovsky's glorious music, Julia Trevelyan Oman's sumptuous designs, Sir Peter Wright's meticulous narrative, a touch of mystery and magic, and, of course, The Royal Ballet's transporting dancing, from the highest principals to the guest children who animate the party in Act I.
The story is well known: given a nutcracker doll by her godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, at her family's Christmas Eve party, Clara, a young girl on the verge of adolescence, dreams of travelling to a magic land accompanied by the now-human nutcracker. There, the pair watch and join in a variety of divertissements, culminating in the famous Sugar Plum Fairy pas de deux.
With so many performances scheduled, there are plenty of opportunities for both principals and up-and-coming soloists to show their mettle. On opening night the Sugar Plum Fairy pas de deux will be performed by two of The Royal Ballet's most expressive principals: Fumi Kaneko and William Bracewell.
The Royal Ballet's The Nutcracker is one of the most in-demand Christmas shows in London; so early booking is advisable.
For guidance, find Culture Whisper's ★★★★★ review of last year's performance here.
| What | The Royal Ballet, The Nutcracker 2023, ROH |
| Where | Royal Opera House, Bow Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD | MAP |
| Nearest tube | Covent Garden (underground) |
| When |
06 Dec 23 – 13 Jan 24, Eves at 19:30 or 19:00. Plenty of mats (consult website). Dur.: 2 hours 20 mins inc one interval |
| Price | £8-£160 |
| Website | https://www.roh.org.uk/tickets-and-events/the-nutcracker-by-peter-wright-dates |
