Why See The Nutcracker?
Christmas ShowsBalletFamily ShowsDance & BalletThe Nutcracker
all new production
A tale of adventure and magic, The Nutcracker is one of the Christmas season's must-see shows and who better to perform this cherished classic than the English National Ballet? Back with a brand new production for 2024 with choreography by the company's Artistic Director, Aaron S. Watkin, and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith, be prepared to fall in love with The Nutcracker all over again when it steps into the London Coliseum from December 12th!
Although based on a story written by E.T.A. Hoffman almost 200 years ago, the ballet version of the tale is best known for its beautiful orchestral compositions written by Tchaikovsky, which will be played live by the English National Ballet Orchestra.
WHAT IS THE NUTCRACKER ABOUT?
On an enchanted Christmas Eve in Edwardian London, under the heavy boughs of the candlelit tree, a family party is in full swing. Whilst the adults mill about sedately, the children, led by Clara and her younger brother Freddie are full of hi-jinx and festive fun. Enter Herr Drosselmeyer, the children's godfather, who is eccentric but a talented toymaker. After dazzling the youngsters with his newest creations, he gifts Clara with a handmade nutcracker doll. Filled with jealousy, Freddie snatches it and manages to break its jaw, to Clara's dismay. Soon after, the party ends and the house settles down for the night.
At the stroke of midnight, Clara finds herself waking up under a colossal Christmas tree. Where is she? This land is cold, icy and full of snow. She is startled when a group of life-sized mice run past her brandishing weapons, only to be met with an army of tin soldiers - led by no other than her beloved Nutcracker.
Clara helps him defeat the Mouse King, and the pair board a hot air balloon that takes them across the frost-dusted London skyline from the glistening Land of Snow. Landing next to a magical puppet theatre, she is surprised and delighted as dancers from all over the world leap out to dance, and the glorious choreography and spectacle of the second act begins.
Additional Information
Dates
Opening night: 12 December 2024
Audience
Best for age 5+. Under 5s not permitted at most performances
Run time
Two hours 15 minutes including one interval
Cast and Creative
Creative
Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Choreography by Wayne Eagling
Based on a concept by Toer van Schayk and Wayne Eagling
Design by Peter Farmer
Lighting by David Richardson
What we thought
FESTIVE wonder Beauty
There is no Christmas event like seeing the English National Ballet take on a property as treasured as The Nutcracker
Upon taking your seat in the opulence of the auditorium of the London Coliseum, it would be forgiven to say that you'll already be transported to a world of fantasy and spectacle, long before the orchestra even begins tuning.
Read full review
Kitty Mccarron
What you thought
1 reviews, average rating: (5.0 Stars)
Linda Hoskins : “Wonderful Show ”
I took my disabled daughter who loves the ballet, this is her first visit... more
Nearby
Venue home
Location
DiningRestaurants
Hotels
Additional Information
Spread the word
Sound good to you? Share this page on social media and let your friends know about The Nutcracker at London Coliseum.
Keep up to date
I want email news and updates for events in my area! Read how we protect your data.
Please note: The term London Coliseum and/or The Nutcracker as well as all associated graphics, logos, and/or other trademarks, tradenames or copyrights are the property of the London Coliseum and/or The Nutcracker and are used herein for factual descriptive purposes only. We are in no way associated with or authorized by the London Coliseum and/or The Nutcracker and neither that entity nor any of its affiliates have licensed or endorsed us to sell tickets, goods and or services in conjunction with their events.