‘Tis the season! Here’s where you can see the Nutcracker this December in the UK.

A festive icon, Christmas simply wouldn’t be the same without it. That’s right, we’re of course talking about the Nutcracker ballet. Although it comes every year, audiences have never gotten tired of Tchaikovsky’s delightfully magical score and the timeless tale of a young girl swept away to a land of Christmas, sweets and all things sparkly and wonderful. The perfect festive outing for the entire family, here’s where to see the Nutcracker around the UK this year.

Snow scene in the Nutcracker ballet.

- © Igor Bulgarin / Shutterstock

The Royal Ballet, London (and nationally, live in cinemas!)

A timeless staple of the UK’s most prestigious ballet company, the Peter Wright production has been part of the repertoire since 1984. Complete with epic, larger-than-life sets and props, this production is an explosive festive celebration. It’s an unbeatable classic, performed in the stunning Royal Opera House in the very heart of Covent Garden. The show runs for about 2 hours and 20 minutes, with one interval, and please note that children under 5 are not admitted to the performance. Find out more about booking your tickets here

And for those who can’t make it to the Opera House, fret not, The Royal Ballet’s the Nutcracker comes live to cinemas throughout the UK, and you can find out more about that here.

Northern Ballet, Leeds

Staged at the Grand Theatre in Leeds, this production of the Nutcracker takes audiences on a true journey through a magical world. With its shimmering sets and costumes, the impulse to get up on that stage and be part of that enchanting world is almost too strong to resist. The production, headed by David Nixon, is the perfect festive treat for the entire family. You can find out more about booking tickets to see the show here.

Birmingham Royal Ballet, Birmingham

The Birmingham Royal Ballet’s epic production of the Nutcracker takes audiences through another dreamy rendition of the story. With a 2 hour and 10 minute runtime, viewers have time to settle into the magical universe and get sucked into the beauty of what they are witnessing. The show is being staged at the Birmingham Hippodrome, making for an ideal festive outing for anyone located in the Birmingham area. Find out more about the production and booking your tickets here.

English National Ballet, London

A fantastic alternative to the Royal Ballet’s production, the English National Ballet’s the Nutcracker shimmers. From the staging to the choreography, without forgetting the excellent work done by the immensely talented dancers, the show is unmissable and an utter Christmas treat! Be on the lookout for the hot air balloon that makes an appearance in the show, much to spectator’s delight! The show is staged at the London Coliseum, you can find out more about booking tickets here

Editor's note!

If you’re in the mood for something a little different this festive season, why not try the Scottish Ballet’s new show, Cinders. A delightful new twist on the classic tale of Cinderella, the show is a sparkling winter treat. The company tours all over Scotland, making it convenient for anyone in the country. You can find out more about the show and booking your tickets here.

by Editorial Team
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