The Nutcracker

We expect this performance to transport you from a traditional Victorian drawing room into a landscape of frost and magic. The choreography by Peter Wright, following the tradition of Lev Ivanov and Vincent Redmon, emphasizes the transition from a family celebration to a dreamlike realm. You will hear Tchaikovsky’s score, which remains one of the most recognisable in the classical canon. Listen for the distinct, bell-like quality of the celesta during the Sugar Plum Fairy’s solo and the sweeping, lyrical strings that define the waltzes in the second act. The evening is shaped around the journey of the young protagonist, moving through a battle between mice and soldiers before reaching the kingdom of sweets. The music shifts from the energetic bustle of the opening party to the rich, symphonic grandeur of the final dances, providing a clear narrative arc through the orchestral colours and rhythmic variety inherent in the original Russian score.

Birmingham Royal Ballet is based at the Birmingham Hippodrome and is widely recognised for its commitment to the classical heritage. The ensemble is celebrated for maintaining a large-scale touring presence across the United Kingdom, bringing detailed narrative works to life. In this production, Rosanna Ely performs the role of Clara. They are joined by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, an orchestra that is highly regarded for its specialism in providing live musical accompaniment for dance. The company’s reputation is built upon technical precision and a tradition of storytelling through movement, supported by a dedicated group of musicians.

The performance takes place at the Birmingham Hippodrome, located in the heart of Birmingham. With a total running time of 130 minutes, the production is well-suited if you are visiting the ballet for the first time or if you are looking for a concise evening out. As this is a narrative dance work, there is no spoken dialogue or singing, making the story accessible through visual and musical cues alone. There is no specific dress code for this venue, so you may wear what feels comfortable for a trip to the theatre.