Nutcracker

We are listening to Tchaikovsky’s enduring 1892 score, a work that defines the sound of the festive season through its shimmering celesta, driving percussion, and rich string textures. While the music remains a constant, you will see a fresh choreographic interpretation of this classic narrative. This specific production is the result of a creative collaboration between Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith. The evening is structured around the transition from a traditional domestic celebration into a dreamlike winter landscape, then onwards to a series of character dances. We suggest you listen for the English National Ballet Philharmonic’s treatment of the famous divertissements in the second act, where the woodwinds and brass take a prominent role. The score moves from the intimate tinkling of the Sugar Plum Fairy’s theme to the expansive, sweeping melodies of the final waltzes. It is a programme designed to highlight both the technical precision of the dancers and the symphonic scale of the music, providing a cohesive arc that spans from midnight mystery to bright, energetic morning.

English National Ballet is one of the United Kingdom’s primary touring dance companies, renowned for bringing large-scale classical works to wide audiences. They are based in London but maintain a significant national presence. For this production, the company is joined in the pit by the English National Ballet Philharmonic. This dedicated orchestra is known for its expertise in supporting the specific rhythmic and tempo needs of live dance. The choreography is shared between Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith, combining established classical perspectives with contemporary sensibilities to refresh this traditional winter staple.

The performance takes place at the London Coliseum, a grand and historic venue in the heart of London. The total running time is approximately 125 minutes, which includes intervals. This duration and the familiar nature of the music make the evening a suitable choice if you are attending a full-length ballet for the first time. There is no specific dress code required for the Coliseum, though many attendees choose smart-casual attire. As a non-vocal work, there are no surtitles or language requirements to consider during the show.