Nutcracker

We are introduced to a fresh interpretation of this seasonal staple, featuring new choreography by Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith. You will hear the complete Tchaikovsky score, which remains the backbone of the performance, delivered by a live orchestra. The evening is shaped by the familiar transition from a domestic festive gathering into a dreamlike sequence of divertissements. You should listen for the delicate, tinkling textures of the celesta during the Sugar Plum Fairy’s solo and the broad, sweeping orchestral swells of the final waltz. The production balances the intimate domesticity of the opening scenes with the expansive, technical demands of the second act. We expect a focus on rhythmic precision in the battle sequences and a fluid, lyrical approach to the famous floral movements. The presence of the English National Ballet Philharmonic ensures that the musical narrative is given as much weight as the movement on stage, providing a rich acoustic experience to match the visual storytelling.

English National Ballet is a prominent touring company known for its technical versatility and commitment to making high-level dance accessible to wide audiences. Based in London, they frequently perform at major venues across the capital and the UK. For this production, the company is joined by their own English National Ballet Philharmonic, an ensemble dedicated to the specialized requirements of providing live music for dance. The collaboration between Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith brings together different choreographic perspectives to reimagine this classic work for the company’s current roster of dancers.

This performance takes place at the London Coliseum, a grand venue well-suited to large-scale ballet. With a running time of approximately 125 minutes, it is a substantial evening out but remains a popular choice for those new to the art form due to the familiarity of the music and the clear narrative arc. As a ballet, the story is told entirely through movement and music without spoken dialogue. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many patrons choose smart-casual attire for a festive outing in December.