Nutcracker

We expect this performance to provide a balance between the familiar and the new. You will hear Tchaikovsky’s famous score played live, encompassing the well-known melodies of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the sweeping orchestral movements that define the winter season. The evening is shaped by the creative partnership of Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith, who have developed this new production to revitalise the traditional narrative. While the central story remains a staple of the repertoire, you should listen for how the English National Ballet Philharmonic brings out the specific textures and rhythmic drive of the original music. The choreography aims to maintain the classical foundations of the work while introducing a contemporary sense of energy and movement. It is an opportunity to experience a core piece of the ballet canon through a modern lens, focusing on clear storytelling and a vibrant visual presentation of the festive setting.

English National Ballet is one of the United Kingdom’s leading dance companies, frequently performing at their home base in the capital and across the country. They are recognised for their ability to combine high-level classical technique with innovative new staging. For this production, the dancers are joined by the English National Ballet Philharmonic, their dedicated orchestra known for specialising in the demands of the ballet repertoire. The creative direction comes from Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith, who bring their collective experience in international dance to this fresh interpretation of a seasonal classic.

This performance takes place at the London Coliseum, a historic and large-scale venue in the heart of the city. With a running time of approximately 125 minutes, it is a manageable length for families or those visiting the ballet for the first time. The production is a standard choice for those looking for a traditional seasonal outing. As is common with large London theatres, there is no formal dress code, though many attendees choose smart-casual attire. You are advised to arrive in good time to navigate the venue's multiple levels before the orchestra begins.