Nutcracker

We are introduced to a fresh perspective on Tchaikovsky’s most famous ballet, featuring new choreography by Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith. The performance moves from the domestic warmth of a festive party into a vivid dreamscape where toys find their own life. You will hear the English National Ballet Philharmonic perform the complete score, which is celebrated for its inventive use of orchestral colour. Listen for the celesta during the Sugar Plum Fairy’s sequence, providing its distinctive shimmering quality, alongside the expansive woodwind sections that guide the snow-themed sequences. This production balances the familiar structure of the traditional story with a contemporary choreographic vocabulary, focusing on the fluidity and technical precision of the ensemble. The evening is shaped by the transition from intimate character moments to grand, classical formations, culminating in the intricate series of dances that define the final act.

English National Ballet is a cornerstone of the British dance scene, known for maintaining a high technical standard while commissioning new creative voices. Based in London, they frequently tour internationally but hold a regular residency at this venue. They are joined by the English National Ballet Philharmonic, a specialist orchestra dedicated to providing live musical accompaniment for the stage. This collaboration ensures that the movement and the music remain closely synchronised. The company is recognised for its diverse roster of dancers and its ability to stage both historic classics and innovative new works.

This performance takes place at the London Coliseum, a historic theatre in the heart of the city. The ballet runs for approximately 125 minutes, including an interval, making it a standard length for an evening out. As a narrative work with a well-known score, it is an accessible choice if you are attending a ballet for the first time. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many guests opt for smart-casual attire. You should note that as a dance production, the storytelling is entirely visual and musical, so no surtitles are required.