Nutcracker

We are listening to Tchaikovsky’s celebrated score, brought to life by the English National Ballet Philharmonic. This production features new choreography by Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith, offering a fresh visual interpretation of a narrative that has become a cornerstone of the winter season. You will notice how the music moves from the delicate, tinkling sounds of the celesta in the famous solo variations to the sweeping, expansive textures of the full orchestral numbers. The evening is shaped by a transition from a domestic celebration to a fantastical realm, and you should listen for how the woodwinds and brass sections punctuate the rhythmic energy of the diverse character dances. The score remains one of the most melodic in the ballet repertoire, providing a continuous thread of familiar themes that guide you through the two acts. We invite you to pay close attention to the interaction between the live musicians in the pit and the movement on stage, as the tempo of the orchestra defines the physical expression of the dancers.

English National Ballet is a leading touring company known for bringing major classical works to a wide audience across the United Kingdom. Their home ground is often the London Coliseum, where they present large-scale productions that highlight the technical precision of their dancers. Accompanying them is the English National Ballet Philharmonic, an ensemble dedicated to the specific demands of performing live for dance. The company is recognised for maintaining the traditions of classical ballet while collaborating with contemporary figures like Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith to update the repertoire for modern sensibilities.

The performance takes place at the London Coliseum in London. With a running time of approximately 125 minutes, it is a substantial evening that fits well within the traditional expectations of a full-length ballet. The duration and the melodic nature of the music make it a suitable choice if you are visiting the ballet for the first time. There is no specific dress convention for this venue, though many attendees choose smart-casual attire. As a non-vocal work, there are no surtitles or language barriers to consider, making the story entirely accessible through movement and music.