Nutcracker

We are listening for the enduring magic of Tchaikovsky’s score, a work that remains a cornerstone of the ballet repertoire. In this production, you will hear the music performed live by the company’s own philharmonic orchestra, providing the essential rhythmic and melodic heartbeat for the dancers. The evening follows the traditional narrative arc but features new choreography by Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith. Listen for the distinct textures of the celesta during the Sugar Plum Fairy’s sequence and the sweeping woodwind and string passages that define the famous waltzes. The two-hour duration allows the story to unfold with focus, moving from the domestic warmth of the opening scenes into the more ethereal, dreamlike sequences of the second act. The collaboration between two different choreographers suggests a production that balances classical structure with contemporary perspectives on movement and characterisation.

English National Ballet is a prominent UK institution known for bringing high-calibre classical dance to a wide audience. Based in London, the company is celebrated for its technical precision and its ability to tour large-scale productions across the country. Accompanying the dancers is the English National Ballet Philharmonic, an orchestra dedicated to the specific demands of the ballet pit. They are recognised for their sympathetic interpretation of romantic scores, ensuring that the tempo and phrasing align perfectly with the physical demands on stage. This performance showcases the company's commitment to renewing the classics through new creative leadership.

This performance takes place at the London Coliseum, a grand and spacious venue well-suited to large-scale ballet. With a running time of 125 minutes, it is a manageable length for those new to the art form or for families wanting a traditional outing. The venue does not enforce a strict dress code, though many attendees choose smart-casual attire. As a non-verbal dance performance, there is no language barrier to consider. You should arrive in time to be seated before the orchestra begins the overture, as latecomer policies in this historic theatre can be quite restrictive.