Clara & The Nutcracker

We are set to hear the familiar and evocative melodies of Tchaikovsky’s most famous score in this performance. The music serves as the foundation for a story that has become a staple of the winter season, blending rhythmic energy with lyrical woodwind passages and lush string arrangements. As this is a condensed thirty-minute presentation, you can expect a fast-paced journey through the essential highlights of the work. We suggest listening for the distinct instrumental colours that Tchaikovsky uses to define the various characters and settings, from the delicate celesta to the vibrant brass sections. The evening is shaped to showcase how live orchestral music and movement interact to tell a narrative without words. It provides a focused opportunity to experience the core elements of the ballet's musical identity in a brief but intensive format, capturing the specific festive atmosphere that this score is renowned for across the globe.

Northern Ballet brings this production to the stage, an ensemble recognised for its distinctive approach to narrative dance and its strong touring presence across the United Kingdom. Joining them is the BBC Concert Orchestra, a versatile group known for its broad range of recordings and broadcast performances. The orchestra regularly performs across a diverse spectrum of genres, providing a reliable and professional live accompaniment for major staged works. Together, these two organisations represent a significant collaboration between a specialist dance company and one of the country's most frequently heard broadcast ensembles.

The performance takes place at the Schwarzman Centre in Oxford. With a running time of approximately thirty minutes, this event is particularly well-suited to those who prefer a shorter evening or anyone attending a ballet for the first time. The brief duration makes it an accessible choice for a variety of schedules. We advise you that no specific dress code has been provided for this venue, so smart-casual attire is generally appropriate. As the performance is entirely told through dance and Tchaikovsky's score, there is no spoken dialogue or requirement for surtitles.