Clara’s Christmas dream unfolds in Edwardian London with dance, magic, and Tchaikovsky’s score.
Set in Edwardian London, this Nutcracker opens on Christmas Eve as young Clara visits Drosselmeyer’s Sweets & Delights Emporium and receives a magical Nutcracker doll. That night, her dream takes her from a battle with the Rat King to an icy realm and the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy hosts a celebration in her honour.
English National Ballet’s festive staging is choreographed by Artistic Director Aaron S. Watkin and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith, with designs by Dick Bird and live music by the English National Ballet Philharmonic. A cast of over 100 dancers and musicians brings Tchaikovsky’s score and the story to life.
Premiered in 2024, this acclaimed production returns to the London Coliseum for the 2025/2026 season. Described as “astoundingly pretty” (Evening Standard) and “a vibrant new Nutcracker” (Financial Times), it includes relaxed, family-friendly, and audio-described performances.
