Synopsis

A classical ballet in two acts, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s tale of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King (1816).

Act I

Clara and Fritz Stahlbaum greet guests at their parents’ Christmas party. Clara’s godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, arrives with a special gift: a magical wooden Nutcracker. Clara is in the living room when the clock strikes midnight, and giant mice fill the room and attack her. Her valiant Nutcracker comes to life and commands an army of toy soldiers. After defeating the Rat King, the Nutcracker transforms into a handsome prince. The Prince turns the Stahlbaums’ mansion into the Land of Snow and takes Clara into the Kingdom of Sweets.

Act II

Clara and the Nutcracker Prince arrive in the Kingdom of Sweets where the cooks prepare delightful treats. They are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and are entertained by a Spanish Dance, a Chinese Dance, an Arabian Dance, the Dance of the Mirlitons, a Dance with Madame Bonbonaire and her children, a Russian Dance and the Waltz of the Flowers. As the celebration draws to a close, Clara awakens from her dreams to be met by Herr Drosselmeyer.

This performance is approximately two hours, including one 20-minute intermission.