Nutcracker - International Festival Ballet

It is a true musical (Christmas) classic and has been delighting young and old alike for many generations. Almost everyone knows the melodies, and the wonderful story based on E.T.A. Hoffmann's “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” is an unforgettable experience, not only for children. With its familiar music and magnificent classical choreography, this ballet fairy tale, which premiered in 1892, perfectly conveys the magic of winter and Christmas. Christmas Eve has arrived, and the family has gathered under the Christmas tree. Little Marie receives a nutcracker as a gift from her beloved godfather Drosselmayer. Thoughts of the wonderful gift accompany the girl as she falls asleep. She dreams of a battle between toy soldiers, led by the Nutcracker, and the Mouse King's army. With Marie's help, the Nutcracker wins the battle and transforms into a prince. Together with Marie, he travels to the Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy is hosting a grand celebration at the Sugar Castle. With interspersed Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian dances, appearances by Harlequin, Columbine, and other enchanting characters, “The Nutcracker” spreads a heartwarming, fairy-tale atmosphere.