English National Ballet - The Nutcracker

A delightful treat for all the family

A tale of adventure and magic, The Nutcracker is one of the Christmas season's must-see shows and who better to perform this cherished classic than the English National Ballet. The production's beautiful dancing, sets, and costumes are made even more memorable by the impressive interiors of the Liverpool Empire.

Although based on a story written by E.T.A. Hoffman almost 200 years ago, the ballet version of the tale is best known for its beautiful orchestral compositions written by Tchaikovsky. The score to the English National Ballet's production will be performed by the English National Opera's orchestra.

What is The Nutcracker about?

On an enchanted Christmas Eve in Edwardian London, under the heavy boughs of the candlelit tree, a family party is in full swing. Whilst the adults mill about sedately, the children, led by Clara and her younger brother Freddie are full of hi-jinx and festive fun. Enter Herr Drosselmeyer, the children's godfather, who is eccentric but a talented toymaker. After dazzling the youngsters with his newest creations, he gifts Clara with a handmade nutcracker doll. Filled with jealousy, Freddie snatches it and manages to break its jaw, to Clara's dismay. Soon after, the party ends and the house settles down for the night.

At the stroke of midnight, Clara finds herself waking up under a colossal Christmas tree. Where is she? This land is cold, icy and full of snow. She is startled when a group of life-sized mice run past her brandishing weapons, only to be met with an army of tin soldiers - led by no other than her beloved Nutcracker.

Clara helps him defeat the Mouse King, and the pair board a hot air balloon that takes them across the frost-dusted London skyline from the glistening Land of Snow. Landing next to a magical puppet theatre, she is surprised and delighted as dancers from all over the world leap out to dance, and the glorious choreography and spectacle of the second act begins...