This Christmas, English National Ballet will present its acclaimed production of (newly named) Nutcracker as a national tour culminating in London, from 23 November 2016 – 7 January 2017. This follows 2015 which saw English National Ballet’s most successful Nutcracker run on record. It is estimated over 73,000 audiences members saw the festive production at the London Coliseum, so this year Wayne Eagling’s version of the iconic work will be seen on tour also.
Part of English National Ballet’s ethos is to provide as many people as possible with great ballet, highlighted by the decision to tour the production in 2016. This continues the Company’s tradition of presenting a Nutcracker production every year since 1950, its founding year, this year taking it further afield. The production will visit the Milton Keynes Theatre (23 November – 26 November) and the Liverpool Empire (29 November – 3 December). Following these regional visits the company will return to the London Coliseum (14 December 2016 – 7 January 2017).
English National Ballet’s version of the classic ballet sets the scene on Christmas Eve in Edwardian London. Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker doll discover a magical world where she battles with the Mouse King and meets a handsome stranger. Clara and her Nutcracker then take a hot air balloon ride across London to the glistening Land of Snow where her adventure begins. The production is brought to life by the well-known Tchaikovsky score featuring the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Waltz of the Flowers.
To coincide with Nutcracker, English National Ballet will host a range of workshops and events, aimed to provide a pathway into the world of ballet. Activities held in Milton Keynes, Liverpool, and London include on-stage workshops for all ages, Live Drawing, Family Events, and Behind-the-scenes Talks.