Main content

The Nutcracker from the Royal Ballet

Christmas comes to life in this magical production from ballet legend Sir Peter Wright, delighting a packed audience at Covent Garden鈥檚 Royal Opera House.

Christmas comes to life in this enchanting production from ballet legend Sir Peter Wright, delighting a packed audience at Covent Garden鈥檚 Royal Opera House.

This seasonal classic is a dazzling showcase, following magician Herr Drosselmeyer鈥檚 quest to save his nephew, Hans-Peter, who has been transformed into a nutcracker doll by the wicked Queen of the Mice. The only way to break the spell is for the Nutcracker to defeat the Mouse King and find a girl to love and care for him. A flicker of hope comes to Drosselmeyer at the Stahlbaum鈥檚 Christmas party in the form of his goddaughter, Clara. With a swish of Drosselmeyer鈥檚 cape and a little bit of magic, a cosy festive gathering turns into a marvellous adventure.

Created by Sir Peter Wright for the company in 1984, this definitive staging has become a treasured part of the Royal Ballet and Opera鈥檚 Christmas tradition. Celebrated for its breathtaking choreography, stunning period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman and the unmatched magic of Tchaikovsky鈥檚 score, this production captures all the wonder and warmth of the festive season.

Available now

1 hour, 37 minutes

Last on

Christmas Day 2025 11:25

Credits

Role Contributor
Conductor Andrew Litton
The Sugar Plum Fairy Anna Rose O'Sullivan
The Prince Marcelino Sambe
Herr Drosselmeyer Thomas Whitehead
Clara Sophie Allnatt
Hans-Peter/The Nutcracker Leo Dixon
Director Peter Jones
Producer Anthoula Syndica-Drummond

Broadcast

Featured in...