The Nutcracker Returns: Our Twist On A Timeless Christmas Tradition 🎄✨

There's something undeniably enchanting about The Nutcracker ballet. Its simple story, combined with Tchaikovsky's unforgettable score, has made it a beloved holiday tradition for generations. At BA Studios, we're all about blending the old with the new...and that's no different with our production of The Nutcracker Returns.

You might have seen a couple hundred Nutcracker ballets and know the story by heart. This is our addition to that original story. Pretend the Nutcracker has returned to us today in our modern time. What would that Christmas party look like? What new evil haunts Clara’s dreams now? Would the Land of Sweets still look the same? Our production blends the beautiful elements of the traditional ballet with a little modern twist.

Lets review the beautiful traditional version of The Nutcracker...

⭐️ A Whimsical Tale

At its core, the Nutcracker is a fairytale that follows young Clara on a magical Christmas Eve adventure. When a mysterious gift, a nutcracker, transforms into a prince, she embarks on a thrilling journey through a world filled with enchanted toys, dancing sweets, and the Sugar Plum Fairy.

⭐️ The Music That Enchants

Tchaikovsky's music is the heart and soul of the The Nutcracker ballet. From the playful "March of the Children" to the dreamy "Waltz of the Snowflakes," every note transports you to a world of wonder. The iconic "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" is a highlight, showcasing the ballerina's grace and technical brilliance.

⭐️ A Visual Spectacle

Beyond the music and story, the Nutcracker is a visual feast. Elaborate costumes, stunning sets, and creative choreography bring the characters and scenes to life. The transformation from a cozy Christmas Eve to a magical kingdom is a breathtaking spectacle.

⭐️ A Family Affair

One of the greatest things about the Nutcracker is its ability to captivate audiences of all ages. Children are mesmerized by the colorful characters and fantastical elements, while adults appreciate the artistry and nostalgia. It's a perfect opportunity to introduce young ones to the world of ballet and classical music.

🤩🎄🍬 Now Our Modern Twist:

Our story begins on Christmas Eve....in our time! As we open our show we want you to feel as if you're in the heart of New York city watching the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. We take you into the home of 'Clara' for her family's Christmas Eve party. Her rascal sibling torments her with not toy soldiers, but a villain well known in our times. #IYKYK

Uncle D (our Uncle Drosselmeyer) arrives with gifts a plenty and his dancing dolls. Kissing doll? No, a Christmas barbie look alike and GI Jane looking soldier doll, of course!

As night falls and Clara drifts to sleep, a new battle begins as Nutcracker comes to life to protect Clara. Did the Mouse King invade? Nope! Try again! A new villain has taken over her nightmares.

Her now very human Nutcracker Prince sweeps her off her feet to the Land of Sweets. They meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and all the other characters from around the world. Here is where we like to incorporate a heavier focus on the the traditional works of The Nutcracker ballet, but we do add a little jazz, contemporary, and hip hop to spruce up our Land of Sweets. 🍬

Clara eventually wakes from her dream on Christmas Day to find her family enjoying the calm morning filled with joy and presents. And who is it that knocks on her door? Well, it's Uncle D of course, and his friend who has a striking resemblance to the Nutcracker Prince! 💖

Was it real? Was it a dream? We may never know for sure...

See you this December for The Nutcracker Returns!