Fun Facts About the Nutcracker Ballet (credit: Salt Creek Ballet)
- The Nutcracker celebrated its 130th Anniversary in 2022 having first been performed on December 18th, 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg.
- The first full-length performance of The Nutcracker in the United States was in 1944 by the San Francisco Opera Ballet.
- Composer Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky used the newly invented celesta as the instrument featured in the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
- In Germany, it is believed that a nutcracker brings protection and good luck, therefore it became a popular children’s gift during Christmas.
The Art Deco Nutcracker
The Athenaeum - Dec. 7
Set in 1920s America, Alexei Kremnev’s one-of-a-kind “The Art Deco Nutcracker,” featuring Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, is a fresh, yet traditional take on the beloved holiday favorite with costume and set design inspired by the unique sophistication of the Art Deco era.
Ballet Chicago’s The Nutcracker
The Athenaeum - Dec. 13 through Dec. 15
Harris Theater - Dec. 20 through Dec. 22
Celebrate your favorite holiday tradition with young Marie as she travels from her home on Christmas Eve to the enchanting Kingdom of Snow and the charming Land of Sweets through timeless choreography, beautiful music, and stunning visuals.
Beyond the Nutcracker
The Athenaeum - Nov. 30 through Dec. 1
A classic holiday tradition with a Ballet 5:8 twist comes to Chicago this season. Join Emma and Uncle Abrahms as they embark on a miraculous journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about. Immerse yourself in the magical choreography of Ballet 5:8 Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, featuring the professional artists of Ballet 5:8
Pre-show Tea on the 30th
Join the cast of Beyond the Nutcracker for tea on November 30th. You will have a chance to meet the cast and enjoy refreshments and festivities before the performance. An additional ticket is required for this event.
Do-It-Yourself Nutcracker
River Park - Dec. 15, 3pm-4pm
Join us for this magical event! Join our student dancers on stage for a re-telling of this holiday classic where you become the star. Wear your tights, slippers, and holiday finest for this unique and fun-filled interactive holiday dance event.
Duke It Out Nutcracker
Music Institute of Chicago - Dec. 7, 11am
This unique Nutcracker production pits the classical (Tchaikovsky) and jazz (Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn) versions of the holiday favorite in a side-by-side showdown. Curated by Dance Chicago, the program features members of Braeburn Brass and Music Institute of Chicago ensemble-in-residence Quintet Attacca. The performance is family-friendly 60 minutes with an instrument petting zoo at 10am in the lobby.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
Cadillac Palace Theater - Dec. 10 through Dec. 15
A holiday mash-up for the whole family, The Hip Hop Nutcracker returns for another spectacular tour. Just like the original, Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince go on a dream adventure battling a gang of mice, visiting the land of sweets and learning the lessons of the holiday season. Innovative digital graffiti and visuals transform the landscape of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s beloved story from traditional 19th Century Germany to the vibrant, diverse sights and sounds of contemporary New York City.
MPA Nutcracker Treats and Twirls
Momentum Performing Arts - Dec. 14, 1:15pm-2:45pm
The Nutcracker
Hyde Park School of Dance - Dec. 13 - Dec. 15
The temps may be dropping, but don't worry: Hyde Park School of Dance is about to bring the heat! Grab tickets before they're gone to come see their mice and soldiers battle to the beat - and all the beautiful ballet before and after, too!
Nutcracker! Magic of Christmas Ballet
The Rosemont Theater - Dec. 8, 2pm and 6pm
Gather friends and family to re-live your fondest childhood dreams, overflowing with larger-than-life puppets, breath-taking acrobatics and dazzling ostumes. Experience the exquisite artistry of the international cast, featuring stars of Ukraine ballet, performing at the highest level of classical technique.
The Nutcracker Suite: Clara's Enchanted Holiday Tea Party
Epiphany Center for the Arts - Dec. 15
Join us for VOLTA’s 2nd Annual Nutcracker Suite, where Clara’s adventure comes alive in a whimsical holiday tea party. This enchanting performance is more than just a show—it’s a beloved holiday tradition filled with interactive fun for all ages. Enjoy an immersive holiday tea party surrounded by beloved Nutcracker characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse Queen. Guests are invited to wear their most festive attire, indulge in sweet delights from the Land of the Sweets, and celebrate the spirit of the season in an atmosphere that’s pure holiday magic
Salt Creek Ballet's The Nutcracker
Northshore Center for the Performing Arts - Dec. 6-7
Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker marches back onto the North Shore Center stage with an affordable full-length holiday production performed in the grand tradition by a professional company with exceptional guest soloists! For a holiday production that first delighted audiences way back in 1892, Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker demonstrates how to make this historic ballet and holiday tradition just as accessible and relevant today. The Nutcracker is the perfect way to introduce young children to the power and beauty of classical dance.
