Getting the email of “You are invited to press night for Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker” will brighten anyone’s day. Since its world premiere in 2012, Mikko Nissinen and Robert Perdziola’s re-envisioned production has been delighting audiences and critics alike.
There is truly no better way to kick start your holiday spirit than by going downtown, seeing the tree lit in the Boston Common, and making your way down Washington Street where all the archways are decked out in sparkling strung lights, and finally entering the Boston Opera House to watch THE NUTCRACKER.
This ballet captivates, from start to finish, and does an amazing job of encompassing the libretto by Alexandre Dumas père titled The Tale of the Nutcracker.
We loved following the story of Clara Silberhaus and Herr Drosselmeier throughout the ballet. Every move they gracefully made across the stage demonstrated their skill and passion. The Party Scene of Act I can only be described as whimsical and enchanting. We loved how it led into the Nutcracker Prince’s transformation. It’s truly amazing how the cast moves so light on their feet yet are so precise with their turns.
Act II kept us at the edge of our seat – the cast’s emotions poured out into the audience as they danced through the festivities that commenced in Clara’s honor. We loved the cast, costumes, effects (yes, there’s snow), and the scenery. Every part of the stage was perfectly thought out and executed. The Nutcracker is a holiday ballet inviting to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Boston Ballet in Mikko Nissinen’s The Nutcracker; photo by Liza Voll, courtesy of Boston Ballet
The Nutcracker takes place at the Boston Opera House (539 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111). It runs from November 29th to December 30th. Tickets start at $37. For more information, visit bostonballet.org/nutcracker or call 617.695.6955.
The Nutcracker performance length is approximately 2 hours including one intermission. Make sure you get there early so you can walk around the Boston Opera House and enjoy the scenic holiday display.