By: Mana Faye
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, continuing to draw audiences worldwide with its iconic choreography and timeless score. A holiday tradition beloved by children and adults alike, this production remains a dazzling spectacle of dance and storytelling.
Featuring a cast of 90 dancers from the American School of Ballet, 62 musicians, 40 stagehands, 150 costumes, and over 100 children, the production is a monumental collaboration. The unforgettable score, composed by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, brings this classic tale to life.
Based on The Nutcracker and the Mouse King (1816) by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the ballet tells the story of Clara, a young girl who receives a magical nutcracker from her mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer on Christmas Eve. As the night unfolds, Clara’s magical nutcracker comes to life, leading her on an enchanting adventure. Together, they battle the wicked Mouse King, traverse a snow-covered forest with dancing snowflakes, and journey to the Land of Sweets, where they meet the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy.
Opening night took place on November 29 at the iconic David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. The two-act performance runs 49 minutes for Act I and 41 minutes for Act II—time that seemed to fly by. The crowd was entertained by many sections of the ballet, including the tea section with crowd favorite KJ Takahashi, who wowed with powerful, gravity-defying jumps that made it seem as though he had springs hidden in his shoes. Each leap drew gasps and cheers from the audience, who were swept up in the sheer energy and joy of his performance.
This year’s production was particularly historic: Mira Nadon became the first Asian American female principal dancer at the New York City Ballet to perform the role of Dewdrop, following India Bradley, who made history last year as the first Black woman to dance the same role. Megan Fairchild and Joseph Gordon sparkled as the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, making for an unforgettable performance overall. The play ended with a standing ovation from the gleeful crowd, a wonderful conclusion to opening night of a beloved season.
Experience the magic of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker now through January 4 at Lincoln Center—a perfect way to welcome the holiday season.
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