This winter Northern Ballet‘s enchanting festive favourite, The Nutcracker, heads to Norwich Theatre Royal stage between 22 – 26 Nov, taking audiences on a sparkling adventure as one child‘s Christmas dreams come true.
In the midst of a festive party, as the fire crackles and the pile of presents grows ever higher, Clara is caught up in the warmth and excitement of Christmas and becomes enthralled by her new Nutcracker doll. But, as the clock strikes midnight, her Nutcracker is no ordinary toy. After saving her Nutcracker from the wily Mouse King, Clara is whisked away on the magical journey of a lifetime through a winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes and the famous Sugar Plum Fairy.
Choreographed and directed by former Artistic Director David Nixon CBE, The Nutcracker is set to the famous Tchaikovsky score played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia. The production features stunning Regency-style sets by Charles Cusick Smith with lighting by Mark Jonathan.
Director, Choreographer and Costume Designer David Nixon CBE, said: “The Nutcracker is not just a ballet, it is a tradition for many families and generations, a way of having shared memories at a time of year when togetherness turns to the fore.
“I believe that The Nutcracker offers the perfect festive escapism for every generation, a chance to revel in the child-like magic of Christmas.”
Rachael Gillespie Northern Ballet First Soloist, Clara, said: “The live music is beautiful, the costumes and sets are a real treat for the eyes, and the infectious energy from the dancers keeps the audience enjoying the production from beginning to end. It really sets you up for Christmas.“
As a part of Norwich Theatre‘s partnership with Northern Ballet, there is a fantastic range of extra activities to get involved with, including Northern Ballet Revealed. This gives you an insight into the life of a touring ballet company and is presented by former Northern Ballet Premier Dancer Pippa Moore MBE.
They will take you through how they bring a production to life and reveal secrets from behind the scenes. Attendees will also get a sneak peek at the costumes and props. They will then have the chance to watch the company dancers in their on stage ballet class as they warm up for the performance.
Wendy Ellis, Creative Programmes Director at Norwich Theatre said: “We were thrilled to work with our long-term partners, Northern Ballet and bring you the amazing festive treat The Nutcracker as well as unique opportunities to get behind the scenes and discover how a production like The Nutcracker goes on tour.”
