The holidays have arrived in Cincinnati, and there is so much fun to be had! But if you have to pick just *one* holiday event to attend in Cincinnati, make it the Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Year after year, this holiday show continues to awe audiences of all ages with its beautiful dancing and memorable music.
The Nutcracker returns to Music Hall for 14 magical performances Dec.19-29, and tickets are available now! Here are 5 reasons you must experience Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker:
It’s timeless
Now in its 46th season, The Nutcracker is a timeless story with incredible music that most are familiar with, and it’s the perfect performance for children and adults of all ages. If you’ve never been to the ballet as a family, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
This performance is very kid-friendly: there are dancers to meet before the show; an intermission in the middle of the show; and the entire experience is bound to be a Cincinnati memory you’ll never forget.
Dancing #TeamFiona
Each year, the Cincinnati Ballet takes this beloved classic and makes it modern and fresh. In 2011, this production underwent a massive transformation, resulting revamped sets, stage effects and acrobatics. In recent years, there’s been the appearance of new, kid-friendly characters such as Clara’s pet poodle Minnie, dancing Cupcakes, tumbling Snowballs, and, as of 2018, #TeamFiona.
Last year, Cincinnati’s favorite hippo made her stage debut in The Nutcracker, and she’s returning for an encore this year! Fiona adds delightful humor and fun to this show, making it that much more accessible for kids.
The music is classic
The Nutcracker is perhaps best-known for its music, which has become a staple in holiday movies and playlists everywhere. Families will be enchanted by the Cincinnati Ballet dancers as they perform this beloved holiday classic — set to Tchaikovsky’s swoon-worthy score — with grace and beauty. Even the dancing hippo is elegant and poised!
Cincinnati Ballet + Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra = Magic.
It’s the perfect way to spend Christmas
While many holiday traditions are well underway, The Nutcracker opens just in time for Christmas. There are 14 shows Dec. 19-29, including a family-friendly matinee on Christmas Eve. There are also a handful of shows after Christmas.
And for mega-fans, don’t miss the Nutcracker Luncheon in Music Hall’s “Land of Sweets” on Dec. 21. This holiday event features a delicious, kid-friendly spread and the chance to dine with all your favorite characters! Photo opportunities and memories await — get your tickets to the Nutcracker Luncheon today!
Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a memorable family experience
The Nutcracker itself is the perfect family holiday tradition, and to visit Music Hall this time of year is also particularly special. We are so incredibly lucky to have our own Cincinnati Ballet bring this holiday classic to life each year.Â
The Nutcracker is a classic holiday tale that follows the imaginative story of Clara, a little girl who embarks on a dreamy journey after she receives a nutcracker as a gift on Christmas Eve. With her Nutcracker Prince, Clara travels through the Land of Sweets, meeting colorful and exciting characters along the way.
The Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker is a magical, only-in-Cincinnati experience your family will remember long after the final curtain falls.