It’s easy to take a city like Cincinnati for granted, especially if you’ve lived here your entire life (like most of us around here). But take a step back for a minute and think about all of the incredible opportunities children have here in the Queen City. We have the Cincinnati Museum Center, an award-winning zoo, exciting amusement parks, several smaller, interactive museums, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, and one perhaps you haven’t thought about for children – the Cincinnati Ballet. This is just a sampling of the excitement families can experience in our city, and this season, the Cincinnati Ballet should definitely move to the top of your list with The Nutcracker.
Our four-year-old daughter started taking dance classes this year and has since become very interested in all things ballet and tap. She’s always enjoyed bouncing around to music, but the admiration on her face when she sees a real ballerina in a book or on TV is pretty magical. So when we had the opportunity to get a sneak peek of Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker, I knew she would be in awe.
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. The Cincinnati Ballet takes this classic ballet and adds just enough modern and playful touches that everyone – from a seasoned ballet fan to a young child – will enjoy it from beginning to end. Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a magical holiday experience sure to excite and enchant everyone in your family!
I’ve seen The Nutcracker a few times before, but I have to say that this performance was my favorite. I love that I got to see incredibly inspired dancing, while my young daughter marveled at the beautiful costumes, whimsical sets, and lively performances. It’s surprisingly filled with laughs, along with athleticism, adorable young dancers, and even a cameo from a dancing Fiona the Hippo!
The Nutcracker itself is the perfect family holiday tradition, but to visit Music Hall this time of year is also particularly special. This incredible Cincinnati landmark is another thing we often take for granted, but be sure to take a minute and take in its historic beauty. And when you purchase tickets for the ballet, go ahead and make a day of it! Grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious restaurants nearby, and stop by Washington Park across the street for the lights and one of the festive events taking place throughout the season.
The Nutcracker has long been a holiday tradition, and we are so incredibly lucky to have our own Cincinnati Ballet bring it to life each year. If you’ve never been to the ballet as a family, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. This performance is very kid-friendly, there are dancers to meet before the show, and the entire experience is bound to be a Cincinnati memory you’ll never forget.
Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker has performances through Dec. 24 (there are still tickets available for the Dec. 24 matinee at 1 pm — what a beautiful way to spend Christmas Eve!). You can learn more about Cincinnati Ballet’s The Nutcracker and purchase tickets here. Also be sure to take a look at the other performances happening in the upcoming year, as there are more to come that the entire family will love!