There’s a reason why The Nutcracker is a worldwide family favourite. Not only does it scream Christmas, it’s also bursting with magic and packed with some of the most famous music ever written, still used all over the world today. Cue the Sugar Plum Fairy.
I had never seen The Nutcracker performed live before, and the last time I watched any version was the classic Barbie Nutcracker film (if you know, you know). So, I was excited to finally experience Birmingham Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Royal Albert Hall.
Sir Peter Wright’s production tells the story of young Clara, who on Christmas Eve receives a Nutcracker doll that magically comes to life. As the night unfolds, Clara finds herself caught in a fantastical battle between toy soldiers and the Rat King, before being swept away into a dreamlike world filled with snowflakes, sweets, and dancing characters from faraway lands. She journeys through this enchanting fantasy, meeting the Sugar Plum Fairy along the way but when morning comes, you’re left wondering – was it all real, or just a dream? I guess Clara will never know.
This production was everything you would expect from such a prestigious company in such a grand venue. It felt elegant, magical and extremely festive. From small children to more mature audience members, the auditorium was packed with excited faces, all waiting to be enchanted by the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Rat King and the magical world of The Nutcracker. And enchanted they absolutely were.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the performance, I did find myself wishing for a bit more excitement or a slightly more modern edge. That said, I understand that this traditional approach is exactly what many audience members come for, and judging by the reaction around me, they loved it. For me, it occasionally felt a little flat, but overall everything still felt magical – how could it not?
The costumes designed by John Macfarlane were stunning. Clara’s mother’s red dress was breathtaking (my wardrobe needs it), and every single costume felt rich, detailed and full of Christmas spirit. They added so much life and colour to the performance.
Dick Bird’s set design, alongside 59 Productions’ projections, transformed the stage beautifully. We were transported from a grand dining room to a magical kingdom hidden inside a Christmas tree. There was even snow falling from the ceiling into the auditorium, adding an extra special festive touch if you’re seated in the front stalls.
The orchestra were fantastic and incredibly talented. They told the story in ways words simply couldn’t. Tchaikovsky’s original score feels completely timeless and sounded even more magical when performed live by such a skilled orchestra.
The Birmingham Royal Ballet company were brilliant and ridiculously talented. Every pirouette, grand jeté, pas de deux and delicate arabesque was performed with precision and grace. I particularly loved watching Momoko Hirata as the Sugar Plum Fairy. She danced with elegance and control while completely commanding the stage. Every dancer gave it their all, and I could hear whispered gasps of awe from the auditorium throughout the performance.
If you’re looking to watch a Christmas classic filled with magic, spectacular dancing, beautiful costumes and wonderful music, then this is the production for you. I can completely understand why The Nutcracker remains such a fan favourite and why audiences return year after year. It truly is a visionary delight.
