For many people, The Nutcracker ballet is as much a part of the holiday season as candy canes and Christmas trees. In fact, it’s one of the most famous ballets in history. Fortunately, there are numerous performances around the country so you have plenty of opportunities to see it. And note that many dance companies put their own spin on the timeless holiday story. From traditional shows to a hip-hop version, check this list for the best places to see The Nutcracker ballet around the USA.
Read More: 13 Enchanting Christmas Towns in the USA
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, Miami City Ballet – Ft. Lauderdale, Miami and West Palm Beach, FL
Miami’s version of the family friendly ballet combines local culture with the classic story of The Nutcracker Ballet. For example, this version retains the magic of George Balanchine’s choreography and the power of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score while bringing the artistic influence of Isabel and Ruben Toledo. The Toledos are Cuban-American artists; she is a fashion designer and he is an illustrator.
Performance Dates: The ballet takes place at three venues and starts at the Fort Lauderdale, Broward Center from December 8-10. The next performances are at Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts from December 18 – 24. The ballet concludes at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach from December 28 – 30.
SheBuysTravel Tip: If we do make a trip to Miami, the InterContinental Miami is on my list of places to check out. Also on my list, I’m certainly going to see more of the culture at Calle Ocho. It’s not only SheBuysTravel recommended, but a hot spot where the Toledos have been spotted.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker, Touring Nationwide
Hip Hop Nutcracker is a spin on the classic Nutcracker ballet with hip-hop choreography, an on-stage DJ, an electric violin AND the well-loved traditional Tchaikovsky score. Its story is set on Broadway and the streets of New York City. Maria-Clara is still rescued by the Nutcracker (a vendor selling nuts) before waking up in a dream state on New Year’s Day 1984.
Performance Dates: Hip Hop Nutcracker has tour dates from November 10 – December 30 around the country.
SheBuysTravel Tip: With so many places to see the Hip Hop Nutcracker, use the SheBusTravel rules on how to find the best airline tickets and let price be your guide. The city with the best airline ticket prices — or the quickest drive time — wins. Check our fly or drive guide to figure out which would be best for you.
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet – Touring the United States
The NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet features an international cast, led by renowned Ukrainian artists. The team is also made up of dancers and puppeteers from across the US, Japan, France, Italy, Turkey, the Czech Republic and South Africa. In addition, the show features a flock of doves created by South African puppeteer Roger Titely. These doves represent peace and harmony, two values integral to the NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet.
Performance Dates: The ballet will touch much of the US with dates from November 11 – December 31. Check for ticket dates in your city.
The Nutcracker, Houston Ballet – Houston, TX
The Houston Ballet presents Stanton Welch’s choreography in its version of the Nutcracker. Children are a central focus of the performance as the story opens with Clara addressing her toys; a change from the traditional party on Christmas Eve of most stories. The performance has a mix of traditional and contemporary elements. The Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker Prince are present along with a trip to the Kingdom of Sweets.
Performance Dates: The performances will be held November 25 to December 27 at the Wortham Center’s Brown Theater.
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