Set to Prokofiev’s beloved score by the same name, this well-known ballet is one hefty tome of fantasy – all dreams and made-up things. And once we’ve joined Clara on her isle-hopping adventure with the Nutcracker Prince, we can’t help savoring that childhood goodness and holiday spirit.
The choreography weaves ballet with character dance, and every cast member gets a chance to shine: there’s tough-talking Maurice King, with his arched spine and claws outstretched. There’s the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy, with her magical tutu and glitter-showering finale. The Nutcracker is nothing short of a masterpiece, an enduring ballet classic because it skillfully stirs our capacity for joy and wonder. With every spinning jump and prissy step, the ballet awakes our own fantasy and inner child – that deep desire to be happy and genuinely believe in magic.
