The Royal Ballet performs The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House. Tchaikovsky's classic directed by Sir Peter Wright. A christmassy treat for all.
The Nutcracker (2018)
Ballet
the royal ballet presents
The Nutcracker
Ballet109 min2016PG
Peter Wright's interpretation of The Nutcracker has been enchanting children and adults alike since its first performance by The Royal Ballet in 1984. Lev Ivanov's 1892 ballet combined with Tchaikovsky's sumptuous, iconic score are presented in a festive period setting with vivid designs to make this a charming and magical production. Loosely based on the story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the ballet begins in the 19th-century German home of the Stahlbaums, where they are hosting a lively Christmas party. The period setting is captured in opulent detail by Julia Trevelyan Oman's designs, which include authentic Christmas tree decorations that are magically brought to life. Wright's choreography ingeniously incorporates surviving fragments of the ballet's original material, including the sublime pas de deux for the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince. But in emphasizing the relationship between Clara and the Nutcracker, the production also gains a touching subtext of first love.
Why Watch This
“This 2016 performance honored the 90th birthday of legendary choreographer Sir Peter Wright, whose definitive staging has been a crown jewel of the company repertoire since 1984. The broadcast is particularly noted for the depth and musical sensitivity of the principal dancers, especially the portrayal of Clara, youthful, luminous, and technically precise throughout.”
— Marquee TV Content Curator