It just wouldn’t be Christmas in Cape Town without a festive ballet, so a round of applause to Cape Town City Ballet for bringing a festive favourite back to Cape Town.
The Nutcracker is a classic Christmas story and ballet that's become a holiday tradition around the world. It originated as a fairy tale written by E.T.A. Hoffmann in 1816, titled The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. The story was later adapted by Alexandre Dumas, and it was his text that served as inspiration for the iconic ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1892.
This year’s production by Cape Town City Ballet at Artscape Opera House is choreographed and directed by Veronica Paeper, and will bring Cape Town City Ballet’s 90th anniversary year to a close.
The charming Christmas tale revolves around Clara and the nutcracker doll she receives as a gift from her godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer. As the family’s Christmas party ends and the clock strikes midnight, the magic begins as she is whisked away by a handsome prince on a wondrous adventure. From a giant Christmas tree to toy soldiers, mischievous mice, dancing snowflakes and waltzing flowers, an enchanting story unfolds that culminates in the Land of Sweets where Clara meets the Sugar Plum Fairy and her new friends from around the world.
On stage alongside the professional leads will be talented dancers – some as young as six years old – who will join the production from dance schools and academies in and around Cape Town.
‘Veronica Paeper’s The Nutcracker blends tradition with innovation, making this classic tale sparkle with renewed vibrancy and it is the perfect holiday entertainment for the whole family,’ says Tracy Li, Artistic Manager for Cape Town City Ballet.
The Christmas Eve matinee (12 pm) on December 24 is set to be a particularly special performance for children, as it will be followed by a Fairy Parade directly after the show.
All children attending, whether dressed up or not, will have the chance to go on stage after the performance to meet the cast and have a photo with the dancers.
The Nutcracker runs from December 13 to December 29, 2024, with tickets from R200 to R400 through Webtickets and Artscape Dial-A-Seat on 021 421 7695. A 10% discount applies to Pensioners and Students (with a valid ID) and for group bookings of ten or more.
Don’t miss the switch on of the Festive Lights!