Of course I knew The Nutcracker's wonderful score was by Tchaikovsky and that the story entailed a toy soldier, the famous sugar plum fairy, scary mice and a magical dolls house but for me the Christmas connection and the actual storyline didn't mean very much to me... until now.
What better way to get to know this enchanted tale (and get in the Christmas spirit) through the beauty of music and dance?!
'An enchanted dolls' house, an evil governess, and a nutcracker who may just be a handsome prince in disguise ... '
Scottish Ballet has certainly helped me enter a magical new world with their production of The Nutcracker, based on ETA Hoffmann's original story 'Nutcracker and the King of Mice'.
As always, Scottish Ballet presented a vivid retelling of the Christmas story with colourful and stunning sets and costumes that even included a representation of Tchaikovsky himself on stage. It was a truly magical performance from start to finish and I can't believe I have missed out on this fantastical tale for such a long time.
Since discovering the beauty and joy of the art through Scottish Ballet's influence, I have actually become acquainted with many new interests and The Nutcracker is just one of them. It is such a wonderful (and slightly mad) story that I will be making sure that elements of it is factored into my annual celebrations. In fact, I had to make sure I had candy canes for my tree after it and a rather beautiful emerald Nutcracker prince was purchased!
Christmas might be over but there is still time to catch a performance near you and reignite the magic of Christmas:
Glasgow
Theatre Royal 8-29 December 2012
Edinburgh
Festival Theatre 8-12 January 2013
Aberdeen
His Majesty's Theatre 16-19 January 2013
Inverness
Eden Court Theatre 23-26 January 2013
Belfast
Grand Opera House 30 January-2 February 2013
Newcastle
Theatre Royal 6-9 February 2013
I'd love to hear if you have been to see it or if you are planning on going!
A brilliant show & I am looking forward to The Great Gatsby by Scottish Ballet next month. I saw Streetcar Named Desire last year and it was one of the best ballets I have ever seen.
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