The Nutcracker returns to Birmingham Hippodrome
It’s one of the most popular ballets in the world and for many it’s a much-loved traditional treat in the run up to Christmas.
The curtain will rise on Birmingham Royal Ballet’s highly-anticipated production of The Nutcracker tonight (FRIDAY)
More than 60 dancers, more than 200 lavish costumes and a full orchestra will help to bring the seasonal show to life at Birmingham Hippodrome.
When young Clara sneaks downstairs on Christmas Eve to play with her new nutcracker doll she is swept up in a fantastic journey filled with toy soldiers, wicked rats, a sugar plum fairy and, of course, her handsome prince, all set against Tchaikovsky’s famous score.
Helping to bring the magic to the stage this year will be principal dancer Céline Gittens and first soloist Brandon Lawrence will be performing the iconic roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince.
Trinidad-born Céline, who began dancing at the age of three and joined the company in 2006, said: "The thing I love most is the tradition. Hearing that music, especially the Sugar Plum Fairy music which everyone knows, gives me such a warm, cosy feeling and it means Christmas is here."
The Nutcracker was created by Sir Peter Wright as a gift for the city of Birmingham in 1990 and has been performed more than 600 times in front of an audience totalling over 900,000 people.
The Nutcracker runs at Birmingham Hippodrome until December 13. Tickets are available at birminghamhippodrome.com/0844 3385000
