The Nutcracker

Peter Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker" is certainly one of the most popular "family" ballets in the world. This production from the Semperoper combines the work's fairy-tale aspects with visual opulence. Based on the original libretto by Marius Petipa, the choreography by Aaron S. Watkin and Jason Beechey is modern yet traditional. The spirited dancing, charming sets inspired by Dresden landmarks, and extravagant costumes make the production a joy to behold. The production entrusts the roles of the children in the first act to actual children and youths from Dresden's famous Palucca School of Dance.