Every holiday season, The Nutcracker comes to life on stages across the Garden State. Of course, the classic ballet tells the story of a young girl whose beloved toy nutcracker comes to life, taking her on a magical journey. The tale is told in many ways, and we’re rounding up the best ways to see it in NJ.
So gather up the family and make plans to join one of these amazing dance companies as they bring the beauty of the holiday season to life.
[bibblio style=”bib–row-3 bib–hover bib–white-label bib–font-arial bib–default bib–size-16 bib–shine” query_string_params=”eyJ1dG1fc291cmNlIjoiQmliYmxpbyIsInV0bV9tZWRpdW0iOiJNb2R1bGUiLCJ1dG1fY2FtcGFpZ24iOiJSZWNvbW1lbmRhdGlvbnMifQ==” recommendation_type=”optimised”]
New Jersey Ballet
Details: One of the longest running professional productions in the state, New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker has been delighting audiences for more than 50 years. The performances feature mesmerizing special effects, beautiful dancing and dazzling costumes. The critically acclaimed production has become a holiday tradition for many New Jersey families, who return to see it year after year.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
New Jersey Youth Ballet
Details: The New Jersey Youth Ballet’s Nutcracker is narrated and abridged, making it the perfect choice for families with young children. In addition, children and teens make up nearly the entire performance; including the ballet and dance numbers. Audiences delight in watching toy soldiers and mice do battle, dolls and sweets coming to life and graceful snowflakes dancing in a snow-covered forest.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
American Repertory Ballet
Details: American Repertory Ballet has brought the beloved holiday classic to the stage for more than 50 years. This year’s production features stunning new sets, exciting choreography, a thrilling score and a cast of more than 100 dancers. Featuring professional company dancers, joined by select students from Princeton Ballet School, ARB’s Nutcracker is the perfect holiday treat for the entire family.
More info: Visit the website.
Roxey Ballet
Details: This award-winning professional dance company presents an extravagant production of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker every year. One of the most child-friendly options in the state, this affordable version of the popular ballet features beautiful costumes, special effects and an easy-to-follow story. They often put on a select number of sensory-friendly shows as well (check the website for details).
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
Atlantic City Ballet
Details: The Atlantic City Ballet is proud to present its stunning annual production of the Nutcracker. The ACB is an ensemble dance company teeming with amazing artists from around the globe. With that in mind, the diverse cast puts on a must-see show each year. Kick off the holiday season with this festive production, featuring exquisite sets and costumes. It’s one of the best ways to spread good cheer.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
Moscow Ballet
Details: Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is the biggest Christmas experience of the year. The entire family will be enchanted by larger-than-life magical props, a 60-foot growing Christmas tree and spectacular costumes and sets. This exciting production, praised by the New York Times, features 40 of the world’s most talented dancers.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
Company of Dance Arts
Details: Set to the beautiful music of Tchaikovsky, CODA’s annual production of the Nutcracker heads to the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank. This spectacular show features professional soloists from New York City ballet companies, as well as accomplished local dancers.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
Nunnbetter Dance Theatre
Details: Nunnbetter Dance Theatre’s annual production of The Nutcracker is a full-length, lavish presentation of the Christmas classic. The ballet is performed by NDT students, as well as professional and pre-professional dancers, and features a growing Christmas tree, snow flurries and a dazzling Sugar Plum Fairy. In fact, this is one of the most unique ways to see the Nutcracker on stage.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble
Details: This year marks the 51st year of New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble’s Nutcracker. The full-length production features more than 50 young dancers from around the state, as well as renowned professional guest artists.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet
Details: This holiday season, NJCYB brings the fanciful story of The Nutcracker to life with their whimsical performance. The dramatic presentation of the classic story features a narrator, making it a great introduction to the classic tale for families with young children. As with some of the other shows on the list, this one also combines students and pro dancers. The end result is both graceful as well as impressive.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
Details: If you’re up for a totally reimagined production of the classic ballet, check out The Hip Hop Nutcracker at NJPAC. Starring Kurtis Blow as special guest MC, this unique holiday show features explosive hip-hop choreography, digital scenery, an electric violinist and a live DJ. This contemporary urban twist on the classic story will have everyone dancing in their seats.
More info: Visit the website or you can give them a call.
Hero (Top) Feature Image: © State Theatre New Jersey / Facebook
Additional Images (in Order) Courtesy:
New Jersey Ballet Company / Facebook
New Jersey Youth Ballet / Facebook
SOPAC / Website
Roxey Ballet Company / Facebook
Atlantic City Ballet / Facebook
Nutcracker.com / Website
CODA NJ / Website
Nunnbetter Dance Theatre / Facebook
New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble / Facebook
New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet / Facebook
NJ PAC / Website
