The Nutcracker - The London Coliseum

The Nutcracker

It wouldn’t be Christmas in the capital without a staging of the classic Tchaikovsky ballet “The Nutcracker”, which is set to appear at the London Coliseum throughout December. The show has been seen by audiences for well over a century and is a staple of the dance season, having appeared at both the Coliseum and the Royal Opera House on many occasions over the years and been introduced to different generations of audiences. So upon its return to the capital in 2010, it is likely that theatre tickets will be in high demand and that London theatre audiences will be flocking to the Coliseum.

“The Nutcracker”, or Der Nussknacker as it was known by Tchaikovsky, follows the adventure enjoyed by Clara on one magical Christmas. The title refers to the present given to her by the magician Mr Dosselmeyer and whilst it initially appears to be a regular nutcracker doll, it is soon going to make this a Christmas to remember. So when she ventures downstairs at midnight she is surprised to see giant mice attacking her brother’s toy soldiers, with the nutcracker heroically entering the battle. Soon Clara travels with the doll to the land of Snow and on their adventure they meet a number of other well known and beloved characters.

The ballet was penned in the late 19th century and was first seen by audiences in 1892. However, it could not possibly have been known at the time what kinds of impact the show would have over the next century, becoming one of the best known ballets in the world. It stands up alongside other productions like “Swan Lake” and “The Sleeping Beauty” – also by Tchaikovsky, amongst others, as shows that have defined the last century. It is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by E. T. A. Hoffmann.

And the Coliseum will provide audiences with a wonderful backdrop in which to witness the events unfold, standing up as one of the best locations for ballet in the country. It regularly hosts the very best the world has to offer, making London one of the best places to witness the best in dance – with Sadler’s Wells and the Peacock Theatre just around the corner hosting shows such as “Bale de Rua” and the upcoming Christmas production of “The Snowman”.

The Nutcracker appears at the London Coliseum from Friday 10th December 2010 to Thursday 30th December 2010.