De Notenkraker
Dance and music come together in this classic Christmas ballet at Rijswijkse Schouwburg. The State Opera of Stara Zagora performs The Nutcracker with a live orchestra of 42 musicians and an equally large group of dancers – a grand production for the whole family.
Clara's adventure begins on Christmas Eve, when her godfather gives her a very special gift: a nutcracker doll. As night falls, the doll transforms into a prince. Together they defeat the Mouse King and travel onward to the Kingdom of Sweets – a world of colour, fantasy and wonder. The story is simple but timeless, and the combination of Tchaikovsky's instantly recognisable music with stunning dance makes it irresistible time and again.
The State Opera of Stara Zagora at Rijswijkse Schouwburg
The production is in the hands of the State Opera of Stara Zagora from Bulgaria. With 42 dancers on stage and a live orchestra of 42 musicians in the pit, this is a performance on a grand scale. Including hair and make-up artists, rehearsal directors and technicians, more than 100 people are involved. Sets and costumes are crafted down to the finest detail.
A ballet with a long history
The Nutcracker premiered in December 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. Since then it has grown into one of the most performed ballets in the world. The choreography and music have remained largely unchanged over the decades, giving the piece a distinctive authenticity. Whether you are seeing it for the first or the tenth time, the impact endures.
