Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker, choreographed by Mikko Nissinen and set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, brought the holiday spirit to life in a dazzling performance on December 5th. With stunning sets, gorgeous costumes by Robert Perdziola, and excellent lighting design by Mikki Kunttu, the production transported the audience into a dreamlike world. Each scene delivered something unique—humor, elegance, and spectacle—with the talented cast truly shining.

A Party

The performance opened with the Party Scene, full of charm and laughter. Daniel Rubin and Lauren Herfindahl, as Herr and Frau Silberhaus, set the stage for the warm, festive atmosphere. Sophia Jones, in the role of Clara, immediately won hearts with her natural expressiveness and graceful movements. Her excitement and curiosity brought the young character to life, grounding the magical journey to come. The introduction of the life-sized bear (Henry Griffin) brought delightful laughter to the audience, adding a whimsical touch to the holiday celebration. William Barrett as Fritz also brought energy and mischief to the role, balancing the sibling dynamics perfectly.

A Battle

The transition into the Battle Scene between the Nutcracker and the Mouse King was both humorous and exciting. Schuyler Wijsen’s Mouse King was equal parts comedic and menacing, while Jeffrey Cirio as the Nutcracker Prince moved with sharp precision, commanding the stage. The mice’s antics and the cleverly staged battle choreography entertained children and adults alike.

A Flurry

The Snow Scene was one of the most breathtaking moments of the night. Lia Cirio and Lasha Khozashvili as the Snow Queen and King were majestic, with Cirio’s delicate yet powerful movements anchoring the scene. The Snowflakes—danced beautifully by Kaitlyn Casey, Courtney Nitting, and a talented ensemble—evoked the graceful fall of snow, their fluid choreography shimmering under the snowy lighting. The snowfall itself was enchanting, transforming the stage into a winter wonderland that left the audience mesmerized.

A Candy Land

Act II, the Kingdom of the Sweets, showcased the company’s versatility through its series of cultural dances. The Arabian Dance, performed by Madyson Felber and Ángel García Molinero, stood out as one of the evening’s highlights. Their movements were mesmerizingly fluid and sensual, with an otherworldly quality that captivated the audience. Similarly, the Russian Dance, featuring Tyson Ali Clark and Finn Duggan, brought an explosion of energy with their athletic jumps and sharp, spirited choreography.

The Grand Pas de Deux between the Sugar Plum Fairy (Ji Young Chae) and the Nutcracker Prince (Jeffrey Cirio) was nothing short of spectacular. Ji Young Chae’s performance was a masterclass in elegance and control. Every movement was precise and graceful, yet seemingly effortless. Cirio complemented her beautifully, offering strength and poise as the two danced in perfect harmony. Their performance was the emotional heart of the evening, culminating in a series of breathtaking lifts and spins that earned enthusiastic applause.

Throughout the second act, other notable performances included the charming Chinese Tea duo of Abigail Merlis and Daniel R. Durrett, the whimsical French Marzipan danced by Alexandria Heah and company, and the crowd-pleasing Mother Ginger performed by Ethan Clarise. The young dancers from Boston Ballet School added an extra layer of joy, especially as the adorable Reindeer and Sugar Plum Fairy Attendants.

A Botanical Waltz

Finally, the Waltz of the Flowers brought the evening to a close with a flourish. Viktorina Kapitonova dazzled as the Dew Drop, her movements light yet commanding. The ensemble of Flowers performed with radiant grace, making this scene a visual and choreographic triumph.

From start to finish, Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker was a joyful celebration of the season. Mikko Nissinen’s choreography allowed both principal dancers and the ensemble to shine, while the humor and wonder woven throughout the performance ensured that the production was as magical for children as it was for seasoned ballet fans. Special recognition must go to Sophia Jones (Clara) for her expressive performance, Ji Young Chae and Jeffrey Cirio for their impeccable Grand Pas de Deux, and Lia Cirio for her elegant portrayal of the Snow Queen.

An Orchestral Holiday Tradition

The Boston Ballet Orchestra, conducted by Mischa Santora, delivered Tchaikovsky’s iconic score beautifully, underscoring each moment with rich, dynamic music. The combination of excellent performances, beautiful staging, and festive storytelling made this production of The Nutcracker a highlight of the holiday season—a timeless experience for all.

Boston Ballet’s Nutcracker runs through December 29th at the Boston Opera House.  You can get $45 tickets with promo code:  CITYLIVING45 here.