The Nutcracker at the Birmingham Hippodrome Review

Reviewed by Cate Norris

It’s that time of year again. The arrival of The Nutcracker at the Birmingham Hippodrome is up there with my favourite Birmingham Christmas traditions and truly marks the start of the festive season.

The story of The Nutcracker is a story of imagination and wonder, where toys spring to life and enchanted realms exist within the norms of the family home, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, where dreams come true and excitement and danger lurk around every corner.

Clara (Karla Doorbar) is a ballet student, gifted with a magnificent nutcracker doll by magician, Drosselmeyer (Jonathan Payn), during her parents’ Christmas ball. Unable to part with her beloved gift, Clara sneaks downstairs after the party but at the stroke of midnight, strange and mysterious things begin to happen and Clara’s world transforms before her eyes and she is transported to various lands, where danger awaits with her loyal nutcracker by her side.

It is hard to put into words how visually beautiful The Nutcracker is, from the magnificent scenes of Christmas Tree Forest to the Land of Snow, gasps of awe could be heard throughout the auditorium as breath was literally taken away. Added against these spectacular backdrops were some of the most talented ballet dancers I have ever seen. The grace and elegance appeared effortless and was absolutely beautiful to watch.

Celine Gittens was stunning as The Rose Fairy as was Momoko Hirata as The Sugar Plum Fairy. Both were an inspiration and a pleasure to watch. Aitor Galende, Max Maslen and Joseph Taylor delighted with their upbeat Russian dance.

Birmingham Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a magical performance, suitable for all the family. It’s the ideal night out during this cold weather, completely surrounded by the warmth of Christmas, guaranteed to give you that ‘gingerbread feeling’.

Rating: 4/5

Tickets cost from £20 (booking fees may apply).

The Nutcracker is at the Birmingham Hippodrome from 23 November to 13 December 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com or call the box office on 0844 338 5000.

Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst St, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB | 0844 338 5000