You don’t need us to tell you why one holiday event that everyone should experience is the enchanting ballet classic of “The Nutcracker.” Watching as the crystal snowflakes fall as the clock strikes midnight when the Nutcracker comes to life is simply magical. There are many renditions of Tchaikovsky’s play this season–some just for children–so everyone will be able to find their ideal nut-cracking performance.
December 7-9, 15, 16 & 22
New York Theatre Ballet
Always a family favorite, The New York Theatre Ballet condenses the enchanted adventure into an hour-long, kid-friendly affair complete with energetic choreography and resplendent Met Opera-grade costumes. Parents, rest assured: Even if this is the only version of the classic ballet that you catch this season, its Art Nouveau set and world-class dancers create a sophisticated enough show to please any grown-up enthusiast. Florence Gould Hall, Under 12 from $35 and adults from $40
Through December 16
American Ballet Theatre
This live-orchestra performance of is choreographed by Alexei Ratmansky with costumes and sets by Tony Award winner, Richard Hudson. Thanks to a cast of over 100 members, the effects are lively and stunning with never a dull moment. Recommended for children ages 4 & up. BAM Howard Gilman Opera House, from $25
Through December 30
New York City Ballet
This classic interpretation choreographed by George Balanchine will amaze the whole family this holiday season. Balanchine transforms the stage into a Winter Wonderland with a Christmas tree that grows from 12 to 40 feet, a gigantic 85-lb and 9-foot-wide Mother Ginger, and crystal snowflakes that constantly fall from the sky. Lincoln Center; Prices vary.
December 8
Brighton Ballet Theater/ The School of Russian American Ballet
This adaptation tells the tale of an ungrateful boy name Fitz who leaves his broken gift, a nutcracker, for his maid Marie to find and heal. Marie dreams of marrying a prince, and when the nutcracker comes to life and transforms into a prince, Marie falls in love. Audiences will still recognize familiar characters such as the Mouse King, but those who love a surprise are certainly in for a whole new performance. Kingsborough Community College, Adults $18 and Children $12
December 8
Wonder Tech Lab
In this one-hour showing of Angelina Ballerina: The Nutcracker Sweet, Angelina performs “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and learns how to share her holiday goodies with friends. Sony Wonder Technology Lab; free
December 8-16
Ailey Citigroup Theater
Think you’ve seen it all? Gida Ferrone’s version of “The Nutcracker” combines Tchaikovsky’s original with contemporary dance and movements. Through out show, Clara and the Nutcracker will meet new characters such as a Gingerbread toy, Marzipan Doll, and fly-swatting Candy Canes. 55TH Street at 9th Avenue; Prices $20 & Up.
December 9
Dances Patrelle
The 17th Annual Yorkville Nutcracker is a traditional performance by Hunter College–which sets the classic dance right here in NYC. Star student dancers, Jenifer Ringer and Jared Angle, light up the stage as they dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy and other characers at landmarks like Gracie Mansion and Central Park. Kaye Playhouse; $45 & Up
December 17
The Ballet for Young Audiences
This rendition of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” is perfect for children of all ages. The small cast has shortened the play to one hour and added special narration to make it easy for children to follow. 92Y; Adults $16 and children $12.
December 15 & 16
Peridance Capezio Center
This one-hour performance merges Tchaikovsky’s original moves and dances with hip hop and modern ballet. Perfect for those with contemporary tastes. Salvatore Capezio Theater at Peridance; adults $30 and children $15
December 16
Dance Theatre in Westchester
This full-length version of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” has a special twist: it is set in wintry colonial Yorktown. The Mouse King is accompanied by a red-coated mouse army, and other characters are dressed in Colonial-style costumes. There is narration to help children 4 & up follow the performance. Walk Whitman Theatre at the Brooklyn Center; $10.
December 22-30
The Steadfast Tin Solider & Nutcracker Sweets
This exciting puppet show transforms The Nutcracker into a kid-friendly performance for ages 3 & up. In this interpretation, a tin solider competes with the Jack-In-the-Box for the affections of the Dancing Doll. Puppetworks in Park Slope/Prospect Hts, $5
December 22
Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts
If you love the classics, join Clara and the Nutcracker as they visit the Kingdom of Sweets and dance with the Sugarplum Fairy in this true-to-tradition show. Flushing Town Hall; Adults $16 (Members $12) and Children $12 (Members $10)
