“This brand-new production is set to delight audiences”

English National Ballet’s brand – new production brings renewed sparkle to this classic festive staple.

Reimagining a classic cannot be an easy feat, the collaborative effort needed to present a new version of a much loved story is daunting and risky. In ENB’s case, this needed refreshening of The Nutcracker production not only succeeds but is set to delight audiences.

The story has been in the company’s repertoire since 1950 and performed every end of year, festive season since. Being fortunate to have watched every different production since 2009, I was particularly enthused for this change and so pleased with the result.

This version endearingly enthuses the history of The Coliseum itself with the story’s backdrop, by setting itself in Edwardian London – The Coliseum having been built in 1904. The audience is transported to this time right away, the curtain draws open and we are greeted by Drosselmeyer’s Emporium of Sweets and Delights – impressive set design by Dick Bird – evocative of old-fashioned, traditional sweet shops where beautifully dressed customers come to shop and be delighted by the different concoctions. The magic of Drosselmeyer is also introduced right away, he is the character who conducts the story, transporting the audience magically from his emporium to the grand interior of the Stahlbaum’s residence. Immaculate use of technology here aids the magic of the story, with visually stunning fairy dust projected at almost every flick of his cape. Junor Souza plays the character beautifully adding child-like wonder and mischievous magnetism to the role.

A particular highlight from Act I comes in the form of grown up Clara (Ivan Bueno) appearing at centre stage under a stunning moonlight sky where her and the Nutcracker Prince (Francesco Gabriel Flora) meet and express their adoration through their first dance together. Bueno and Gabriel Flora show intense emotional intricacies throughout their partnership, culminating in a very touching closure to Act I.

Anna Nevzorova as The Ice Queen hosting both Clara and the Nutcracker prince in the land of snow was particularly awe-inspiring, her strong embodiment of the character alongside dazzling technique was a real pleasure to witness.

Act II presents itself in a bang of fantastical and vibrant colours and shapes – the Land of Sweets and Delights. The choreography by Aaron S. Watkin and Arielle Smith here drastically changes from the well-known waltzes previously attributed to dancers from around the globe, now creatively fun and incorporative of the sweets and treats showcased on stage – a particular audience favourite in the form of adorable young dancers embodying liquorice assortments.

English National Ballet’s The Nutcracker truly felt like a journey – through Clara’s story, through reality and the magical realm and also through the emotions the physical and visual elements took the audience through – a delightful marvel to behold.