“Once again, The Nutcracker proves to be THE ballet to watch when getting into the spirit of all things festive.”

As part of the Royal Albert Hall’s 150th Anniversary season, Birmingham Royal Ballet’s spectacular production is back, after a two year enforced absence. The Nutcracker is a festive staple and has been performed at the renowned venue, under Sir David Bintley’s production, since 2017.

The magical story follows young Clara’s dreamy journey to The Land of Snow after receiving a nutcracker doll as her Christmas present from her godfather Drosselmeyer.

The vast space unique to this venue provides the perfect backdrop for this specific and tailored production, shining the spotlight of focus onto the performers with incredible ballet being performed and music orchestrated.

One of the most inspiring sequences is Clara’s ascent into her dream, the combination of set design (Dick Bird) and breathtaking projections (59 Productions) brings the scene to life; presenting a stunning spectacle for the audience, and transporting everyone from real world to dream world.

There were a few surprises in store – refreshing tweaks such as the slight change in the iconic Drosselmeyer’s character from magician to doll-maker which meant the narrative flowed nicely when the toys he presented to the children for Christmas in Act I were the same characters who came to life and danced alongside Clara in The Land of Sweets in Act II.

As the main character Clara, Beatrice Parma presents a masterclass in transforming from doe eyed childlike wonder to a calm confidence when alongside the Nutcracker Prince later on in her journey. Equally, César Morales personified a strong and dominant lead as The Nutcracker Prince and a reliable dance partner to both Clara (Parma) and the Sugar Plum Fairy is flawlessly and elegantly interpreted by Miki Mizutani.

As the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, orchestrated by Paul Murphy played out Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, it is ever so hard not to suspend one’s belief and be transported into the wonder and enhancement of the fantastical world being presented on stage. Once again, The Nutcracker proves to be THE ballet to watch when getting into the spirit of all things festive.