Go nuts for the ’cracker

Tchaikovsky’s ballet has enchanted audiences for generations. Based on a ETA Hoffman story, The Nutcracker follows the adventures of Clara, who is given a Nutcracker doll for Christmas by her godfather Drosselmeier, which then comes alive at night.

The Nutcracker tells Clara he was a prince, transformed by the Mouse King, who then invades the house to capture the Nutcracker.

A battle ensues between the Nutcracker Prince and his army, and Mouse King and his minions, in which the Mouse King is defeated.

As a reward, Clara and the Nutcracker are transported to the Land of Sweets to be congratulated and entertained by the Sugar Plum Fairy in a sumptuous party.

Minsk is a city acclaimed for its folk choreography and classic dance forms and is home to the most talented young dancers of the State Ballet Academy.

The academy was established in 1928, and teaches many graduates of the St Petersburg school and soloists of the Mariinsky Theatre.

It has an outstanding level of teaching and performs on the world’s best stages of Russia, Paris, London and New York.

Many of the academy’s young artists have won prizes and diplomas in international ballet competitions, and students worldwide strive to attend.

The ballet is brought to life by 45 young artists, while audiences will also be wowed by a fantastic set and dazzling costumes, plus of course Tchaikovsky’s timeless and enduringly popular score.

The Nutcracker comes to Theatre Royal Wakefield on Saturday October 29, at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £15.50, £17.50 and £19.50, or £12.50 for the matinee performance, available from www.theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk or the box office on 01924 211311.