Review: Timeless ballet is festive treat

James Barton in The Russian Dance. Picture: Roy Smiljanic

If you see just one production in the run up to Christmas, make sure it’s Birmingham Royal Ballet’s magical tale of The Nutcracker.

I’ve wanted to see this ballet since I was a little girl and it didn’t disappoint.

The Nutcracker tells the tale of young Clara (Karla Doorbar) and her Christmas gift of a nutcracker doll.

When she sneaks downstairs to play with her doll, she is swept up in a fantastical journey to a magical land of toy soldiers, sugar plum fairies and, of course, her handsome prince.

This timeless and evergreen ballet, with music by Tchaikovsky, is a festive treat beloved by old and young alike.

This world-famous production by Sir Peter Wright, with exquisite designs by John Macfarlane, is acclaimed as one of the best in the world.

Beautifully accompanied by Royal Ballet Sinfonia, the dancing, the costumes and the sets were simply breath-taking.

Be whisked away through the clouds and fly to a world conjured up by magician Drosselmeyer (Jonathan Payn).

Watch the delicate dances of the snowflakes and be transported away withe Arabian dance, one of my favourite scenes.

Credit must be given to Celine Gittens for her elegance and grace.

The classic production has captured the hearts and imaginations of generations of theatregoers and celebrates its silver anniversary in Birmingham.

I still have my head in the clouds after seeing The Nutcracker.

Festive magic at its very best.

Review by Lucie Green Tickets: 0844 338 5000