The Nutcracker at Royal Albert Hall

The Nutcracker enjoyed an exclusive two-night run at the Royal Albert Hall, bringing Birmingham Royal Ballet’s festive favourite to one of London’s most majestic stages. Set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this performance is a delicate yet dazzling spectacle, filled with elegance, warmth and seasonal charm.

Faithful to the traditional narrative, the ballet follows Clara as her beloved toy springs to life with the help of her mysterious German grandfather, Herr Drosselmeyer. What follows is a dreamlike journey to the Land of Sweets, complete with a battle against the menacing Rat King and a celebratory dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy. When Clara saves the prince, she is rewarded with a magical world of indulgence and joy. The production, revived by Sir Peter Wright, embraces the festive spirit wholeheartedly. At centre stage stands an imposing Christmas tree, wrapped in presents, while the ensemble frames the scene to evoke the warmth of a united Victorian family.

Set designer Dick Bird introduces an element of theatrical magic, with glowing baubles suspended above the stage and two grand doors serving as portals for the dancers. Each entrance is met with a sense of wonder, enhancing the illusion of a storybook world unfolding in real time.

The corps deserve particular praise for their precision and stamina, navigating the vast Royal Albert Hall with remarkable cohesion. Opening night standout Rosanna Ely embodied Clara with poise and ethereal grace, her refined technique never wavering despite the scale of the staging. Her performance felt almost otherworldly, as if Clara herself existed beyond the constraints of Victorian childhood. The younger performers, including Clara’s brother and the on-stage children, brought a joyful innocence that added warmth and authenticity to the storytelling.

The orchestra was equally impressive, capturing the full emotional range of Tchaikovsky’s score. From moments of tension during Clara’s peril to the softness of her dances with the Prince, the music seamlessly balanced tradition with theatrical flourish. The most magical moments came as the Prince awakened and when Clara arrived in the Land of Sweets, times where the score truly sparkled.

Costume designer John Macfarlane’s designs are rich and detailed, from Clara’s pure white dress to the Rat King’s grotesque masks and the Sugar Plum Fairy’s lavish, period-accurate gown. Candy-coloured costumes worn by her attendants further reinforced the sweetness of the fantasy world.

While the stage occasionally felt sparse, moments such as the falling snow, drifting onto both stage and audience, ensured the festive atmosphere remained intact.

Overall, this enchanting rendition of The Nutcracker delivered elegance, magic and seasonal wonder, making it a must-see at one of London’s most extravagant venues.

Sophie Humphrey
Photos: Anabel Moeller

The Nutcracker is at Royal Albert Hall from 29^th until 31^st December 2025. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.

Watch the trailer for The Nutcracker at Royal Albert Hall here: