Top Five Reasons to See the National Ballet’s The Nutcracker

The National Ballet’s The Nutcracker is as much a part of the Ontario holiday season as snow, sweet treats and family fun – in fact you’ll see all three of these things on stage as you enjoy the performance.

From the opening scenes where Misha and his sister Marie enjoy a grand family party on Christmas Eve, to the dance of the Snow Maidens that whisks you away to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy, The National Ballet’s The Nutcracker takes you on a lush journey whether it is the first or fifteenth time you’ve seen it. Thinking of planning a trip? Here’s five reasons to make The Nutcracker part of your holidays this year:

1. Story-time: Forty-five minutes before the show kids and adults alike can enjoy The National Ballet’s “Storytime” program. Refresh your memories of The Nutcracker as a grown-up Marie and Misha remember their time in the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Storytime gives kids the chance to be up-close to the action and involved in the story!

2. A Dancing Horse, a Skating Bear and of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy: Where else can you see a bear pirouette on pointe shoes and arabesque on skates? How about watch a horse dance across a snowy landscape? Costuming in Act I is so lifelike you’d swear there were real animals on the stage. Of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy’s famous pink costume in Act II will have young ballerinas in the audience daydreaming of their first ballet tutu.

Flickr photo by nationalballetofcanada

3. Dazzling Effects: Streamers that burst from cannons, a Christmas Tree that magically grows to fill the stage, snow that gently falls on the dancers – by the end of the show you will have forgotten you are in the Four Seasons Centre, and will have taken the journey to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy with Marie and Misha.

Flickr photo by nationalballetofcanada

4. Kid Fun: Thinking about introducing your little one to this classic ballet? The Nutcracker is the perfect way to first experience dance. The story about a brother and sister is something many children can relate to. Plus, The Nutcracker features 60 ballet students, meaning kids will get the chance to watch someone their age dance right along side the National Ballet’s principal dancers. A crowd favourite? These ballet students playing the role of lambs can be spotted in the lobby at intermission.

5. Lots of Great Ways to get Tickets: The Nutcracker runs from December 10, 2011 – January 3rd, 2012, and is always a big seller. If you’re planning a last minute trip here are couple of ways to find a ticket:

• Holiday 4-Pack – Planning on taking in The Nutcracker with a group? The Holiday 4-Pack allows you to save $53 on your total purchase of four tickets. Talk about an early Christmas gift!
• Discounted Tickets – The National Ballet is offering a 25% discount on certain performances of The Nutcracker.  For a complete list of discounted show dates visit them online.
• Rush Tickets – Some performances of the Nutcracker will have rush tickets avaliable for $35 the day of the show! Tickets must be bought in person, with a maximum of 2 per person. If you are in the area, stop by the Four Seasons Box Office at any time after 11 am and see what’s avaliable.
• Standing Room Tickets – If you don’t mind being on your feet for the performance, a standing room ticket is your way to enjoy The Nutcracker for only $12! As with rush tickets, standing room tickets only available in person the day of the show after 11 am.
• Package Deal – Tourism Toronto offers a hotel packages with The Nutcracker. Why not make a weekend of it!

For more ticket info, visit the National Ballet online, or call the box office at 1 866 345 9595