BRB’s Nutcracker: Birmingham’s favourite festive tradition

For many families across Birmingham and the West Midlands, Christmas wouldn't be complete without a trip to see The Nutcracker. With its enchanting music, spectacular dancing and magical winter scenes, Birmingham Royal Ballet's much-loved production has become a treasured part of the city's festive celebrations, welcoming generations of audiences to Birmingham Hippodrome each year.

But this is more than just a Christmas tradition. Our production has a special place in Birmingham's history, having been created as a gift to the city by Sir Peter Wright, Birmingham Royal Ballet's Founding Director Laureate.

A gift to the city of Birmingham

When Sir Peter Wright led the Company, then known as Sadler's Wells Royal Ballet, from London to Birmingham in 1990, he wanted to give something back to the city that had welcomed us as its new home.

He created a brand-new production of The Nutcracker especially for Birmingham Royal Ballet, presenting it as a gift to the people of Birmingham during the Company's first season in the city. The production made its world premiere at Birmingham Hippodrome in 1990, with designs by acclaimed artist John Macfarlane.

More than three decades later, Sir Peter's vision continues to delight audiences every Christmas. His production has become synonymous with the festive season in Birmingham and remains a defining part of the Company's identity.

This year is particularly special as we celebrate Sir Peter's 100th birthday on 25 November 2026. His extraordinary contribution to Birmingham Royal Ballet and the wider world of ballet continues to be felt today, and we are proud to bring his much-loved production back to the stage in his centenary year.

A magical Christmas tradition

From the moment the curtain rises, audiences are transported into a world of Christmas wonder. At the heart of the story is Clara, whose mysterious Nutcracker Doll takes her on an extraordinary adventure, from a lively Christmas Eve party to a magical battle with the fearsome King Rat and a breathtaking journey through a snow-covered landscape.

Tchaikovsky's glorious score, performed live by the 60-strong Royal Ballet Sinfonia, brings every moment to life. There is the excitement of the Christmas party, the delicate beauty of the Snowflakes dancing beneath falling snow and the grandeur of the Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy awaits.

With spectacular designs, exquisite costumes, daring swordfights and a magnificent 30-foot Christmas tree, every scene offers something to capture the imagination. It is a production filled with moments of wonder, whether you're experiencing the magic for the very first time or returning to a familiar favourite.

A tradition shared across generations

Perhaps one of the most special things about The Nutcracker is the way it brings people together. For some, it is their first introduction to ballet; for others, it is an annual family tradition, passed down from one generation to the next.

Parents who once watched Clara's magical adventure as children now bring their own families, creating new memories together. Others return year after year to rediscover the music, characters and moments they know and love.

As the curtain falls and the final notes of Tchaikovsky's score fill the auditorium, the magic of The Nutcracker stays with you long after you leave the theatre.

Created as a gift to Birmingham more than 35 years ago, Sir Peter Wright's production has become a gift that keeps on giving. This Christmas, we're delighted to welcome audiences back to Birmingham Hippodrome to celebrate another year of Birmingham's favourite Christmas tradition.

The Nutcracker runs from Friday 20 November to Saturday 12 December 2026 at Birmingham Hippodrome. Book your tickets now for Birmingham's ultimate festive treat!