After this highly successful series of productions, the theatre director wanted to stage a ballet that would surpass all before it in grandeur and spectacle. The choice fell upon E. T. A. Hoffmann's deservedly popular Christmas story, with choreography by the famed Marius Petipa and a significantly reworked plot.

Naturally, he again commissioned Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to compose the score for The Nutcracker, which would be his final ballet and last work for the stage.

Premièred on 18 December 1892, the work contains many musical numbers which rank among the Russian composer's most beautiful music; deservedly enjoying huge popularity, the work continues to be performed around the world, particularly in the Christmas period.

Today, the Christmas performance of The Nutcracker remains an indispensable fixture of the Hungarian National Philharmonic's concert season, as does the tradition whereby the work is presented not as a ballet, but in a dazzling production with the collaboration of the Budapest Puppet Theatre.

Once again in 2016, the audience gets the chance to enjoy the creatures of the Land of Sweets and the home of councillor Stahlbaum brought to life with the special magic of live musical accompaniment. The encounter with the councillor, Fritz, Marie, Drosselmeyer, the Nutcracker Prince and the Mouse King once again promises a memorable experience for the whole family.

Date and time: 
27 December 2016, Tuesday, 11 am — 1:10 pm - one interval
Béla Bartók National Concert Hall

Ticket prices: HUF 2100 / HUF 2900 / HUF 3600 / HUF 4300 / HUF 5200

Source: mupa.hu