The Nutcracker (6+)

Inspired by E. T. A. Hoffmann’s famous story and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music, artistic directors Thom Stuart and Rinus Sprong created a version in 2006 that is full of charm, fantasy and warmth. This production features an impressive cast of professional dancers, promising young talent, and dedicated amateurs. It is renowned for its stunning projections by David Middendorp, inspired by the interiors of the palace on Kneuterdijk and the Grote Kerk in The Hague, as well as costumes that reference the rich imagination of the Ballets Russes.

The story

After a grand Christmas party filled with ambassadors and glittering festivities, young Amalia van Wassenaer attends a service at the Grote Kerk with her family. During the sermon she drifts off to sleep just as the clock strikes midnight. She wakes to an empty pew and a wave of panic. Menacing mice and rats creep from the shadows, led by the fearsome Rat King. Her Nutcracker doll, a treasured gift from her Uncle Unico, tries to protect her, together with her brother Willem, but even they cannot escape the danger.

At the last moment, Uncle Unico appears and gently turns the nightmare into a dream. The Nutcracker becomes a handsome prince and the Sugar Fairy welcomes dancers from every corner of the world. When Amalia finally awakens, she finds herself safely back beside her mother, father, brother and grandmother. As they walk home through the winter streets, the snowflakes seem to dance all around them.

A final farewell

This year marks the final chance to experience this beloved family production. After this run, The Nutcracker will no longer be performed in this version, making these performances a special moment for everyone who has followed the tradition.