Description
With its colorful costumes, dreamlike Tchaikovsky score, and memorable roles, the Nutcracker Ballet is a Christmas classic.
The fantastic tale of a toy soldier come to life has been delighting audiences for more than 125 years. For many youngsters, it is their first introduction to the world of classical music and ballet.
The ballet was first performed in Russia in 1892. Composed by Tchaikovsky and choreographed by three of Russia’s greatest artists. The ballet was inspired by a German story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.”
Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71,” as the complete score is known, consists of eight movements, including the memorable dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the march of the Wooden Soldiers.
What is the Columbine doll in The Nutcracker?
The Columbine is a life-sized doll who springs to life and dances for Clara and her party guests after being wound up from the back. The Columbine doll is traditionally a cherished role in Nutcracker performances. Usually danced by a ballerina en pointe, the part is typically given to an advanced dancer.
Memorable Performances
Although popular at the time of its debut, “The Nutcracker” did not become well known in the U.S. until the San Francisco Ballet began performing it on an annual basis in 1944. Other well-known versions include George Balanchine’s performance with the New York City Ballet beginning in 1954. Other famous dancers who have performed include Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Mark Morris.
See also Swan Lake ballet dancer.
