a portland retelling

Join the Portland Ballet for their very special edition of the quintessential Christmas classic, with a local twist! Beginning at the Victoria Mansion before sweeping across the city to magical lands, you'll recognize some of Portlands's most beloved characters and more as this glorious production plays out at the Merril Auditorium, with live accompaniment from the Portland Ballet Orchestra.

First seen as a short story published in 1816 by E.T.A Hoffmann, The Nutcracker was adapted by Tchaikovsky and choreographer Marcus Petipa for the stage in 1892 and went on to receive its North American premiere back in 1944 with the San Francisco Ballet. Since then, it has become a quintessential family event, with productions numbering in the 100s from ballet companies all over the country from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.

What is the story?

On Christmas Eve, a young girl receives a magnificent Nutcracker doll from her mysterious Godfather. As the clock strikes midnight, her new gift suddenly comes to life, beginning an adventure that sees them both travel to fantastical realms, where they meet new friends, battle dastardly foes, and much much more!