The Nutcracker
Audiences experience a regional take on the classic ballet, following Clara through a 19th-century Annapolis setting complete with an heirloom German nutcracker and an exciting naval battle against the Rat King. The stage comes alive with shimmering snowfall in the Kingdom of Snowflakes, alongside welcoming crabs, oysters, and dancing confections including Caramel, Popcorn, and Peppermint. Dancers perform Artistic Director Nicole Kelsch's choreography set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's timeless score.
What to Expect
Classic holiday ballet reimagined with a 19th-century Annapolis twist.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Ballet Theatre of Maryland
Food & Drink
Light refreshments are offered at the Sugar Plum Party one hour before each Sunday performance.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and ballet fans
Vibe
Festive and enchanting
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Sun, Nov 22 2:00 PM; Sat, Dec 12 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sun, Dec 13 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM; Sat, Dec 19 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sun, Dec 20 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM.
- Parking: Maryland Hall is undergoing renovations, so there may be temporary changes to parking. The page advises checking email before the show for updates.
- Accessibility: Maryland Hall is accessible, offering designated accessible parking in Lots C and D, entry ramps with automatic doors, and an elevator near the North entrance.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets only through BalletMaryland.org or by phone, because tickets from other sellers may be fraudulent and may not get you in.
- Check your email before the show, because renovations at Maryland Hall may temporarily change parking, bathrooms and how you get into the theater.
- Choose a Sunday performance and arrive an hour early for the Sugar Plum Party, with photos with characters and light refreshments.
- Arrive when the doors open thirty minutes before curtain, because latecomers are seated only during a pause, at management's discretion.
- Keep your phone put away, because photos, video, sound recording and using any device during the performance are not allowed.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sugar Plum Party: photos with characters and light refreshments one hour before each Sunday performance at Maryland Hall.
- One performance at Coppermine Pantherplex on November 22, before the December run at Maryland Hall.
- Virtual tickets are sold per household alongside in-person seats.
- Discounts: 20% for active and retired military and seniors 55+, and 10% for groups of 10 or more who book by phone.
- Season subscribers save up to 30% across the 2026/2027 season.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. It's made for audiences of all ages and the whole family. Children who don't need their own seat don't need a ticket, and child tickets cover ages 12 and under.
What makes this Nutcracker different?
Artistic Director Nicole Kelsch's version is set in 19th-century Annapolis. Clara's German nutcracker is a family heirloom, and the Nutcracker fights the Rat King in a naval battle. Crabs and oysters welcome Clara into the Kingdom of Confections.
Where do I park at Maryland Hall?
There is usually plenty of free parking on all sides of the building, with overflow at Bates Middle School for evening and weekend events. You can also pay to park at the Park Place Garage at the Westin or the West Garrett garage. Don't use the two small lots next to the Carraway Lane townhomes, because cars there get towed.
Is Maryland Hall wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Accessible parking is in Lots C and D behind the building, with ramps to three entrances that have automatic doors. Lot C is closest to the elevator, which is just inside the North entrance facing Carraway Lane. Renovations may temporarily change access this season.
What should I wear?
Jeans, office clothes and a wrap dress all work for the ballet, but you're welcome to dress up as much as you like.
More Christmas Events Near Annapolis
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.