Ballet Austin's The Nutcracker
Audience members follow Clara on an enchanting journey from a festive holiday gathering to the Land of Sweets alongside the Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker Prince. The production features choreography by Stephen Mills set to Tchaikovsky's classic score, performed live by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Before the performance, guests can visit interactive spaces like Clara's Corner for children, pose at themed selfie stations, and explore costumes and pointe shoes.
What to Expect
Ballet Austin's 64th annual production accompanied by the Austin Symphony Orchestra.
Event Details
Duration
2 hours, including two 50-minute acts and a 20-minute intermission.
Ages
All ages (Lap seat tickets available for children under 3)
Neighborhood
Downtown Austin
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Ballet Austin
Food & Drink
Handcrafted specialty cocktails and mocktails, plus shareable small bites, are available before performances and during intermissions.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and ballet-loving holiday audiences
Vibe
Festive and enchanting
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Dec. 4: 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 5: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 6: 2:00 p.m.; Dec. 11: 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 12: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 13: 2:00 p.m.; Dec. 17: 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 18: 2:00 p.m.; Dec. 19: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 20: 2:00 p.m.; Dec. 22: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 23: 2:00 p.m.
- Accessibility: Accessible seating is available on all levels via elevators in the Rollins Lobby, with designated accessible parking spaces in the Palmer Events Center Garage.
Tips & Advice
- Come early on Opening Weekend, Dec. 4–6, for free professional holiday photos and to spot Tea, Mouse, Soldier and Bon-Bon in the lobbies.
- Arrive an hour before curtain to catch Footlights, a 25-minute talk on the story and creative process at theater entrances 23 and 24.
- Bring kids early so they can play and create in Clara's Corner in the Kodosky Lounge, which is open only before the show.
- Buy a season package if you plan to see two or more Ballet Austin shows, since packages save 10–20% and include free exchanges.
- Start at the Welcome Center on the Orchestra level terrace or in the Rollins Lobby for a map of all the pre-show happenings.
Special Events & Promotions
- Opening Weekend only, Dec. 4–6: free professional holiday photos.
- Opening Weekend only: character cameos in the lobbies from Tea, Mouse, Soldier and Bon-Bon.
- Season ticket packages save 10–20% for two or more shows. They also discount up to 8 extra tickets per production and include free exchanges.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the performance?
About two hours: two 50-minute acts with a 20-minute intermission.
What is there to do before the show?
Stop at the Welcome Center for a map, look for the themed selfie stations, and explore pointe shoes and costumes at the Behind the Ballet pop-up. The Guild Gift Barre sells Nutcrackers, ornaments and t-shirts. The pre-show activities are free, except shopping.
Is there anything just for young kids?
Clara's Corner in the Kodosky Lounge lets kids play, create and move before the curtain rises. Clara also greets guests for photos throughout the run.
Can I get drinks and food at the show?
Specialty cocktails inspired by the show, mocktails and small bites are served before the show and at intermission. You can take your drink out to the terrace, which looks over the downtown skyline.
Is the music live?
Yes. The Austin Symphony Orchestra plays Tchaikovsky's score live.
More Christmas Events Near Austin
More Christmas Events near Austin
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.