The Nutcracker - International Festival Ballet & Orchestra
Audiences watch the classic story of Marie and her Nutcracker Prince come to life on stage, featuring the battle against the Mouse King and a journey to the Land of Sweets. Dancers from the International Festival Ballet present classical choreography in opulent costumes and grand sets designed by Vjatscheslav Okunev. The full performance is accompanied live by an orchestra playing Tchaikovsky's celebrated score.
What to Expect
Performed by the International Festival Ballet with live orchestra accompaniment.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Charlottenburg
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
International Festival Ballet
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and fans of classical ballet
Vibe
Festive, elegant, and fairytale-like
Energy Level
Low
Budget
€€€
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: From €57.15 for the listed December 8, 2026 appointment. – Get tickets
Tips & Advice
- Ride the S-Bahn or U6 to Friedrichstraße, which is only about 100 meters from the Admiralspalast and served by many lines.
- Check that you're booking the International Festival Ballet show, because other Nutcracker productions also play in Berlin this season, one of them at the Admiralspalast.
- Book online for the specific date you want, since each ticket is for one performance during the run.
- Listen for familiar pieces like the Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the Reed Flutes, as first-timers often recognize far more of the music than expected.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ballet suitable for children?
Yes. Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker has delighted young and old for more than 130 years. The score includes dances for snowflakes, dolls and cake children.
Is the music live?
Yes. A live orchestra accompanies the performance: the Orchestra of the National Opera of Moldova, conducted by Normunds Vaicis.
What is the story about?
Marie gets a nutcracker from her godfather Drosselmeyer on Christmas Eve. That night she dreams of the Nutcracker's toy soldiers fighting the Mouse King's army. With her help the Nutcracker wins and turns into a prince. He takes her across the fir forest to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy holds a party in their honor.
Who performs it?
The International Festival Ballet performs, a company of 42 dancers trained at schools including the Vaganova Academy and the Kyiv State Choreographic Academy. The company was formerly called the St. Petersburg Festival Ballet and changed its name in protest against Russia's war on Ukraine.
How do I get there by public transport?
S+U Friedrichstraße is about 100 meters away and served by several S-Bahn lines and the U6. Unter den Linden station (U5, U6) is a short walk away.
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