The Nutcracker
Audiences follow Clara to the Kingdom of the Sweets in Mikko Nissinen’s reimagined holiday classic, complete with a dancing bear, a growing Christmas tree, and a battle between toy soldiers and mice. The Boston Ballet Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live alongside dazzling company dancers and Boston Ballet School students. The stage comes alive with grand hand-painted sets and more than 350 costumes.
What to Expect
Mikko Nissinen's holiday classic featuring live music by the Boston Ballet Orchestra.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately two hours including one intermission.
Ages
Infants and children under 2 years of age are not allowed in the theater. All children must have their own seats and be accompanied by an adult.
Neighborhood
Theater District
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Boston Ballet
Food & Drink
Lobby beverages may be brought into the theater; snacks are permitted only in the theater’s noiseless cups, and outside food and drinks are prohibited.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and ballet fans
Vibe
Festive and theatrical
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Accessibility: The theater has a sidewalk-level entrance, elevator access to all floors, ADA seating on every level, and assisted listening devices.
Tips & Advice
- Dress for a warmer-than-usual auditorium, since the theater is kept warm to accommodate the dancers.
- Arrive early to get seated before the performance; latecomers face a strict 24-minute seating hold.
- Keep bags within 22 x 14 x 9 inches, because larger bags are not allowed inside and must be checked at coat check.
- If sound or light sensitivities are a concern, note that the show may include loud music and flashing lights.
- For a group of 10 or more, ask about group outings to access early ticketing and potential savings of up to 35%.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory Friendly Performance and in-theater experience at the December 4 matinee
- Premium add-on experience at the December 12 and December 19 matinees, sold separately
- Groups of 10 or more get early access to tickets and up to 35% in savings
- Subscribers get early access to tickets
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the performance?
About two hours, including one intermission.
Is the music live?
Yes. The Boston Ballet Orchestra plays Tchaikovsky's score at every performance, led by Music Director Mischa Santora and Assistant Conductor Tianyi Ren.
Who dances in the production?
Boston Ballet's company dancers perform it along with 83 students from Boston Ballet School.
Is it suitable for people with sound or light sensitivities?
Some moments have loud music and flashing light. A Sensory Friendly Performance on December 4 is designed for guests who are neurodiverse, have sensory sensitivities or need extra accessibility accommodations.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers. The theater is kept warmer than usual to suit the dancers.
More Christmas Events Near Boston
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