Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite
Giacomo Smith’s Big Band brings Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's celebrated jazz adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite to life. Audiences will hear bombastic full-band arrangements such as 'Peanut Briddle Brigade' alongside sparser selections like 'Sugar Rum Cherry' and 'Chinoiserie'. The evening also showcases original works by Giacomo Smith and rare selections from the big band canon.
What to Expect
Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's swinging jazz reimagining of Tchaikovsky.
Event Details
Duration
It also gives a general estimate that most events last 2–2½ hours, with evening events generally finishing no later than 10pm Monday to Saturday and 9pm on Sundays.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Jazz fans and nutcracker listeners
Vibe
Swinging, elegant and seasonal
Energy Level
Low
Budget
££
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Prices from £34.50 (£30.00 + £4.50 transaction fee). Ticket prices: £44.50, £39.50, £34.50. Online bookings have a £4.50 transaction fee per booking, not per ticket; no booking fee applies to Encore members or bookings made in person at the box office. – Get tickets
- Hours: 7.30pm.
Tips & Advice
- Review the interactive seating plan before choosing seats to see the view from your selected position.
- If you are an Encore member, use your membership when booking to avoid the booking fee.
- Consider booking in person at the box office if you want to avoid the online booking fee.
- Allow some flexibility after the performance because its running time has not yet been confirmed.
Special Events & Promotions
- Encore members pay no booking fee.
- Bookings made in person at the box office have no booking fee.
- Mailing-list sign-up gives access to pre-sale tickets.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite?
Giacomo Smith’s Big Band performs Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s jazz adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite.
What musical styles can I expect in the suite?
The arrangements range from full-band pieces such as “Peanut Briddle Brigade” to sparser selections such as “Sugar Rum Cherry” and “Chinoiserie.”
Are other works included in the concert?
The performance also features original compositions by Giacomo Smith and rare selections from Ellington and the big band canon.
Can I check the view from my seat before booking?
Yes. Cadogan Hall has an interactive seating plan showing the view from your chosen seat.
Can Encore members avoid the online booking fee?
Yes. No booking fee applies to Encore members or to bookings made in person at the box office.
More Christmas Events near Chelsea
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