Illustration of a sugar plum dancer on pointe beside a nutcracker soldier on a ballet stage (Royal Ballet Live: The Nutcracker)
Christmas Shows

Royal Ballet Live: The Nutcracker

Audiences can watch a cinema presentation of the Royal Ballet's festive classic. The ballet follows Clara and the magician Drosselmeyer on an enchanting journey through landscapes of snow and glittering confection where toys come alive. Staged by Peter Wright, the production features Tchaikovsky’s orchestral score alongside period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman.

Dec 13 – Dec 27, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Standard £20.50; Concessions £18.50. Tickets from £18.50.

Hours

13 December: 1:45 pm; 20 December: 1:45 pm; 27 December: 2:00 pm.

Food & Drink

Drinks and snacks from the Firstsite Café can be taken into the screening; the café also serves drinks, snacks and meals before or after the film.

Location

Firstsite · Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1JH Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and ballet fans

Vibe

Festive and magical

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Choose one of the three listed screenings and book its separate ticket, since each booking is for the selected screening.
  • Allow 155 minutes for the film when planning your visit.
  • Pick up drinks or snacks at a Firstsite café if you want refreshments in the screening, as they are permitted inside.
  • Treat the published screening details as subject to change, as timings may be adjusted.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Concession tickets are available.
  • Screenings are offered on three Sundays: December 13, 20 and 27.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens in the ballet?

Clara receives a nutcracker doll from Drosselmeyer, then journeys through snowy landscapes and a glittering world where toys come alive.

Is this suitable for families?

The production is described as a festive family favourite, with Clara at the centre of the story.

How long should I allow for the screening?

The film runs for 155 minutes.

Can I bring refreshments into the cinema?

Yes. Drinks and snacks from Firstsite’s cafés can be taken into the screening; the cafés also serve meals before or after the film.

Does one ticket cover all three screenings?

No. Choose and book a ticket for the screening you want; each screening has its own booking link.

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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.

Contributors & Updates

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