The Nutcracker
Imperial Classical Ballet® presents The Nutcracker at Vaillant Live on November 7, 2026. The performance features Tchaikovsky’s score played by a full live orchestra and tells the story of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince.
What to Expect
Iconic ballet with live orchestral performance
Event Details
Duration
Doors open 6:30 PM, Event starts 7:30 PM
Ages
Under 14s in seated area need to be with someone aged 16 or over. Under 14s not allowed in standing area. 14-15 year olds must be with someone 16 or over.
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Imperial Classical Ballet®
Food & Drink
Multi-course small plate dining menu served pre-show with premium tickets. Food and beverages available for purchase at bars. Complimentary nibbles served on arrival with premium tickets. Free tap water available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, ballet enthusiasts, date nights
Vibe
Enchanting, classic, festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
None
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Recommended parking is at Derbion car park (DE1 2NS), a 7-minute walk away. Evening parking is £3 after 5 PM in Centre and Basement car parks. Blue Badge parking is available on Becket Street (DE1 1HT) and Abbey Street car park. Several other city centre car parks are also available.
- Accessibility: Vaillant Live has been designed to be accessible to everyone. Step-free access is available to the venue's main entrance and to accessible seating via lifts to upper floors. Concourse bars feature lowered access for those using wheelchairs. A Changing Places toilet is available on the ground floor. Hearing loops are available to borrow from the Information Desk.
- Pets: Service animals only
Tips & Advice
- Consider booking a premium ticket for an enhanced experience, including pre-show dining and fast-track access.
- Arrive early, especially if purchasing tickets on the day, as the box office opens only one hour before doors open.
- For the most comfortable journey, utilize the Derbion car park's evening rate of £3 after 5 PM for evening performances.
- If you have specific accessibility needs, contact hello@vaillantlive.co.uk in advance for assistance with booking and venue information.
- Check the event page for any specific prohibited items, as bag policies can vary per event, with a general size limit of 40x35x19 cm.
Special Events & Promotions
- Premium ticket packages include multi-course small plate dining menu, fast-track access, private priority entrance, dedicated hosts, private cloakroom, bar access, complimentary nibbles, premium balcony seating, and interval drinks service.
- Live Lounge Access premium tickets include fast-track access, private priority entrance, dedicated hosts, private cloakroom, premium bar access, complimentary nibbles, premium balcony seating, and interval drinks service (food available for purchase on the night).
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the bag policy for the venue?
For security reasons, backpacks and rucksacks of any size, plus any other bags larger than 40 x 35 x 19 cm, are not allowed. Luggage cannot be stored in the venue. Please check the specific event page as policies may differ.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
Confectionary is permitted, but drinks cannot be brought into the venue. If you have a medical condition or need to bring baby milk, please email customer services. Free tap water is available from all bars.
What are the stage times for the event?
Doors open at 6:30 PM and the event starts at 7:30 PM. Specific stage times for individual acts are not usually listed as they can change, so plan your journey to arrive early.
How do I book accessible tickets?
Accessible tickets are sold through Ticketmaster. Visit the event page, select 'all ticket types', then 'Accessible Tickets' and choose your required options, including essential companion tickets.
What is the parking situation?
The recommended parking is at Derbion car park (DE1 2NS), a 7-minute walk away. Evening parking is £3 after 5 PM. Blue Badge parking is available on Becket Street and Abbey Street car parks.
More Christmas Events near Derby
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.