The Nutcracker
Audiences follow the Tannenbaum children on a magical journey through a wondrous dreamscape where reality and imagination blur. Dancers from the Milwaukee Ballet Company are joined on stage by students from the Milwaukee Ballet School & Academy. Select performances also feature live musical accompaniment by the Milwaukee Ballet Orchestra.
What to Expect
Michael Pink's imaginative staging featuring dancers, academy students, and live orchestra.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Milwaukee Ballet
Food & Drink
Drinks purchased in the Anello Atrium may be brought into the theater; food and outside food and beverages are not allowed in the auditorium.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and ballet fans
Vibe
Dreamlike and festive
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Dec 5 7:30 PM; Dec 6 1:00 PM; Dec 11 7:30 PM; Dec 12 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM; Dec 13 1:00 PM; Dec 18 7:30 PM; Dec 19 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM; Dec 20 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM; Dec 23 7:30 PM; Dec 24 1:00 PM; Dec 26 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM.
- Parking: Use street parking nearby or the Marcus Center Parking Structure a block north, which is cheaper if you pay ahead. It often fills on sold-out nights.
- Accessibility: Handicap parking stalls are available in the adjacent parking structure, which connects directly to the center via a third-floor skywalk.
Tips & Advice
- Pay for the Marcus Center garage in advance if you're driving, because day-of parking costs more and the structure often fills on sold-out nights.
- Pick a Live Orchestra date if you want the Milwaukee Ballet Orchestra playing, because some performances don't have live music.
- Get your drinks and snacks in the Anello Atrium beforehand or at intermission, because only drinks are allowed in the theater.
- Read the street signs carefully if you park on the surrounding blocks, because there are hours and restrictions near the venue.
- Allow extra travel and parking time in bad weather, because the garage can back up on busy nights.
Special Events & Promotions
- Live Milwaukee Ballet Orchestra at the December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 and 24 performances.
- Sensory-friendly performance returns in 2026, with a character meet-and-greet before the show.
- Three discounted student matinees, only for public, private and home-school student groups.
- Subscribers save on single ticket prices.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who performs in The Nutcracker?
Milwaukee Ballet Company dancers, joined by students from Milwaukee Ballet School & Academy, in Michael Pink's The Nutcracker: Drosselmeyer's Imaginarium.
Is there live music at every performance?
No. Only select performances have the Milwaukee Ballet Orchestra playing live, so look for the Live Orchestra label when you choose a date.
Can I eat or drink during the show?
Drinks and some food are sold in the Anello Atrium before the show and at intermission. Only drinks are allowed inside the theater, and outside food and drinks are not permitted.
Where should I park?
There's metered street parking around the venue, or the Marcus Center Parking Structure a block north. A skywalk on its third floor leads straight into the Marcus Center.
Is there a performance for people with sensory needs?
Yes. A sensory-friendly performance returns in 2026, adapted for children, families and people with autism or other sensory processing needs. It includes a character meet-and-greet beforehand.
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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.