The Nutcracker Ballet
Audiences experience John Neumeier's poetic reinterpretation of E.T.A. Hoffmann's tale, following twelve-year-old Marie on a dream journey into the enchanting world of theater. Guided by ballet master Drosselmeier, Marie encounters vibrant rehearsals, grand divertissements, and romance. The performance features dancers from the Bayerisches Staatsballett, sets and costumes by Jürgen Rose, and live accompaniment by the Bayerisches Staatsorchester.
What to Expect
John Neumeier's poetic two-act ballet set to Tchaikovsky's music.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
Ages
Recommended for ages 6 and up
Neighborhood
Maxvorstadt
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Bayerische Staatsoper
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children aged six and up
Vibe
Poetic and theatrical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
€€€
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Ticket price categories shown for the performances are €132, €115, €95, €74, €52, €30, €14 and €10. – Get tickets
- Hours: December 12, 18, 21 and 28: 19:30; December 25: 15:00 and 19:30; January 1 and 6: 18:00.
- Accessibility: Step-free access is available via a side entrance on Maximilianstraße with lifts to all tiers, wheelchair spaces in row 19 of the stalls, an accessible restroom on the 1st tier, and an induction loop system throughout the house.
Tips & Advice
- The ballet is recommended for children aged six and up, so use this guidance when choosing a performance for your family.
- Arrive up to an hour before the performance to explore the ceremonial halls and portrait gallery.
- Borrow booster cushions for children or shorter viewers from the cloakroom; bring a €50 deposit or driver's license.
- Use the free cloakrooms on any floor to leave coats, umbrellas, and large bags, which must be deposited.
- Keep cameras and recording devices put away during the performance and applause; photos are allowed before, after, or during intermissions.
Special Events & Promotions
- Family performances on December 12, at the Christmas Day afternoon show, and on January 1 and January 6.
- The December 21 performance is part of the house's <30 ticket offer.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Nutcracker suitable for children?
It's recommended for ages 6 and up. The family performances are on December 12, the Christmas Day afternoon show, January 1 and January 6.
How long is the ballet?
About 2 hours 20 minutes. It's a ballet in two acts.
Is this the classic Nutcracker story?
John Neumeier tells E.T.A. Hoffmann's tale a little differently. On her 12th birthday Marie is given a nutcracker and a pair of pointe shoes. In a dream, ballet master Drosselmeier leads her into the world of the theater, from a big rehearsal to a full performance where she meets characters from great ballets.
Is the music played live?
Yes. The Bayerisches Staatsorchester plays Tchaikovsky's score, with musical direction by Mikhail Agrest.
Who dances in it?
The ensemble of the Bayerisches Staatsballett dances John Neumeier's choreography. Sets and costumes are by Jürgen Rose. The dancers for the individual roles haven't been announced yet.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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