Nashville's Nutcracker
Choreographed and directed by Paul Vasterling, this holiday ballet takes audiences on a Nashville-inspired adventure filled with swirling snowflakes, whimsical wonders, and characters ranging from the Sugar Plum Fairy to the tiniest baby mouse. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's iconic score is performed live throughout the production by the Nashville Symphony. Before the show, visitors can explore lobby information tables displaying real ballet costumes, shoes, costume sketches, and set models.
What to Expect
Emmy Award-winning holiday ballet featuring live accompaniment by the Nashville Symphony.
Event Details
Duration
Act 1: 51 minutes; intermission: 20 minutes; Act 2: 51 minutes.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Nashville
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Nashville Ballet
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and ballet fans
Vibe
Festive and whimsical
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: November 27: 2 p.m.; November 28: 2 p.m.; December 5: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; December 6: 2 p.m.; December 11: 7 p.m.; December 12: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; December 13: 2 p.m.; December 18: 7 p.m.; December 19: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; December 20: 2 p.m.; December 21: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; December 22: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; December 23: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; December 24: 2 p.m.; December 26: 2 p.m.; December 27: 2 p.m.
- Parking: Garages and surface lots surround TPAC. Valet is at the 6th Avenue entrance, and rideshare zones are on Deaderick Street.
- Accessibility: Accessible parking is located on 6th Avenue, and patrons with special needs attending Andrew Jackson Hall can be dropped off at the corner of Union Street and 6th Avenue.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early, because downtown traffic and parking are unpredictable, doors open about 30 minutes before curtain, and latecomers are held in the lobby.
- If you plan to use valet for a weekday matinee, have a backup option, since valet may not run during downtown business hours.
- Leave cameras, oversized bags and backpacks at home, because recording is prohibited and large bags aren't allowed past the TPAC lobby screening.
- Visit Nashville Ballet's lobby tables before curtain to see real ballet costumes, shoes, costume sketches and set models from the company.
- Book as a group of friends or family to save 15%, and remember that tickets are non-refundable even if a performance is canceled.
Special Events & Promotions
- Homeschool Day for ages 6–9 on November 10, built around Nashville's Nutcracker.
- Nashville's Nutcracker Tea, a separate holiday event.
- Groups save 15% on tickets.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes. It's a holiday ballet for audiences of all ages, with characters from the Sugar Plum Fairy to the tiniest baby mouse.
Is the music live?
Yes. The Nashville Symphony plays Tchaikovsky's score live.
How long is the show?
Each act runs 51 minutes, with a 20-minute intermission between them.
What should I wear?
Most guests wear business casual, and jackets and ties aren't required. During the holidays, some families come in holiday outfits.
Where do I park?
TPAC has many surface lots and garages nearby, most with a fee. Valet is at the 6th Avenue entrance. Street parking is limited, and rideshare zones are on Deaderick Street between 5th and 6th Avenues.
More Christmas Events Near Nashville
More Christmas Events near Nashville
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.