Illustration of a generic entertainment scene (Wind Song Theatre And The Palace Theatre presents The Nutcracker: Magic and Mischief)
Christmas Shows

Wind Song Theatre And The Palace Theatre presents The Nutcracker: Magic and Mischief

After squabbling siblings Clara and Fritz are sent to bed on Christmas Eve, their restless sleep transports them into a dazzling Toy Kingdom. To save the realm, the children must summon their courage and battle the wicked Mouse King. The family stage adventure combines enchanted lands with original songs and musical numbers.

What to Expect

Features original songs by award-winning composer Ashton Moore.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children aged four and above

Vibe

Festive, magical, adventurous

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

None

Location

Palace Theatre, Main Auditorium
430 London Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 9LA
Southend on Sea, Essex

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Tickets from £21.50; the 23 December Relaxed Performance is from £25.50. School groups of 10 or more can get a special rate of £10 per student, plus one free teacher for every 10 students booked. – Get tickets
  • Hours: 16 December 2026: 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM; 17 December 2026: 6:00 PM; 23 December 2026 (Relaxed Performance): 5:00 PM.
  • Accessibility: There is no lift to the Dress Circle (39 steps) or Gallery (65 steps), and dedicated relaxed performances are offered.
  • Pets: Working dogs are welcome; contact the theatre when booking so suitable seating can be arranged.

Tips & Advice

  • Book school groups through the Group Enquiry Form to request the school rate and free teacher places.
  • Choose the Relaxed Performance if a less formal theatre environment would better suit your group.
  • Check your seating location before booking: there is no lift to the Dress Circle or Gallery.
  • Allow for the stairs if seated in the Dress Circle or Gallery, which have 39 and 65 steps respectively.
  • Contact the theatre when booking if bringing a working dog so suitable seating can be arranged.

Special Events & Promotions

  • A Relaxed Performance is scheduled for 23 December 2026.
  • School groups of 10 or more can receive a special student rate.
  • One teacher is free for every 10 students booked by a school group.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the production suitable for young children?

It is suitable for ages four and above.

What is the story about?

Clara and Fritz enter a Toy Kingdom in their sleep and must face the wicked Mouse King to save the realm.

Does the production feature original music?

Yes. It features original songs by composer and musical director Ashton Moore.

Is there a performance designed for audiences who may benefit from a less formal theatre environment?

Yes. A Relaxed Performance is scheduled for 23 December 2026.

Are there discounts for school groups?

School groups of 10 or more can request a special student rate, with one teacher free for every 10 students booked. Use the Group Enquiry Form to make a school booking.

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 29, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team