The Washington Ballet's The Nutcracker
Set in 1882 Georgetown, this American history-themed ballet pits George Washington as the Nutcracker against King George III as the Rat King. Audiences watch dancing dolls like Lady Liberty and John Paul Jones, a soaring Bald Eagle, and cherry blossoms in full bloom. The journey continues with vibrant woodland creatures, frontier dancers, and a grand pas de deux performed by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier.
What to Expect
An all-American holiday ballet set in 1882 Georgetown.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 2 Hours.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Washington Ballet
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and ballet fans
Vibe
Whimsical and patriotic
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Group ticket prices before discount vary by performance and seat level. Saturday matinees: Level 1 $180, Level 2 $150, Level 3 $121, Level 4 $93, Level 5 $61; Saturday evenings: $170, $140, $111, $83, $51, respectively. Sunday matinees: $180, $150, $121, $93, $61; Sunday evenings: $159, $129, $99, $79, $49, respectively. Tuesdays and Wednesdays: $159, $129, $99, $79, $49, respectively. Thursdays: $170, $140, $111, $83, $51, respectively. Fridays: $180, $150, $121, $93, $61, respectively. Group discounts: 10% for parties of 10–15, 15% for parties of 15–20, and 20% for parties of 20. Group sales require a minimum of 10 people; the page also says ticket prices can be as low as $41. – Get tickets
Tips & Advice
- Book group tickets through the group request process if attending with at least 10 people, as discounts are available for qualifying groups.
- Arrange the group deposit to reserve tickets and complete payment two weeks before the performance.
- For a group order of 15 or more tickets, collect every ticket at Will Call.
- If buying tickets for multiple dates, arrange to collect all tickets at Will Call.
- Allow approximately two hours for the performance.
Special Events & Promotions
- Groups of 10 or more receive ticket discounts.
- 2026/27 season subscribers can save on tickets.
- Saturday and Sunday performances include evening sessions.
- The December 24 performances are daytime sessions.
- The December 22 and 23 performances start earlier than the other evening performances.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I allow for the performance?
The ballet runs for approximately two hours.
What is distinctive about this production?
Set in 1882 Georgetown, it combines holiday tradition and American history, including George Washington as the Nutcracker and King George III as the Rat King.
What dances and characters feature in the story?
The production includes dancing dolls such as Lady Liberty and John Paul Jones, woodland creatures, frontier dancers, and a grand pas de deux by the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier.
Are group ticket discounts available?
Groups of 10 or more can receive discounts. Group orders require a non-refundable deposit to reserve tickets, with full payment due two weeks before the performance.
What should groups know about collecting tickets?
For orders of 15 or more tickets, or purchases spanning multiple dates, all tickets must be picked up at Will Call.
More Christmas Events near Washington
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