The Nutcracker
Audiences follow young Marie on an imaginative adventure sparked by a wooden nutcracker gifted by her mysterious Aunt Drosselmeier. This contemporary production pairs Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's iconic score with original choreography, scenic designs, costumes, and video projections. Attendees can also enjoy live music performed by Jacobs School of Music musicians under the baton of Arthur Fagen.
Dec 4 – Dec 12, 2026
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
Regular prices: Center Orchestra $59; Side/Rear Orchestra $54; First Balcony Premium (boxes A, B, C) $65; First Balcony $54; Second Balcony Premium (boxes A, B, C) $39; Second Balcony $34; Third Balcony $29. No student discount. The new pricing structure removes all ticket processing fees.
Hours
7:30 PM for Dec. 4, 11, and 12; 2 PM for Dec. 5, 6, and 12.
Food & Drink
Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase in the main lobby before performances and at intermission; covered drinks may enter the auditorium, but food may not.
Parking
Free parking is available at several nearby locations on Friday performance evenings and all day Saturday and Sunday; paid parking is also available at the Indiana Memorial Union. Limited accessible parking is in the MAC lot, with drop-off at the circle drive.
Accessibility
Accessible seating locations, elevators, restrooms, and limited ADA parking spaces are provided, with passenger drop-off permitted in the circle drive.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive on campus at least thirty minutes before the performance to allow time to find parking; late seating is not permitted.
- Choose clothing you feel comfortable wearing, as the venue has no dress code.
- If you want a pre-performance talk, check whether one is offered for your performance; talks are held before most performances.
- Use a nearby free parking location on Friday performance evenings or on Saturday and Sunday, and check signs for parking details.
- If you need assistance or accessible seating, advise the box office when ordering tickets.
Special Events & Promotions
- Discounted rates are available for groups of 10 or more.
- Performances are afternoon-only on December 5 and 6; December 12 has both afternoon and evening performances.
- The new pricing structure removes all ticket processing fees.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the story of this production?
It follows Marie on an imaginative adventure sparked by a wooden nutcracker gifted by her mysterious Aunt Drosselmeier.
What can audiences see and hear?
The contemporary ballet pairs Tchaikovsky’s score with choreography, scenic designs, costumes and video projections, with Arthur Fagen conducting.
Are there talks before the performance?
Complimentary pre-performance talks for ticket holders take place in the Gingold Foyer before most performances, with background and production insights.
Can I buy refreshments at the venue?
Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are available in the main lobby before performances and at intermission. Food is not permitted in the auditorium.
What should I wear, and is the venue accessible?
There is no dress code. Accessible seating, elevators and restrooms are provided; request assistance when ordering tickets.
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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.