Ruth Page's The Nutcracker
This holiday classic brings to life Clara, her mysterious godfather magician, a handsome prince, toy soldiers battling mice, and dancing snowflakes. The performance features Tchaikovsky's score, imaginative sets depicting the Land of Snow and Kingdom of the Sweets, and elaborate costumes. Dancers from the Ruth Page Civic Ballet share the stage with international guest artists and local south suburban dance students.
Dec 5 – Dec 6, 2026 5+
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Tickets
Prime Orchestra: Adult $59; GovState Faculty/Staff $50; GovState Basic Alumni Members $50; Seniors $50; Child 17 & Under $20. Rear Orchestra: Adult $49; GovState Faculty/Staff $42; GovState Basic Alumni Members $42; Seniors $42; Students $20; Child 17 & Under $20. Box Seats: Adult $74; GovState Faculty/Staff $63; GovState Basic Alumni Members $63; Seniors $63; Child 17 & Under $20. Front Balcony: Adult $49; GovState Faculty/Staff $42; GovState Basic Alumni Members $42; Seniors $42; Students $20; Child 17 & Under $20. Front Orchestra & Mezzanine: Adult $39; GovState Faculty/Staff $33; GovState Basic Alumni Members $33; Seniors $33; Students $20; Child 17 & Under $20.
Hours
Saturday 2 PM; Sunday 3 PM.
Neighborhood
South Suburbs
Parking
Free parking is mentioned.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Use the free parking at The Center for Performing Arts and skip the drive downtown to see one of Chicago's Nutcracker productions.
- Bring children five and older, the recommended age, and plan on about two hours for the performance, including the intermission.
- Pick senior, student, child or GovState faculty, staff and alumni tickets when they apply, since those cost less than adult seats.
- Pick up tickets or get help at the box office, which opens two hours before showtime on performance days.
Special Events & Promotions
- Lower-priced tickets for seniors, children 17 and under, students in select sections, and GovState faculty, staff and Basic Alumni Members.
Links & Contact
Run by Ruth Page Center for the Arts
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
How long is the show?
About two hours, including an intermission.
What ages is it best for?
It's recommended for ages 5 and up.
Who performs?
Local dance students from the south suburbs dance alongside international guest artists and the Ruth Page Civic Ballet's elite dancers.
What makes this Nutcracker different?
It's the only production that recreates Ruth Page's original full-length staging. It has Tchaikovsky's score and sets for the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is free.
Browse Christmas in Park Forest
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.