The Nutcracker Ballet
Audiences experience John Neumeier's poetic reinterpretation of E.T.A. Hoffmann's tale, following twelve-year-old Marie on a dream journey into the enchanting world of theater. Guided by ballet master Drosselmeier, Marie encounters vibrant rehearsals, grand divertissements, and romance. The performance features dancers from the Bayerisches Staatsballett, sets and costumes by Jürgen Rose, and live accompaniment by the Bayerisches Staatsorchester.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Ticket price categories shown for the performances are €132, €115, €95, €74, €52, €30, €14 and €10.
Hours
December 12, 18, 21 and 28: 19:30; December 25: 15:00 and 19:30; January 1 and 6: 18:00.
Ages
Recommended for ages 6 and up
Neighborhood
Maxvorstadt
Accessibility
Step-free access is available via a side entrance on Maximilianstraße with lifts to all tiers, wheelchair spaces in row 19 of the stalls, an accessible restroom on the 1st tier, and an induction loop system throughout the house.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- The ballet is recommended for children aged six and up, so use this guidance when choosing a performance for your family.
- Arrive up to an hour before the performance to explore the ceremonial halls and portrait gallery.
- Borrow booster cushions for children or shorter viewers from the cloakroom; bring a €50 deposit or driver's license.
- Use the free cloakrooms on any floor to leave coats, umbrellas, and large bags, which must be deposited.
- Keep cameras and recording devices put away during the performance and applause; photos are allowed before, after, or during intermissions.
Special Events & Promotions
- Family performances on December 12, at the Christmas Day afternoon show, and on January 1 and January 6.
- The December 21 performance is part of the house's <30 ticket offer.
Links & Contact
Run by Bayerische Staatsoper
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 contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Nutcracker suitable for children?
It's recommended for ages 6 and up. The family performances are on December 12, the Christmas Day afternoon show, January 1 and January 6.
How long is the ballet?
About 2 hours 20 minutes. It's a ballet in two acts.
Is this the classic Nutcracker story?
John Neumeier tells E.T.A. Hoffmann's tale a little differently. On her 12th birthday Marie is given a nutcracker and a pair of pointe shoes. In a dream, ballet master Drosselmeier leads her into the world of the theater, from a big rehearsal to a full performance where she meets characters from great ballets.
Is the music played live?
Yes. The Bayerisches Staatsorchester plays Tchaikovsky's score, with musical direction by Mikhail Agrest.
Who dances in it?
The ensemble of the Bayerisches Staatsballett dances John Neumeier's choreography. Sets and costumes are by Jürgen Rose. The dancers for the individual roles haven't been announced yet.
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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.