Illustration of a toy nutcracker soldier between red velvet curtains with a Christmas tree and glowing fireplace behind (The Nutcracker)

The Nutcracker

Audiences follow young Clara and her charming Prince on a journey to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. The ballet features iconic characters such as the Snow Queen, the Sugar Plum Fairy, cotton candy angels, reindeer, and pastry chefs. Set to Tchaikovsky's classic score, the production brings the holiday story to life with shimmering costumes and lavish sets.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Tickets starting at $33 - $139. Not eligible for NAC subscriptions.

Hours

Thu-Fri 7:30pm; Sat-Sun 1:30pm and 7:30pm.

Ages

4+

Neighborhood

Downtown Ottawa

Accessibility

Southam Hall offers accessible entrances, parking, seating, washrooms, pick-up and drop-off areas, and hearing devices.

Going?

Location

Southam Hall · 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, Canada Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and ballet fans

Vibe

Magical and festive

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Choose a Saturday, November 28 or 29 matinee if children want the free 20-minute ballet workshop before the performance.
  • Saturday evening attendees can also join the free workshop on November 28 at 6:30 or 6:55 p.m. in Peter H. Herrndorf Place.
  • Under30 tickets cost $15 for eligible guests, including teens and children; availability, seating choices, and eligible performances may be limited.
  • Indigenous community members can select $15 All My Relations tickets, but some performances have limited availability, so buy early.
  • Allow about two hours for the performance, including a 20-minute intermission, when planning travel and post-show arrangements.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Under-30 tickets are available for eligible guests under 30, including teens and children; availability and performance options may be limited.
  • All My Relations tickets are available for eligible Indigenous community members; availability may be limited by performance.
  • Free children’s ballet workshops are offered on November 28 and 29, with sessions before matinees and an additional session before the Saturday evening performance.
  • Evening performances are scheduled Thursday through Sunday; daytime matinee performances are scheduled Saturday and Sunday.

Links & Contact

Run by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens

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

Who is the ballet suitable for?

It is described as a delight for all ages, and is recommended for ages four and up.

How long should I allow for the performance?

The ballet runs for about two hours, including an intermission.

What will I see and hear in the production?

Follow Clara and her Prince through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, with characters including the Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen, dazzling sets, costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s score performed with the NAC Orchestra.

Is there a ballet activity for children?

A separate, free children’s ballet workshop takes place on November 28 and 29. It lasts 20 minutes and introduces fundamental ballet steps.

Are there ticket options for younger audiences?

Under30 tickets are available for guests under 30, including children and teens, for eligible performances. All My Relations tickets welcome members of the Indigenous community; availability is limited for some performances.

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