Illustration of two toy nutcrackers and a snowman on a small stage with red curtains and tiny trees, watched by an audience (The Nutcracker)

The Nutcracker

Audiences experience Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's classic two-act ballet brought to life with brilliant dancing, vibrant costumes, and lighting and scenery by Broadway designers. The production follows young Clara as her gift of a nutcracker doll leads her into an enchanting world where toys and characters come alive. Live music accompanies the performance, led by Music Director and Conductor Jonathan McPhee.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Tickets range from $52 to $79 depending on seat location and availability, including all fees. Save on handling fees by purchasing in person at the box office.

Hours

Fri Nov 27: 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm; Sat Nov 28: 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm; Sun Nov 29: 1:00 pm.

Ages

All Ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Worcester

Food & Drink

At the separate Nov. 15 Cookies & Tea with Clara event, children can eat cookies and sip tea.

Parking

During Worcester snow parking bans, the Federal Plaza Garage may be heavily used; if it is full, the page names the McGrath (Library) Lot and Worcester Common Garage as the next closest parking locations.

Going?

Location

The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory for the Performing Arts · 2 Southbridge St, Worcester, MA 01608 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and fans of classic ballet

Vibe

Festive and theatrical

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Open your MyHanover tickets at least 48 hours before the show and have them up on your phone when you arrive for quick, contactless entry.
  • Buy your tickets in person at The Hanover Theatre box office if you want to save on handling fees.
  • Add Booking Protect when you check out, because it is only offered at the time of purchase and the theatre does not cancel shows for weather.
  • On snowy days, leave extra travel time and head to the McGrath Lot or Worcester Common Garage if Federal Plaza Garage fills during a snow ban.
  • Book Cookies & Tea with Clara on November 15 for young fans who want to meet Clara, remembering that seating is for children while adults stay and watch.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Cookies & Tea with Clara on November 15 is a separate ticketed tea party. Clara and friends read the story, and kids dance, eat cookies and sip tea. Seats are for children only, and adults stay to watch.
  • Booking Protect ticket insurance can be added at purchase. It refunds you if your party can't attend because of illness, injury or extreme weather.

Links & Contact

Run by The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing 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 contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Nutcracker suitable for all ages?

Yes. The Hanover Theatre lists it as an all-ages, family-friendly show.

How long is the performance?

About 2 hours and 6 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission.

Is there a live orchestra?

Yes. The Hanover Theatre Nutcracker Orchestra plays live. Music Director and Conductor Jonathan McPhee, conductor emeritus of Boston Ballet, returns to lead it.

Where can I park if there's a snow ban?

During Worcester snow parking bans, the Federal Plaza Garage fills up with city residents. If it's full, the McGrath (Library) Lot and the Worcester Common Garage are the next closest.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The theatre doesn't cancel shows for bad weather, but it will try to move you to another performance of the same show. Booking Protect ticket insurance can be added when you buy.

Browse Christmas in Worcester

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.

Contributors & Updates

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