It simply wouldn’t be the holidays without The Nutcracker. That’s why we’re excited that Vancouver’s own Goh Ballet will soon be bringing the beloved show to life along with some international stars.
Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker is taking over the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for five performances from December 19 to 22.
With its iconic musical score by Tchaikovsky played live by the Vancouver Opera Orchestra and a diverse cast of over 250 dancers, watching this ballet in December is a tradition that spans generations. Tickets start at just $28 and are on sale now.
“We are honoured to uphold The Nutcracker as Vancouver’s beloved ballet tradition, continually evolving its artistry to inspire audiences,” said Chan Hon Goh, executive producer, in a release. “This year, our Snow Scene has been revitalized with new elements, including dancing reindeers and a stunning snowfall of shimmering, twirling snowflakes that celebrate our cast’s exceptional talent.”
“It’s been a joy to be hands-on in designing these details, from costume creation to staging the interactions, bringing new magic to each performance.”
The heartwarming production will take guests on a magical adventure through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets. Audiences of all ages will join Clara on her journey through the Land of Snow and the Lemonade Sea to the Kingdom of The Sugar Plum Fairy.
Visiting principal dancers, including internationally renowned Benjamin Freemantle (Cavalier Prince), Lyrica Woodruff (Sugar Plum Fairy), and dancers from the National Ballet of China, will share the stage with performers from 11 countries. They will bring the magical adventure to life, dressed in glittering costumes on the towering, hand-painted sets.
“I love my job and I love what I get to do. I get to make shapes, and talk to people, connect, and play pretend,” shared Port Moody’s own Freemantle in a statement. “I’m really excited to go back and be inspired by the younger cast members and have them be inspired by me.
“It creates a circle of inspiration, of professionalism, of childlike wonder, and adventure.”
Younger audience members are invited to dance with The Nutcracker characters before each show, and all ages are invited to the pre-show meet and greets to see several of the intricate costumes up close. There will also be Snow Scene and Kingdom of the Sweets vignettes for holiday photo ops in the Queen Elizabeth lobby.
Don’t miss out on the epic battle between the heroic Nutcracker and the evil Mouse King and his army of mischievous mice. Tickets are available now at GohNutcracker.com.
When: December 19 to 22, 2024
Time: 7:30 pm (Thursday, Friday, Saturday), 2 pm (Saturday and Sunday)
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre — 630 Hamilton Street
Tickets: Various prices starting at just $28, purchase at GohNutcracker.com