The Nutcracker, London
Lev Ivanov’s 1892 ballet wasn’t widely admired when it was premiered in Russia, but it is now in the repertory of almost every classical company in the world, its story of Clara and her journey to the Kingdom Of The Sweets – with music by Tchaikovsky – re-imagined many ways. This week, the Royal Ballet’s traditional version competes for seasonal takings with the more colourful, gimmicky production by Wayne Eagling for English National Ballet. Both promise the Nutcracker staples: Christmas magic and snow, and a stage full of glitter-clad dancers.
Royal Opera House, WC2, to 14 Jan (Royal Ballet); London Coliseum, WC2, Wed to 16 Jan (English National Ballet)
The Little Match Girl, London
Arthur Pita’s enchantingly quirky adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen tale makes for one of the great family dance shows this Christmas. Its original material may sound unpromising – Andersen’s tale is a story about an impoverished street child who finds happiness only when united with her dead grandmother in heaven. Yet Pita, his excellent designers and musical collaborator Frank Moon transport the narrative to an irresistibly funny and dangerous place, mixing ballet, Italian comic opera and pantomime to unexpectedly beguiling effect.
