The Nutcracker, based on a tale by Ernest Hoffman and choreographed by
Ivanov to the music of Tchaikovsky, was first performed before the Czar
of Russia in St. Petersburg in 1892. It was brought to the United States
in 1940, where in its various interpretations has evolved into a beloved
holiday classic.
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The curtain rises in the living room of Herr Silberhaus. It is Christmas Eve
and family and friends gather together to celebrate. Clara is enchanted by
the festivities. The proceedings are interrupted by the appearance of
mysterious Uncle Drosselmier bringing magical presents for the party. Clara and Fritz
argue, after which Uncle Drosselmier presents his neice Clara with a special
Christmas gift, a Nutcracker doll.
Clara finds it hard to sleep, so she steals into the living room to see
her Nutcracker doll. As the clock strikes midnight, she becomes dazed.
Clara awakens to see the Christmas tree magically growing, and her Nutcracker
doll comes to life to battle with the Mouse King. The Nutcracker is transformed
into a handsome prince who travels with Clara throughout the Land of Snow.
Clara and her Nutcracker Prince visit the Kingdom of Sweets. The Sugar Plum
Fairy asks Clara to recount her adventures and Clara is rewarded for her
bravery. The Nutcracker Prince summons the sweets and spices from around
the world to dance for Clara. As Clara awakens on Christmas morning cradling
her Nutcracker doll, she realizes Unce Drosselmier has given her a wonderful
present--the gift of a special dream!