The Nutcracker, one of the most beloved ballets in the world, is back on stage at the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater. The State Ballet of Georgia presents Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s two-act masterpiece, which tells the story of a young girl’s magical journey on Christmas Eve.
The ballet, which premiered in 1892, has become a holiday tradition for many families around the world. The Nutcracker features some of the most recognizable music in classical ballet, such as the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Waltz of the Flowers.
The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater has a long history of performing The Nutcracker, dating back to 1929. The current production, which debuted in 2016, is staged by the renowned choreographers Alexey Fadeechev and Nina Ananiashvili, who is also the artistic director of the State Ballet of Georgia.
The production features stunning sets and costumes by David Popiashvili and Ana Kalatozishvili, and lighting design by Virginio Levrio. The Tbilisi Z. Paliashvili Opera and Ballet State Theatre Orchestra, conducted by Papuna Ghvaberidze, provides the live musical accompaniment.
The Nutcracker showcases the talent and skill of the State Ballet of Georgia, which is composed of more than 80 dancers from different countries. The lead roles of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince are alternated by several soloists, such as Nino Samadashvili, Ekaterine Chubinidze, Lali Kandelaki, Nutsa Chekurashvili, Philip Fedulov, and Frank Van Tongeren.
The ballet also features guest artists from other prestigious companies, such as the Bolshoi Theatre, the Mariinsky Theatre, and the Royal Ballet. For instance, the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy is performed by Olga Smirnova, a principal dancer of the Bolshoi Theatre, and the role of the Cavalier is performed by Kimin Kim, a principal dancer of the Mariinsky Theatre.
The Nutcracker is a perfect treat for the whole family, as it offers a captivating spectacle of dance, music, and fantasy. The ballet transports the audience to a world of wonder and joy, where toys come to life, snowflakes dance in the air, and dreams come true.
The Nutcracker will run until January 14, 2024, at the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater. The tickets are sold out for most of the performances, but there might be some available at the box office on the day of the show. For more information, visit the official website of the theater or the online ticketing platform.
