The Nutcracker is the story of a young girl, Clara, who receives a special gift from her Uncle Drosselmeyer at her family’s annual holiday party. A variety of magical dolls entertain the guests, but Clara’s gift, a magnificent Nutcracker doll, is the best of all. Herbrother Fritz is unhappy with his own gift and is very jealous of Clara’s. With the help of his friends, Fritz snatches the Nutcracker from Clara and breaks it. Uncle Drosselmeyer is able to repair thedoll, and the party continues happily. After the guests leave, Clarafalls into a deep sleep, nestling with her prized doll. The clock strikes twelve and Clara awakes to find herself on a battlefield of mice and rats, with a menacing Rat King, life size toy soldiers and the Nutcracker. The battle’s fate is decided when the rivals duel to the death. Clara and her Guardian Angel then travel on a magical journey through the Kingdom of Snow and Land of Sweets. Back at home Clara awakens to tell Mother and Father of her wonderful adventure. It was only a dream - or was it?

When this simple story is combined with the power of Tchaikovsky’s music, the result is a cherished classic, beloved by all ages.