The Australian Ballet returns to the Ian Potter State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne this October with Peter Wright’s beloved production of The Nutcracker. Marking the Company’s first performance in the theatre since its major refurbishment in March 2024, this season celebrates a long-awaited homecoming to one of Melbourne’s most important performing arts venues.

Performances run 24 – 31 October and feature live accompaniment by Orchestra Victoria.

A classical festive ballet for Melbourne audiences
A cornerstone of the classical repertoire, The Nutcracker is one of The Australian Ballet’s most recognised and cherished productions. First staged by the Company in 2007, Peter Wright’s version is known for its traditional storytelling, grand staging, and detailed character work, drawing on the classical foundations of Marius Petipa.

Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, including the instantly recognisable Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, the production blends sweeping music with detailed storytelling and large-scale ensemble scenes.

Story overview
The Nutcracker follows Clara, a young ballet student celebrating Christmas Eve with her family. When she receives a nutcracker doll from the mysterious Drosselmeyer, she is drawn into a dreamlike journey where toys come to life, battles unfold between mice and soldiers, and the nutcracker transforms into a prince.

Clara travels through the magical Land of Snow and into the colourful Kingdom of Sweets, where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy and witnesses a series of dances representing different characters and confections. The story concludes with Clara waking at home, unsure whether the journey was real or imagined.

Production highlights
This production features the richly detailed sets and costumes of John F. Macfarlane, bringing Clara’s world to life, from her Edwardian home through to the shimmering Land of Snow and the vibrant Kingdom of Sweets.

It is widely regarded as one of the most visually striking interpretations of The Nutcracker, with large ensemble scenes, classical variations, and signature moments such as the Waltz of the Flowers.

Event details
Production: The Nutcracker
Company: The Australian Ballet
Dates: 24 – 31 October
Venue: Ian Potter State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne
Music: Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Choreography: Peter Wright (after Lev Ivanov and Vincent Redmon)
Design: John F. Macfarlane
Performed with: Orchestra Victoria

Please note: Children under the age of 15 must be under the supervision of a responsible adult (18 years of age or older) at all times.

Image Credit: Daniel Boud