Guide to Nutcracker Performances Around Memphis
The magic of the holiday season comes to life each year as stages across Memphis transform into magical winter wonderlands for The Nutcracker. Whether you are looking for a grand professional production, a child-friendly performance, or a Memphis twist on the beloved classic, the MidSouth offers a variety of shows to delight every family. These local Nutcracker performances are sure to spark wonder and create lasting holiday memories!
Here’s your guide to all the local Nutcracker performances:
Nut Remix: New Ballet Ensemble
Performed by New Ballet Ensemble and accompanied by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra and the Memphis Jazz Workshop, this twist on the traditional Nutcracker is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. This remixed classical Tchaikovsky score shows off dynamic choreography, including hip-hop, Memphis Jookin, Spanish dance, and West African dance and drumming. This ballet is perfect for all ages, but especially younger kids as the energy of the entire show keeps them on the edge of their seats.
November 21-23, Cannon Center for the Performing Arts
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Ballet Memphis’ Nutcracker Tea
If you’re worried that your little one won’t be able to sit still for an entire performance, introduce your child to the characters of the ballet at the annual Nutcracker Tea, hosted at the iconic Peabody Hotel. Sponsored by Ballet Memphis, this popular event that has been a favorite for families to meet student dancers, play games, make crafts, and of course drink tea (with delicious goodies & treats too). *This event is fairly formal and the perfect excuse to put your child in their holiday best!
December 7 at 2pm, Peabody Hotel
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The Nutcracker: Ballet Memphis
If you’re ready to go big and commit to the full Nutcracker experience, head to the professional ballet performance by Ballet Memphis. Featuring live music from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra playing the iconic Tchaikovsky score and exquisite sets and costumes, this show brings people together through an uplifting classic tale told in a new way.
December 12-14, Orpheum Theatre
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Nutcracker: Land of Enchanted Sweets: Buckman Dance Conservatory
With a run-time of approximately an hour, “Land of Enchanted Sweets” still tells the classic story but in a fun new way. This production features dancers from St. Mary’s Episcopal School’s Buckman Dance Conservatory. In addition to the performance, the Sweet Shop is available with beautiful nutcracker and ballet-themed keepsakes to remember the experience.
December 5-7, Buckman Performing & Fine Arts Center
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Clara & The Nutcracker: Children’s Ballet Theater
This performance features both professional dancers from Tennessee Ballet Theater and children/teens from the titular East Memphis troupe. But just because the majority of the cast consists of amateur dancers doesn’t mean that the quality won’t be top-notch. Your aspiring dancer might even be able to envision her/himself up on stage after attending. *If this show is one of your holiday traditions, please take note that the venue has changed and will be on the campus of the University of Memphis–with free garage parking(!) on show days.
December 6-7, University of Memphis Rose Theater
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The Nutcracker Ballet: Esprit de Corps Dance Troupe
Bartlett isn’t about to let Memphis proper have all the fun. The Singleton Community Center Esprit de Corps dance troupe’s rendition of The Nutcracker includes all of the classic elements of the ballet–from Clara to the Sugar Plum Fairy–at a more affordable price point. Definitely worth a trip outside the loop for stubborn Midtowners!
December 12-14, Barlett Performing Arts Center
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The Nutcracker: Collierville Ballet
Their full-length ballet features the company dancers of the Collierville Ballet with professional guest artists performing the lead roles of the Snow Queen and Snow King and Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier. Enjoy the enchanting classical score by Tchaikovsky and share in the delight of this holiday classic and tradition with the Collierville Ballet.
December 20-21, Harrell Theatre
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The Nutcracker: World Ballet Company
Didn’t have time to catch the ballet during the busy lead-up to the holidays? Never fear: the World Ballet Company has you covered with a special performance on Christmas Eve at 2pm. The Los Angeles-based ballet company boasts 40 professional dancers from all over the world, and their Broadway-caliber production of the Nutcracker ballet is sure to soften even the biggest Grinch’s heart.
December 24, Cannon Center for the Performing Arts
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