Boston — The holidays are about to sparkle in Boston. Boston Ballet’s critically acclaimed production of Mikko Nissinen’s The Nutcracker returns to the Citizens Opera House from November 27 through December 31, 2026, inviting families to rediscover one of New England’s most beloved traditions.
Created for the company in 2012, this grand staging transforms the stage into a glittering dreamscape, from the warmth of the Silberhaus family party to the sparkling Kingdom of the Sweets. The full Company performs alongside Boston Ballet II dancers and students of the Boston Ballet School, with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score played live by the Boston Ballet Orchestra under music director Mischa Santora.
The production is one of the largest the company has ever built: more than 350 intricately designed costumes by Robert Perdziola, larger-than-life sets, and lighting by renowned Finnish designer Mikki Kunttu. The 45-performance run will feature many dancer debuts in new roles.
Tickets start at $29 (plus a $7 Citizens Opera House fee), and the company reminds audiences to buy directly at bostonballet.org to guarantee the best prices. On Friday, December 5, a special sensory-friendly performance offers an abbreviated 64-minute version with in-theater accommodations for neurodiverse guests.
Photo: Boston Ballet
