Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker
A Nutcracker like no other, Tchaikovsky’s Christmas family favourite is brought to you by Matthew Bourne in his iconic, larger-than-life production. Dazzling audiences since 1992 with its fantasy and irreverence, the show has been refreshed for its 30th anniversary, with plenty of new treats and tweaks.
In Bourne’s bittersweet universe, the young Clara is trapped in a dreary orphanage run by a tyrannical Matron (dressed as a Liquorice Allsort) and the dastardly Dr Dross. On Christmas Eve, she and the other orphans are spirited away by a hunky prince to the candy kingdom of Sweetieland.
Influenced by the lavishness of 1930s musicals, the production is a visual delight, with vivid colours throughout the costumes and set. It’s a choreographic pick ’n mix too, as Bourne sneaks in other styles like tango and rumba, and a sprinkling of physical comedy. His delectable blend of tradition and innovation is a joyful confection from start to finish. BBC Two, 23 December, time TBC