The Nutcracker

Performance Details

When December 3–27, 2022
Where Lyric Opera House
Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon
Music Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Running Time 2 hours

Magic is on the horizon for young Marie and the Nutcracker Prince, thanks to a visit from the charming but mysterious Great Impresario. At the stroke of midnight on a snowy Christmas Eve when the lines between fantasy and reality blur together, Marie sets out on an unforgettable journey through Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, a marvel of sights, sounds, and enchantment. This annual holiday tradition celebrates the magic of the season and the rich cultural heritage of Chicago. Pricing and availability vary by performance. All performances take place at Lyric Opera House.

Download Program Book

Joffrey leadership welcomes you to 'The Nutcracker', with additional notes and insights from the artists.

View & Download

Casting

Find casting information for 'The Nutcracker'.

Casting

Praise for The Nutcracker

”Pure winter magic. The Joffrey Ballet’s altogether unique production of The Nutcracker has never looked more glorious or been danced more ideally.“

WTTW Chicago Read the Review

“Carefully altered for its transplant to the Lyric Opera House, the holiday favorite still feels fresh and spontaneous.”

Chicago Sun-Times Read the Review

“A palpable sense of excitement filled the Lyric Opera’s lobbies as families dressed in their holiday finest filed in for the opening matinee of Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker.”

Chicago Tribune Read the Review

The Nutcracker Springs to Life

The mysterious Great Impresario brings the magic of the season to life.

The Joffrey’s beloved version of The Nutcracker takes inspiration from Chicago's 1893 World's Fair, one of the city’s great historical attractions of the late 19th century.