🎁 10 Ballet Shows to Watch During the Holidays
The holiday season and ballet go hand in hand — from the magic of The Nutcracker to heartwarming contemporary productions that capture the beauty of winter. Whether you’re a lifelong dancer or simply love the elegance of the stage, here are ten ballets that bring sparkle, nostalgia, and artistry to your holidays.
1️⃣ The Nutcracker — Tchaikovsky
No Christmas season is complete without it. Follow Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and the Sugar Plum Fairy through a world of snowflakes, sweets, and timeless music. Nearly every major ballet company performs it each December — check your local theater or stream versions from the Royal Ballet, New York City Ballet, or Bolshoi Ballet.
2️⃣ The Sleeping Beauty — Tchaikovsky
A fairy-tale masterpiece of pure classical technique. With its enchanting “Rose Adagio” and glittering court scenes, it’s a perfect holiday watch for those who love regal, traditional ballet at its finest.
3️⃣ Coppélia — Delibes
Lighthearted and full of humor, Coppélia tells the story of a life-size doll that confuses a small village. Perfect for younger audiences and families who enjoy a bit of whimsy with their ballet.
4️⃣ La Fille Mal Gardée — Ashton, after Dauberval
This cheerful ballet about young love and rustic charm is bursting with joy. It’s a reminder that laughter and lightness are also part of the season’s spirit.
5️⃣ The Snow Queen — Various composers
Based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale that inspired Frozen, this ballet is visually stunning — filled with icy costumes, glittering snow effects, and powerful storytelling.
6️⃣ Giselle — Adam
Though it’s not a Christmas ballet, Giselle’s haunting beauty and themes of forgiveness make it an emotional winter favorite. The ethereal “Wilis” scenes are breathtaking in candlelight performances.
7️⃣ Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland — Christopher Wheeldon / Joby Talbot
A magical mix of dance, humor, and fantasy. Its vibrant sets and costumes make it feel like opening a box of Christmas ornaments — perfect for families.
8️⃣ The Firebird — Stravinsky
A powerful fairytale filled with heroism, magic, and mythical creatures. The vivid music and glowing choreography make it an inspiring winter watch.
9️⃣ Romeo and Juliet — Prokofiev
For those who prefer drama over sugarplums — this timeless story of love and fate is emotionally rich, with some of ballet’s most beautiful pas de deux.
🔟 The Winter’s Tale — Christopher Wheeldon / Joby Talbot
A Shakespearean story of jealousy and redemption, set to a stirring modern score. The Royal Ballet’s production is especially moving and visually spectacular — perfect for cozy winter evenings.
✨ Final Curtain
Whether you’re snuggled on the couch with hot cocoa or sitting in the front row of a grand theater, these ballets bring warmth, wonder, and artistry to the holiday season.
From the twinkling lights of The Nutcracker to the romance of Romeo and Juliet, may your holidays be filled with dance, music, and magic.
Happy holidays from Jacklyn Dougherty
Ballet! 🎄🩰
Much Love
