Your Guide to The Nutcracker with Small Kids
Whether your child is ready for the full-length show or not, we've got options for you!
By Arianna Gervasio, Macaroni KID West Seattle
November 30, 2021
Image Credit: Moscow Ballet
With its whimsical sets, talented dancers, and timeless music, The Nutcracker is a cherished holiday tradition beloved by both adults and children. But a family visit to the theater comes with special challenges, especially if you have small children. How do you know if your kiddo is ready? What alternatives are available for a family that wants to experience the show, but whose child isn’t quite ready to sit still in a dark theater for 2+ hours? Macaroni KID West Seattle has you covered with tips, tricks, and alternate Nutcracker shows sure to make this a memorable performance for your little one.
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When most people think of The Nutcracker, they think of PNB’s yearly production at McCaw Hall at the Seattle Center. Since 2015, PNB has been performing George Balanchine’s choreography alongside spectacular sets designed by Ian Falconer (author and illustrator of the beloved “Olivia” children’s books). The show is a gorgeous retelling of E.T.A. Hoffman’s tale, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, and showcases Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite with a live orchestra. With a runtime of just over 2 hours though, it may not be the right introduction to The Nutcracker for a small kiddo. If your child is ready for the big show, here are some tips and tricks to help make this an enjoyable performance for everyone:
-Arrive Early! Doors open 2 hours before the start of the performance and there is a LOT to do before the show. All along the lobby you’ll find beautiful set pieces to snap photos with, a beautiful gift shop, concessions stands, a seated restaurant, roaming magicians, and even some cast members to meet and snap a photo with. In addition to all the fun inside McCaw Hall, the Seattle Center Winterfest is happening right outside and includes ice sculpting, a winter train and village, performances, and tons of Christmas lights. Explore Winterfest before making your way indoors for all of the Nutcracker fun.
-Pre-Order Concessions! Yes, McCaw Hall allows you to pre-order your intermission snacks and treats so you can skip the line during the 25 minute intermission. There are plenty of options including small plates, sandwiches, wine, cupcakes, and Nutcracker-themed cookies.
-Booster Seats! McCaw Hall provides complimentary booster cushions for all children and adults under 5 feet tall. Trust this 410” mom when she says they make a huge difference. Make sure you arrive early to ensure you can grab one before they’re gone.
-Read The Nutcracker! Because this ballet has no speaking or singing, it might be difficult for your child to follow the story. If you are seeing this particular show, I highly recommend reading The Nutcracker book illustrated by Valeria Docampo because it is based on the George Balanchine’s choreography- the same choreography used by Pacific Northwest Ballet.
-Dress Up! The Nutcracker is such a special milestone for children- everyone remembers their first Nutcracker. Make it a special night by dressing up for the theater. You’ll see many families in their best Christmas outfits, so join in and take advantage of the beautiful scenery to take your family holiday photos as well.
Think you might need to wait a year or two for the big show? No problem! There are plenty of other live Nutcracker performances taking place all over the Greater Seattle area this holiday season.
If your child isn’t able to sit through a 2 hour long production, then ARC Dance’s Nutcracker Sweets is a great option for your little one. This 45 minute kid-friendly production showcases both students of the dance school and members of the professional company. Treats are available for pre-order and can be enjoyed before or after the performance. This show sells out every year, so don’t hesitate to get your tickets!
Performance Dates: Dec 3-5, 10-12, 17-19
The Nutcracker presented by Momentum Dance Academy and Ensemble:
While it may be a full-length performance, this production of The Nutcracker is a kid-friendly production located nearby with earlier show times for small kids. Lap children under 2 are free, and ticket prices are reasonable for a full-length show (only $25 for adults). This show features both students from the dance academy and professional dancers from Momentum’s Ensemble. There is only 1 performance date, so grab your tickets now before the show sells out.
Performance Date: Dec 4
The Nutcracker presented by Ensemble Ballet Theater:
After two years away, Ensemble Ballet Theater’s production of The Nutcracker is back. Considered the “best show in town for the lowest price around”, this show brings the classic Nutcracker story to the South Sound for one show only. Tickets are expected to sell out, so buy your tickets soon.
Performance Date: Dec 5
If you’re looking for a fresh take on the old story, check out Spectrum Dance’s take on The Harlem Nutcracker. The original story centers around an African-American family in Harlem on Christmas Eve, and the production highlights the unique warmth and centrality of the grandmother in African-American culture, the resilience of Black American families and Harlem as a center of the African Diaspora. With Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s “Nutcracker Suite” as a musical starting point, this show modernizes The Nutcracker story for a new audience.
Performance Dates: Dec 9-12
The Nutcracker presented by Olympic Ballet Theatre:
If you’re looking for a less spendy night at the theater, consider Olympic Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker, available in Everett and Edmonds. Featuring students and professional dancers from Olympic Ballet Theatre, this performance features choreography by OBT’s artistic directors Oleg Gorboulev and Mara Vinson.
Performance Dates: Dec 10-12 (Everett), Dec 17-21 (Edmonds)
The Nutcracker presented by Evergreen City Ballet:
Evergreen City Ballet is bringing their Nutcracker performances to Auburn and Renton this year with two special performances especially for little ones. The one hour family-friendly performance is geared towards younger children who might have a hard time sitting still through a full length performance. The shows include special guest appearances from local figures like Miss Washington and Mayor Nancy Backus. Discounted tickets are available for military, seniors, and children under 12.
Performance Dates: Dec 10-12 (Auburn), Dec 17-19 (Renton)
If your kids are looking to be entertained and wowed, then DASSdance’s unique take on The Nutcracker is the show for them. This production has a more contemporary style, fusing jazz, ballet, modern, tap, acrobatics, and aerial work. Based in the Central District of Seattle, this fun, local production is something special to look forward to.
Performance Date: Dec 12
Not ready to venture out yet? We’ve still got options for you! There are multiple streaming or video options for you to enjoy in the safety (and coziness) of your home. This is a perfect option for those with kids interested in the story or show, but who are not quite ready for a trip to the theater. Grab a blanket and some popcorn and enjoy the magic of The Nutcracker from your couch.
The Nutcracker (1993) Film
When you think of The Nutcracker on film, this is the one that comes to mind. Based on the Peter Martins stage production and George Balanchine’s choreography, this film stars a young Macaulay Culkin as The Nutcracker/Prince beside members of the New York City Ballet. This film is closest to the Pacific Northwest Ballet’s production, so I recommend watching this film as a precursor to the big show. This film is available through multiple sites including: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Vudu, Apple TV, and Tubi (for free).
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
The Moscow Ballet, one of the largest touring companies in the world, isn’t set to return to touring until 2022. In the meantime, they are offering their Nutcracker Video on Demand this year with access from December 1 through January 3. Multiple add-ons are available like Nutcracker tree ornaments, wooden Nutcracker figure, and a meet and greet with a Moscow Ballet dancer via Zoom. The Video on Demand extras also include older backstage material and newer material specifically for 2021. This is the most affordable paid option we've seen, so take advantage and purchase today! Ready to purchase? Use the CertifiKID link below to save up to 25% off on digital access plus add-ons!
Get all of the fun of PNB’s Nutcracker masterpiece at home! Viewing access to this streaming presentation is December 20-28, perfect for getting your family into the Christmas spirit. At $49, this is a bargain for families watching together at home. Are your kids looking for more ballet after The Nutcracker? PNB is offering a Digital Subscription for the season’s remaining productions of Roméo et Juliette, Plot Points, Swan Lake, and All Tharp.
Another unique take on the classic story, this production features set pieces and visuals that transport you to New York City. This performance was recorded live at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. If you missed The Hip Hop Nutcracker during their run in Seattle, here’s your chance to catch all the fun. Individual tickets start at $4.50, and educators can also purchase access for classrooms or schools. This virtual option is available November 29-December 17.
In addition to their in-person performances this year, Evergreen City Ballet is offering a virtual option for those who can’t attend, or would rather watch from the comfort of their home. Pricing options aren’t available yet, but will go on sale soon.
If Everett or Edmonds are too far for you to travel, you can still enjoy the Olympic Ballet Theatre’s Nutcracker performance from your couch. For just $25, you can enjoy a recording from the December 14, 2019 performance at the Everett Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available through December 31 and comes with unlimited digital access for seven days.
Has your family been to a Nutcracker performance this year?
Share your best photos with the Macaroni KID West Seattle Facebook page.
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