The Nutcracker
Philadelphia Ballet

What Is George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker?

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is the most widely performed version of the holiday ballet in America. Created in 1955 by Balanchine—known as the “Father of American Ballet”—this staging closely follows the original Petipa libretto while infusing it with the theatrical flair and technical brilliance that defined Balanchine’s revolutionary approach to dance. The production opens on Christmas Eve in the Stahlbaum home, where young Marie receives a nutcracker doll from the mysterious magician Drosselmeier. As night falls, Marie’s living room transforms into a battlefield where toy soldiers clash with the Mouse King’s army. After Marie helps defeat the Mouse King, the Nutcracker is revealed as a handsome Prince who whisks her away through a sparkling snowstorm to the Land of the Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy hosts a dazzling celebration of dance.

The Philadelphia Ballet: A Legacy of Excellence

The Philadelphia Ballet was founded in 1963 as the Pennsylvania Ballet by Barbara Weisberger, one of George Balanchine’s most devoted students. Balanchine personally entrusted her with licenses to perform his works, establishing a direct artistic lineage from the choreographer to the company that endures today. Now in its seventh decade, the company has evolved into one of America’s premier ballet organizations, performing a diverse repertoire that ranges from Balanchine classics to bold contemporary works by its Resident Choreographer, Juliano Nunes.

The Nutcracker holds a special place in the company’s identity. Each year, the production unites professional dancers with students from the School of Philadelphia Ballet—the highest-caliber dance education program in the Greater Philadelphia area—in a cast of more than 100 performers. From the children dancing in the party scene to the company’s principal dancers in the grand pas de deux, every role reflects the training and artistry that have made Philadelphia Ballet a cultural treasure. Follow the company on Instagram and Facebook for casting announcements and behind-the-scenes content.

Tchaikovsky’s Enchanting Score

Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky composed the score for The Nutcracker in 1892, creating one of the most beloved and recognizable pieces of music in the classical repertoire. From the elegant “March” and the shimmering “Waltz of the Snowflakes” to the iconic “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and the sweeping “Waltz of the Flowers,” every movement has become a soundtrack of the holiday season. The Philadelphia Ballet’s production features live orchestral accompaniment that fills the Academy of Music with the warmth and grandeur that only Tchaikovsky’s music can deliver.

Inside the Academy of Music

The Academy of Music was designed by architects Napoleon LeBrun and Gustavus Runge and modeled after Milan’s famed La Scala. Its relatively understated brick-and-brownstone exterior belies the opulence within: a richly decorated neo-Baroque auditorium with a famed 5,000-pound chandelier, ornate ceiling frescoes, and four tiers of seating arranged in a classic horseshoe that puts every audience member close to the action. The Academy served as the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1900 to 2001 and remains the home of the Philadelphia Ballet and Opera Philadelphia. It is part of the Kimmel Cultural Campus on Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts.

Seating includes the Parquet (orchestra-level floor seats closest to the stage), Parquet Circle (surrounding floor-level boxes), Balcony, Family Circle, and Amphitheater. Total capacity is approximately 2,509 when orchestra pit seats are included. The Academy is ADA-accessible with wheelchair seating on the Orchestra level and an accessible restroom on the main floor.

Getting to the Academy of Music

The Academy of Music is located at 240 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, on the Avenue of the Arts in Center City. It is easily accessible by SEPTA’s Broad Street Line (exit at Walnut-Locust Station) and by bus routes along Broad Street. Multiple parking garages are available within a few blocks, and rideshare drop-off areas are nearby. The venue is surrounded by Center City’s dining and entertainment district, with restaurants ranging from quick pre-show bites to fine dining within walking distance.

How to Buy Nutcracker Philadelphia Tickets on BigStub

1. Browse the show calendar above. With 35 performances from December 4 through 31, choose the date and showtime that works best for your family. Matinee and evening options are available throughout the run.
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4. Receive your tickets electronically. Tickets arrive via email, transfer, or mobile delivery, ready for a magical night at the Academy of Music.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Nutcracker in Philadelphia

When does The Nutcracker run in Philadelphia in 2026?

Philadelphia Ballet presents George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music from December 4 through December 31, 2026, with 35 performances including matinees and evening shows throughout the run.

Who performs The Nutcracker in Philadelphia?

The production is performed by the Philadelphia Ballet, one of America’s premier ballet companies, under the artistic direction of Angel Corella. The cast features the company’s professional dancers alongside students from the School of Philadelphia Ballet in a production of more than 100 performers.

What version of The Nutcracker is this?

This is George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, the most widely performed version in America. Created by the “Father of American Ballet” in 1955, this staging follows the original Petipa libretto and features Balanchine’s signature choreography with Tchaikovsky’s beloved score performed live.

Where is the Academy of Music located?

The Academy of Music is located at 240 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, on the Avenue of the Arts in Center City. It is accessible via SEPTA’s Broad Street Line (Walnut-Locust Station) and surrounded by Center City’s dining and entertainment district.

How long is The Nutcracker performance?

The runtime is approximately 116 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. The ballet is performed in two acts: Act I features the Christmas Eve party and the battle scene, and Act II takes place in the Land of the Sweets.

Is The Nutcracker appropriate for children?

Absolutely. The Nutcracker is one of the most family-friendly ballets in the repertoire, suitable for children of all ages. The colorful costumes, enchanting music, and magical story captivate young audiences, making it an ideal introduction to ballet and a beloved holiday tradition for families.

How many seats does the Academy of Music have?

The Academy of Music seats approximately 2,509 across four tiers: Parquet (floor level), Parquet Circle, Balcony, Family Circle, and Amphitheater. The intimate horseshoe configuration ensures excellent sightlines from most seats in the house.

Is the Academy of Music accessible?

Yes. The Academy of Music offers wheelchair-accessible seating on the Orchestra level, an accessible entrance on the south side of the building, and an accessible restroom on the main floor. Wheelchair-accessible seats can be purchased online or by calling 215-893-1999.

Is BigStub affiliated with the Philadelphia Ballet or Academy of Music?

No. BigStub is an independent resale marketplace not affiliated with the Philadelphia Ballet, the Academy of Music, or Ensemble Arts Philly. BigStub connects fans with verified sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive, all-inclusive prices with full buyer protection.

Are there matinee performances of The Nutcracker?

Yes. The 2026 schedule includes multiple matinee performances with noon, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM start times on various dates, in addition to 7:00 PM evening performances. Check the full performance calendar above for specific dates and times.

What should I wear to The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music?

There is no strict dress code, but many families choose to dress up for the occasion as part of the holiday tradition. You will see everything from elegant evening attire to smart casual outfits. Children often wear their holiday best, adding to the festive atmosphere of the evening.

Is there a Sugar Plum Fairy meet-and-greet or other special experiences?

Philadelphia Ballet occasionally offers special experiences such as pre-show events, alumni reunions, and opportunities to meet cast members. Check the Philadelphia Ballet website and social media channels for announcements about special events and experiences during the 2026 Nutcracker season.

How can I get to the Academy of Music by public transit?

The most convenient option is SEPTA’s Broad Street Line subway, exiting at Walnut-Locust Station, which is steps from the Academy of Music. Multiple SEPTA bus routes also serve Broad Street. For drivers, several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the venue on the Avenue of the Arts.