Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker at Benedum Center Pittsburgh

There's something astonishing about the holidays - picking the perfect tree, the twinkling lights, the exquisite cuisine, the wrapped presents, the nostalgia-inducing songs and the spirit of togetherness. Whether it is summer, autumn, winter or spring, ballet-magic isn't tied to a certain time of year and there is simply no better way to tap into the spirit of the festive season than experiencing the legendary ballet that first charmed the world over a century ago!

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Nut Cracker!

Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky composed the magical two-act ballet 'The Nutcracker' based on Alexandre Dumas' 1844 short story 'The Tale of a Nutcracker' and with masterful choreography by Marius Petipa, it became one of the world's best, most most prized and most admired classical ballets of all time.

Featuring some of the world's most loved tunes in classical libary, 'The Nutcracker' tells the tale of young Clara who receives a rather peculiar wooden Nutcracker doll from her quirky godfather on Christmas Eve. When the clock strikes midnight, the living room transforms into a wonderland where the toys come to life, with whom she embarks on an exciting adventure.

'The Nutcracker' also boasts phenomenal artistry - from epic lifts and stunning leaps to incredible spins and brilliant, graceful dancing, from unexpected choreography and intriguing puppetry to gorgeous hand-crafted costumes and scenery and of course, Tchaikovsky's well known score to underline the stagecraft.

Pittsburgh Ballet theatre this winter

'The Nutcracker' is a festive must-see for young and old and is a staple in all ballet companies' collection. This December, Pittsburgh Ballet theater presents Terrence S. Orr's beloved production of 'The Nutcracker' - a special final year before they unveil an all-new production in 2027! This is for certain the one theatrical experience in 2026 that you need to treat yourself and your family to! You can take our word for it - we've seen 'The Nutcracker' many times and every single time has been a wonderful memory!

Clara, the Nutcracker and their friends - and rat-enemies - are bringing the magic to the much-adored Benedum Center, a historic 2,800-seat theater in Pittsburgh's Cultural District and the best theatrical experience of your life is on the cards for you and yours!: the Benedum Center boasts state-of-the-art sound and lighting, crystal-clear surround sound, a massive capacity, comfortable seating on various levels and modern facilities for your ultimate comfort.

Make your Friday night more popular!

Why not make the evening even more popular? Have a look at our 'Plan Your Trip' section on the website for a curated list of the best places in Pittsburgh for dinner and entertainment!

So go ahead - have yourself a merry little Christmas this winter with 'The Nutcracker'!