Family favourite The Nutcracker still set for Highland capital
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Family favourite The Nutcracker is heading to Inverness' Eden Court Theatre soon as part of what was supposed to be Scottish Ballet’s biggest tour yet.
Covid has unfortunately led to the cancellation of some dates but the Highland capital date remains unaffected.
The performances of the timeless classic at Eden Court Theatre are from January 26 to 29.
The beautiful Tchaikovsky score will be performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, rejoining the company on tour for the first time in nearly two years.
A Scottish Ballet spokeswoman said: "Unfortunately, in line with Scottish Government restrictions we have had to cancel some of The Nutcracker tour dates.
"This includes all of the performances scheduled for Theatre Royal in Glasgow and His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen..
"We are hopeful that Inverness, Newcastle and Belfast will go ahead as planned, if the situation allows.
"We are very sorry for any disappointment caused and encourage audiences to transfer their tickets to a future Scottish Ballet tour.
"This is a difficult time for our theatres – please be kind to the box office staff who are working so hard to manage all these changes."
The Nutcracker takes audiences on a journey through the worlds of a child’s imagination.
It follows wee Clara as she drifts off to sleep on Christmas Eve and meets the dashing Nutcracker Prince; fights off the larger-than-life Rat King and is welcomed into the Land of Sweets by the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy.
Originally choreographed by Scottish Ballet founder Peter Darrell in 1972, Scottish Ballet’s The Nutcracker was re-imagined in 2014 by artistic director Christopher Hampson, working with multi-award-winning designer Lez Brotherson.
It includes unforgettable scenes including on-stage snow, a whirling Victorian Christmas party, and a mesmerizing duet in front of a wall of 4,500
gleaming baubles.
Mr Hampson, also Scottish Ballet CEO, said: "We are delighted to be able to share this magical production again and create new memories for our audiences.
"This tour will be particularly special as we are re-joined by our wonderful Scottish Ballet Orchestra at long last.
"I am grateful for the support of the Peter Darrell Trust in ensuring that we keep this production alive and relevant for all our audiences, now and in the future.”
Chloe Macduff, aged 12, who is one of five young dancers playing Clara, said: “I went to see The Nutcracker when I was seven with my granny and my wee sister for granny’s birthday.
"I really loved it and dreamed that I would dance on the stage one day. The Nutcracker is so colourful and full of joy, especially the party scene, because I love the costumes and seeing everyone dance together."
• Tickets for The Nutcracker at Eden Court can be bought here
