The Nutcracker has swept holiday theatergoers off their feet for generations, dating back to its premiere in 1892. Since then, the classic ballet has been produced all over the world, offering thousands of unique interpretations of the holiday tradition. Every Nutcracker has its own flair, and some of these productions might surprise you with your their, well, nutty takes on Tchaikovsky’s classic. Here are just a few delightful productions of The Nutcracker you can catch around the U.S. this year.

New York

Nutcracker Rouge at Company XIV

Nutcracker Rouge

Nutcracker Rouge at Company XIV is a sexy and romantic take on the classical ballet featuring opera, circus, and burlesque. Get Nutcracker Rouge tickets here.

The Hard Nut at BAM

Hard Nut

A cascade of wit and wintry beauty, this lavish, gender-bent love letter to the classic transplants E.T.A. Hoffmann’s original story from the straight-laced 1890s to the swinging 70s, with raucous parties, dancing G.I. Joes, whimsical costumes, and a Waltz of the Snowflakes like no other. Get The Hard Nut tickets here.

Chicago

Christopher Wheeldon’s Nutcracker at Joffrey Ballet

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Discover the magic of Chicago’s mysterious 1893 World’s Fair through the eyes of a child in the Joffrey’s astounding new Nutcracker, brilliantly reimagined by Tony Award-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon. Get Christopher Wheeldon’s Nutcracker tickets here.

The Nutcracker at The House Theatre of Chicago

The House’s fantastical expansion of this holiday classic centers on young Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, this brave girl will risk the darkness, fight the Rat King, and save her family! This modern holiday production weaves together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original song, and spellbinding spectacle. Get The Nutcracker tickets here.

Seattle

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Pacific Northwest Ballet

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Pacific Northwest Ballet’s magical production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker features sets and costumes by children’s author/illustrator Ian Falconer and of course Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed by the PNB Orchestra. Get George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker tickets here.

Boston

The Nutcracker at Boston Ballet

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From the captivating dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the iconic snow scene, this enchanting classical ballet continues to enthrall audiences of all ages! Spend an afternoon at the beautiful Boston Opera House and enjoy one of Boston’s best traditions. Get The Nutcracker tickets here.

The Slutcracker

Slutcracker

The Slutcracker is a glorious parody of Tchaikovsky’s famed 1890s ballet. A courtship and a devious Aunt Drosselmeyer set the stage for Clara’s transformation and awakening in the Kingdom of Sexual Fantasy. Get The Slutcracker tickets here.

D.C.

The Nutcracker at The Washington Ballet

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Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker puts a historic twist on the classic tale. Set in Georgetown, the production features appearances by notable figures like George Washington and King George III. Get The Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker tickets here.

Los Angeles

The Nutcracker at Los Angeles Ballet

Los Angeles Ballet

Los Angeles Ballet’s annual production is a must-see and LA family favorite. Set on Christmas Eve in L.A. in 1912, Clara dreams of faraway lands and snow-covered landscapes. (We hear Santa Claus makes an appearance, too!) Get The Nutcracker tickets here.

The MeshugaNutcracker!

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Blending Tchaikovsky’s score with witty lyrics and traditional Jewish songs, The MeshugaNutcracker! is a non-stop cavalcade of Chanukah fun. Get The MeshugaNutcracker! tickets here.

San Francisco

The Nutcracker at San Francisco Ballet

SF Ballet
San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker is rooted in tradition, as the American premiere of The Nutcracker happened in 1944 at San Francisco’s War Memorial Opera. The ballet has since become a national holiday tradition, though it’s especially exciting to view such a historic production. Get The Nutcracker tickets here.

Philadelphia

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at Pennsylvania Ballet

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It wouldn’t be the holidays in Philadelphia without the timeless family tradition of The Nutcracker. This production features lavish sets, opulent costumes, and enchanting performances. Get George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker tickets here.

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House Theatre of Chicago

Don’t Miss These Productions of The Nutcracker Across the U.S.