Media Release:
Queensland Ballet presents The Nutcracker
A magical final season to delight audiences of all ages.
Brisbane, 30 November, 2025: Step into a world of sugar plums, rat kings, and sparkling snowflakes as Queensland Ballet returns with its favourite festive tradition, The Nutcracker. For its thirteenth and final season of Ben Stevenson’s production, this magical classic will enchant audiences of all ages with afternoon and evening performances from 5 -13 December, 2025 at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
Choreographed by former director of Houston Ballet, Ben Stevenson, OBE, and set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s memorable score, all performances, except Sunday 7th December, will be accompanied by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra under the baton of renowned ballet conductor, Nigel Gaynor.
Reflecting on the timeless appeal of the production, Queensland Ballet Artistic Director, Ivan Gil-Ortega said The Nutcracker is a beloved part of the festive season.
“This production of The Nutcracker was first introduced to Queensland Ballet 13 years ago through former Artistic Director, Li Cunxin’s long-standing association with Houston Ballet. We now see generations of families returning each year, that’s the kind of legacy and tradition our production has created,” Gil-Ortega said.
“The Nutcracker is about the wonder of childhood and for many, it is the first professional dance performance they will experience. It is a cherished and enduring festive tradition celebrating family, loyalty, and the transformative power of imagination, making it meaningful for everyone. It is also a wonderful opportunity to see the stars of tomorrow. Many of our Queensland Ballet Academy students take part in the production giving them invaluable opportunities to shine,” Gil-Ortega added.
“But the jewel in the crown of this ballet is the grand pas de deux at the end of Act Two. Danced to some of Tchaikovsky’s most majestic music, the pas de deux is full of thrilling lifts which reflect the grandeur of the score,” Gil-Ortega added.
Reprising her role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, principal dancer, Lucy Green, said that while the role represents joy and the magical world of dreams, it is not without challenges.
"The role really tests your mettle technically. It requires impeccable control, pure classical lines, and unwavering stamina.
“My solo in Act Two is incredibly demanding but must appear light and effortless to the audience. When you get the balance between the technical precision and grace right, it almost feels as if you're floating. It's very satisfying.” Green said.
Based on German author, E. T. A. Hoffmann’s story, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, the 130-year old story begins in the home of the Stahlbauns where they are hosting a Christmas eve party. Their daughter, Clara, is given a magical nutcracker doll from her godfather, Drosselmeyer Later that night, in her dreams, the world around her transforms - furniture grows, toys come to life and the magical nutcracker doll becomes a handsome Prince. Waging a battle against the giant rat king, the Prince whisks Clara away on a wonderous journey through the glittering Land of the Snow and on to the dazzling Kingdom of the Sweets.
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Event details
Dates: 5 – 13 December, 2025, 2 hours including one 20 minute
Venue: Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Cultural Precinct Cnr Grey and Melbourne Street, South Bank, QLD, 4101
Tickets: $65 - $198. Bookings. here
The Nutcracker Children's Workshops, ages 2-5 years and 6-12 years.
Enter a sparkling winter wonderland with Queensland Ballet Teaching Artists for a magical workshop, exploring the characters, storytelling and ballet moves from Ben Stevenson’s, The Nutcracker.
Comfortable clothing and shoes to allow for movement. Bare feet are acceptable. No previous dance experience is required. Dates: 6 – 13 December 2025
Editors Note
Interviews: Claire Vince, PR and Communications Manager
Cvince@queenslandballet.com.au / 0468 726 910.
Photos and release here:
