Queensland Ballet rings in the festive season with The Nutcracker

Queensland Ballet (QB) is kicking off the festive season with its annual production of Ben Stevenson’s The Nutcracker, with QB star and Principal dancer Camilo Ramos taking to the stage for the last time.

With lavish Christmas parties, whimsical snowy backdrops and enchanting adventures, QB’s The Nutcracker has delighted audiences for nine years in a row, as families young and old returning each season for the holiday tradition.

Cuban-born Ramos will be retiring from his professional ballet career after The Nutcracker season, performing his last show alongside his wife and fellow Principal dancer Yanela Piñera. After six years with the Company and 14 as Principal dancer, Ramos is taking up an exciting role in 2022 at the QB Academy.

“I’ve performed The Nutcracker with Queensland Ballet for many years and learnt about 10 different roles for the production in that time. It’s such a special production for the dancers, as we know Christmas is just around the corner when we start rehearsals. Each year we all try to add something new to continue bringing the magic to our audiences,” said Mr Ramos.

“Dancing my last show with my wife Yanela will be very special. We have shared so many beautiful and unique moments on stage throughout my entire career. I still remember the first time we danced together 13-years ago, and that performance will be in my heart forever.

“Dancing with Yanela has been the highlight of my career and I can’t imagine performing my last show with anybody else,” he added.

Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO envisioned The Nutcracker to become an annual tradition for Queenslanders to experience the magic of the festive season in ways only ballet can provide.

“This is our ninth year performing The Nutcracker, and year on year we see familiar faces in the crowd, as well as new audiences who are only just discovering the wonders of ballet,” said Mr Li.

“There’s something magical about giving an experience people can share together, and I think that’s what is so special about The Nutcracker. It warms my heart to see the community include us in their own family traditions,” he added.

Audiences will be whisked away at the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve when little Clara finds herself embarking on the magical adventure to faraway places reigned by the Sugar Plum Fairy. Light-hearted, dreamy and brimming with festive magic, The Nutcracker is the perfect way to rediscover the wonders of the season and share with family the traditions of Christmas.

This year Queensland Ballet has put together its ultimate gift guide, with a range of suggestions for the festive season.

“No matter your age or background, the gift of dance can be enjoyed by all!” said Mr Li,

“Memberships are a great way for ballet lovers to get access to our special events, there are season ticket packages and gift vouchers too. So why not consider gifting an experience this year,” he added..

The Nutcracker runs from December 16-23 at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC. Click here to secure your tickets now. Audiences will have the opportunity to see Ramos’ last performances as the Nutcracker Prince on December 16th, 18th and 22^nd. 

Click here to check out the Gift Guide.