The Nutcracker
#Your holiday favourite returns for one final season.
Celebrate our final season of Ben Stevenson’s The Nutcracker with us!
Perfect entertainment for the whole family, our festive favourite returns for one last year to enchant Queensland audiences with its sparkling winter wonderland. Choreographed by Ben Stevenson OBE and featuring the original Tchaikovsky score played live by Queensland Symphony Orchestra, this cherished Queensland Ballet tradition is in its thirteenth and final season.
It’s Christmas Eve and under tinsel and twinkling fairy lights, young Clara and Fritz are gifted new toys. But a visit from the mysterious Dr Drosselmeyer puts plans in a spin. When the clock strikes 12, nothing is as it seems! Clara and the Nutcracker Prince journey across a Lemonade Sea to the Kingdom of Sweets for a midnight rendezvous featuring all the character favourites, including the Sugar Plum Fairy, Mother Ginger and more.
This hugely popular ballet has been captivating audiences across the globe for more than 120 years. Queensland Ballet’s production was created by Ben Stevenson OBE in 1976 and premiered for Brisbane audiences in 2013. Don’t miss our most cherished annual tradition with the whole family one last time.
Presenting Partner - Sealy of Australia
Please note: This performance uses strobe lighting and theatrical haze and smoke effects. The performance on 7 December 2025 is performed to recorded music. Recording by Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Voices of Birralee, conducted by Nigel Gaynor. Age recommendation: All ages.
“…a Christmas tradition that will open your mind – and your heart”
“It is a wonderful introduction to the art form for both young and old… A joyous Christmas season for all!”
“The wintry wonderland of Queensland ballet's The Nutcracker is a perfect antidote to Brisbane’s already sweltering summer.”
Venue
Lyric Theatre
QPAC
Cnr Grey & Melbourne Streets
South
Brisbane
QLD 4101
Credits
Ben Stevenson OBE
Choreographer
Nigel Gaynor
Music Arranger and Conductor
Desmond Heeley
Costume Designer
Noelene Hill
Associate Costume Designer
Thomas Boyd
Set Designer
David Walters
Lighting Designer
Queensland Symphony Orchestra
Live Music Partner
#Performance Casting and Program
The Nutcracker Program
You can view the Program for the performance here.
The Nutcracker Cast List
You can view the Cast List for each performance here.
Celebrating 13 years of Ben Stevenson's The Nutcracker
Ben Stevenson OBE’s The Nutcracker was first performed as part of Li’s inaugural Season in 2013 and has been a mainstay for 13 years.
"I’ve loved The Nutcracker since I danced in Houston Ballet’s 1979 production. The ballet is a magical fantasy which brings families together for a special time of shared enjoyment. The Nutcracker is our Christmas gift to Queenslanders, and I am excited that this season has become an annual festive tradition in Brisbane."
Li Cunxin AO - Former Artistic Director
#Meet the Characters
Clara
The eldest child of Mr and Mrs Stahlbaum, and the protagonist of our story.
The Nutcracker
Clara’s doll who comes to life to help her defeat the Rat King, turning into the Nutcracker Prince.
The Rat King
The villain who seeks to take over the magical kingdom.
Sugar Plum Fairy
Ruler of the Kingdom of Sweets who guides Clara through her fantastical journey.
Dr Drosselmeyer
Clara and Fritz’ uncle – known for his magical tricks and wind-up dolls.
Fritz
Clara’s mischievous younger brother.
Image gallery: Queensland Ballet performing The Nutcracker. Photography by David Kelly.
#Backstage
Productions