The Nutcracker presented by The Joffrey Ballet at Auditorium Theatre

Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended

"...The Joffrey's final run of this "Nutcracker" — next season brings Christopher Wheeldon's new take on the classic — concludes Dec. 27 at the Auditorium. It's a production well worth saying goodbye to: It takes meticulous care of every detail from the dancing to the seemingly endless sheets of snow to the brilliant Tchaikovsky music, played with rollicking precision by the Chicago Philharmonic, led by Scott Speck."

Chicago On the Aisle - Highly Recommended

"...Yet this production bows out in splendid shape. The time-tested, family friendly concept still beats with a generous heart. Indeed, this "Nutcracker" tones down both the story's darkness, in the mysterious figure of Drosselmeyer (Lucas Segovia), who gives Clara (Cara Marie Gary) the magical Nutcracker as a Christmas gift, and in the angst between the adolescent girl and her spiteful brother. It is a kinder, gentler "Nutcracker.""

Stage and Cinema - Recommended

"...As farewell perfomances go, this Auditorium Theatre spectacle was respectful enough to the massive memories it redeemed. It’s strange to mourn for a night of classic choreography. But perhaps a year from now Wheeldon’s version will open up new vistas to an old masterpiece. Joffrey’s take on a Christmas fantasy will not be forgotten, let alone replaced, but we will have new marvels to replenish the cash cow. Thanks for the memories."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...This is the end of an era! One that you might want to make sure you have logged in your memory book, for you and your loved ones, so here is the scoop on the FINAL, Farewell performances of this classic. "

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"...The Nutcracker is a Christmas classic for a reason. The ballet has all the right ingredients: emphasis on family, epic triumphs and a plethora of beautiful rewards. Heroic behavior is reinforced and surprises appear around every corner. With a poignant score, magnificent production values and gorgeous dancing, The Nutcracker truly has something for everyone. Every Nutcracker is different, but what's lovely about Robert Joffrey's interpretation is his emphasis on the story's magic, with a sense of wide-eyed wonder. Where else can a toy become a hero and flowers and candies come to life? With vibrant effervescence in every tree, note and step, The Nutcracker brings out the child in all of us."