The Nutcracker presented by The Joffrey Ballet at Lyric Opera

Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended

"...For many families, a trip to “The Nutcracker” is a nonnegotiable holiday tradition — as time-tested and treasured as “A Christmas Carol.” Much like the Dickensian play is to theater, “Nutcracker” is the lifeblood of American ballet companies. It’s a pact made annually between artists and audiences that, for many companies, sells the tickets that keep the lights on."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...If you have seen “The Nutcracker” before, done by other ballet companies, you are in for a treat with this one. British choreographer Christopher Wheeldon has virtually re-invented this work. His version of “The Nutcracker” is site-specific to the city of Chicago. Originally presented by the Joffrey Ballet in December of 2016, Wheeldon has set his production firmly in the city’s historical past."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...The Nutcracker is as special as the holiday itself. It’s a gorgeous, glittery Christmas tradition that should be experienced at least once in everyone’s lifetime. And, without being hyperbolic, the Joffrey’s current production is simply stellar. The popular ballet, which reimagines the familiar Hoffmann story, features a talented, international corps of ballet stars, choreographed by a gifted Broadway luminary and supported by an army of outstanding musicians and theater artists. This is most definitely a must-see Christmas miracle."

Buzznews.net - Highly Recommended

"...What would the holidays be without “The Nutcracker”? No matter where you are in the world, chances are you don’t have to go far to catch a production of the yearly tradition. Joffrey Ballet pays homage to Chicago with their unique version staged by Christopher Wheeldon. This striking version remains just as thrilling year after year and works especially well on the stage at the Lyric Opera house accompanied by the Lyric Opera orchestra."

Third Coast Review - Highly Recommended

"...I personally have seen my fair share of Nutcracker performances.This is only one person's opinion, but I can say with certainty that it has been a long time since I was quite this awestruck by the holiday classic."

Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended

"...Although I saw the new production last winter, it was delightful to see it again. The new theme of having the Nutcracker take place in Chicago during the 1893 World’s Fair was creatively original, providing the classic ballet story with a refreshing new perspective. Being a native Chicagoan myself, it was very enjoyable to have the ballet pay homage to my home city. With the Joffrey Ballet performing The Nutcracker at the Lyric Opera, it just does not get better than that!"