The Nutcracker brings joy and snow to Cambridge

This spectacular new version of The Nutcracker, brought to the Corn Exchange by the Saint Petersburg Classical Ballet, provided the perfect festive family treat.

The timeless story of Clara, who is whisked away on a fairytale adventure by her Nutcracker Prince, is set to Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score.

Under the direction of Marina Medvetskaya, this acclaimed company returned to Cambridge at the end of December after delighting audiences on its last tour.

Combining classical training and technique with the best-loved Russian ballets, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet’s performances have an air of magic, complemented by a full orchestra and outstanding soloists.

This was emphatically demonstrated by an amazing cast and orchestra, who put on one of the best versions of this particular ballet that I’ve ever seen.

Indeed, as someone who has had extensive ballet training, I was dancing along in my shoes to the wonderful performances – especially that of Natalya Romanova, who played Clara, and that of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The ‘snow’ that descended on the audience at the end of the first half was a lovely – and unexpected – touch and I eagerly awaited the second half, known for its numerous and instantly familiar dance numbers.

Act Two was even better than the first and not even a young man falling out of his pirouette – a devastating thing to happen to a dancer – could dampen in any way this superb audio and visual display.

batalov-ballet.ru