Boston Ballet Opens World Premiere of Nissinen's THE NUTCRACKER, 11/23

Boston Ballet debuts an entirely reimagined production of THE NUTCRACKER complete with all-new sets and costumes, as well as new choreography and characters! This holiday classic is presented by State Street Corporation and will run from November 23 – December 30 at The Boston Opera House. Voted 'The Best-Loved Nutcracker in the U.S.', Mikko Nissinen's new production of The Nutcracker carries on the beloved tradition. "This was a wonderful opportunity for the company and I to create a completely new visualization of this production," said Nissinen. "For audiences it's a fabulous opportunity to fall in love with this holiday tradition all over again".

Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen commissioned award-winning Robert Perdziola to design the immaculate new sets and costumes. Perdziola illustrated over 40 sketches that have been brought to life over the past year. The world premiere of The Nutcracker marks the first time Boston Ballet has built an entirely new production from the ground up, engaging crafts men and women from all over the United States.

The previous production, which the Company featured for 17 years, was set in 1835 during the Biedermeier period. Nissinen and Perdziola took the new production back 20 years, to what many know as the Jane Austen era. "What we've done is create a Wizard of Oz effect for Clara," said Robert Perdziola. "The Act I party scene features calm, subtle colors that celebrate the understated elegance of the Regency style. When we enter Clara's dream in Act II, we are met with a burst of vibrant color in the sets and costumes." The new sets have been custom painted to match each of Perdziola's exquisite scene drawings. Benjamin Phillips, Production Manager and Technical Director, managed the creation of scenery while Charles Heightchew, Manager of Costumes and Wardrobe, has overseen the production of over 350 detailed costumes. Lighting Designer, Les Dickert was brought on board to create the magical lighting in the new production.

"This reinvented production will remain the holiday classic that audiences know and love, but the experience will be enhanced exponentially," said Nissinen. "While Robert has designed a visually stunning production, we have also fine-tuned the choreography and story." Included in this fine-tuning is a completely new battle scene during Act I, where the audience meets a new character – the Bunny. Fighting valiantly along-side the Nutcracker and his soldiers, the Bunny is a fresh face that is sure to win hearts, along with favorites such as Boston Ballet's lovable Bear and Gingerbread. Over the span of 43 performances the production will feature 65 Company and Boston Ballet II dancers, along with 275 Boston Ballet School students.

State Street Corporation is presenting sponsor of this year's reimagined production. In addition to The Nutcracker, State Street also acts as presenting sponsor for Boston Ballet's annual Nutcracker Magic evening on December 6th. The event supports the "Share the Magic" program which has touched the lives of over 10,000 children and their families by providing access to Boston Ballet productions.

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