Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet is something essential in the pre-Christmas season. The world’s all big ballet groups play this beautiful tale in the season, and if you’re in Budapest, you can choose from several variations. We collected the 3 best versions:

The one at Hungarian State Opera: As the Opera House is closed for restoration in this season; all of their performances take place in Erkel Theatre. Fortunately, it does not mean worth quality at all. This mesmerizing ballet has been renewed in 2015, when became a newly buffed-up show that follows classical ballet traditions while still conforming to the requirements of 21st century dance and set design. Tamás Solymosi and the internationally renowned Nutcracker specialist Wayne Eagling choreographed a new fairy-tale ballet for the classical music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-2NZIBoX2A

The one at Papp László Sportarena: Tchaikovsky's great ballet is accompanied by circus art and huge screens. With the great inspiration of Nutcracker in Vienna Opera, Arena made an extended Nutcracker show with artists and revue-inspired elements, and the biggest Nutcracker performance is made with a huge "widescreen" decoration. The performance is a family program with modern, contemporary figures for children. Dancing robots, Barbie and Spider-Man… It may sound weird at first, but we dare to declare: there is nothing to be afraid of. And really don’t worry: world stars of Bolshoi Ballet will also come on stage!

Nutcracker, the musical. This version will also take place in Papp László Sportarena, but it’s a whole different version, with a bit different story. In the spectacular production, the Mouse King's charming evil figure is fighting for the love of people, and he thinks if he's overcoming the dolls, kids will play with them and they will love them… Clara and the Nutcracker also have their roles, just wait for it. The performance is unique because of one more reason: the artists cooperate with the Baptist Charity Service, who collects donations and gifts for the children in need.