Everything you need to know about Nutcracker: Backstage with English National Ballet
The Nutcracker ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky was first performed in December 1892, and to this day remains one of the most beloved traditions around the world.
A light-hearted version of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the story follows a young German girl named Clara, whose nutcracker comes to life on Christmas Eve in the 1820s.
Soon, the pair head off on an adventure as they wage battle on the evil Mouse King.
This Christmas, it is up to the English National Opera to perform the ballet to end all ballets to a sell-out crowd – and they’re pulling out all the stops to make it happen.
And Sky is there the entire way to document their journey to opening night.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new documentary…
What is Nutcracker: Backstage with English National Ballet about?
The official synopsis reads: “Having performed a version of the festive ballet, Nutcracker, every year since it was founded, this year sees the English National Ballet take a fresh approach, and the pressure is on to wow audiences more than ever before.
“This new series, Nutcracker: Backstage with English National Ballet showcases what it takes to re-invent a globally renowned classic, seen through the eyes of all the key departments involved.
“Two documentaries follow the meticulous preparations and the all-important rehearsals which build to the opening night, followed by the full performance of Nutcracker, captured in all its magic at the London Coliseum.”
What is the story of The Nutcracker?
The Nutcracker opens at a party thrown by Clara’s parents, who have invited some of their friends from Clara’s ballet school to dance for the guests.
A magician, named Drosselmeyer, is also at the party to provide entertainment, and brings gifts for the young children. Clara receives a Nutcracker doll, but her brother Fritz breaks it. Magically, it mends itself, causing her to believe the doll is magical.
That evening, once the party is over, Clara can’t sleep so creeps downstairs to play with the Nutcracker, but as the clock strikes midnight, she is attacked by rats led by their King. She is saved by the Nutcracker, who is now magically alive, and his toy soldier friends.
As the battle continues, Clara joins in the fight, and once it’s over, the Nutcracker is transformed into a handsome prince, who leads her to the Land of Snow.
Once there, they team up with Drosselmeyer, who shows her the magic of several different lands, but the Rat King quickly catches up with them. Together, they banish him, and Clara is rewarded for her bravery with a banquet in her honour.
While there, she is transformed into a ballerina called the Sugar Plum Fairy, and performs for the attendees before dancing with the Nutcracker.
As the scene comes to an end, Clara is awoken, having fallen asleep underneath the Christmas tree.
Where and when can I watch Nutcracker: Backstage with English National Ballet?
Nutcracker: Backstage with English National Ballet premiered on Sky Arts on 9 December.
It will also be available to stream on NOW.