The Nutcracker at Liverpool Empire

Andrew Anderson

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The Nutcracker

29 November-3 December 2016

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Image courtesy of English National Ballet
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The Nutcracker has a pretty unique place in the performing arts world – no other discipline relies quite so heavily on one single show to sustain it. In fact, many ballet companies pretty much live of the profits they make from their annual production of The Nutcracker.

Quite why this is I couldn’t say, but what I do know is that English National Ballet stage a strong rendition of this Christmas story (having watched it myself a few seasons ago). Add this to your Christmas tradition and you won’t be disappointed: it really is a special piece, with enchanting dancing and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music.

In case you’ve never seen it (shame on you) the Nutcracker is a magical doll that comes to life on Christmas Eve, much to the amazement of a young girl called Clara. The two set off on an adventure that takes in balloon rides, a meeting with a Mouse King and much more besides.

Where to go near The Nutcracker at Liverpool Empire

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Royal Court Theatre

The Royal Court Theatre stages mostly home-grown comedies, somewhat mannered and self-conscious reflections of an inward-looking city.

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The Liner Hotel

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Henry Bohn Books

Prepare to do some browsing and digging – this second hand bookshop is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered

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Walker Art Gallery

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O2 Academy Liverpool

O2 Academy Liverpool (formerly the L2 and Carling Academy Liverpool) boasts two performance areas that host live music and clubnights.

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