South Carolina Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director William Starrett, is a treasured holiday tradition that brings elegance, charm, and Southern storytelling to the classic ballet. With sweeping choreography, dazzling costumes, and newly crafted backdrops inspired by the romantic South, this staging captures the heart of the season with an unforgettable blend of spectacle and sentiment. Audiences are transported from candlelit parlors to snow covered forests and the Land of the Sweets in a production that is as visually sumptuous as it is emotionally resonant.

While staying true to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and the beloved narrative of Clara’s magical journey, this version introduces a tender subplot between Clara’s sister Louisa and the Lead Cadet, adding depth and a romantic spark. With each performance, The Nutcracker becomes more than a ballet—it’s a celebration of tradition, artistry, and holiday magic, making it the definitive seasonal experience for families, couples, and ballet lovers across South Carolina.

Showings