The Nutcracker - International Ballet Festival & Festival Orchestra

Since its premiere in 1892, this work based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” has delighted young and old alike with its fairy-tale plot and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music.

The story takes us into a magical world between dream and reality: On Christmas Eve, Marie receives a nutcracker as a gift from her godfather, Drosselmayer. That night, a fantastic journey unfolds—from the battle against the Mouse King to the realm of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Spanish, Arabian, Chinese, and Russian dances, the famous

Flower Waltz finale, and numerous other highlights make this work a festive ballet evening full of atmosphere.

Set to the classic choreography by Lev Ivanov and Marius Petipa, a winter fairy tale unfolds that has been among the world’s most beloved ballet works for generations.

International Festival Ballet

The International Festival Ballet embodies a clear, classical ballet tradition at a high technical level. The dancers were trained at renowned European institutions, including the time-honored academies in Perm and St. Petersburg.

Engagements at major theaters in Eastern Europe as well as successes in international competitions define the artistic quality of the ensemble. With guest performances in numerous countries, the company has established itself as a fixture on the international touring scene, combining classical rigor with a modern stage presence.

Festival Orchestra

Artistic Director & Conductor: Normunds Vaicis

The Festival Orchestra accompanies the performances live. Under the baton of Normunds Vaicis, Tchaikovsky’s music unfolds its full sonic power—a central element of these productions. The orchestra is composed of musicians from various European countries and specializes in classical ballet works.