American Repertory Ballet will bring the magic of the holidays back to the stage this winter with its annual production of The Nutcracker, featuring professional dancers and more than 100 students from Princeton Ballet School.
The long-running holiday tradition returns from Nov. 28 through Dec. 21, 2025, with performances in Princeton, Red Bank, and New Brunswick.
The show has delighted generations of audiences for more than 60 years, combining Tchaikovsky’s iconic score with dazzling choreography, colorful costumes, and a story that continues to enchant children and adults alike.
“Nothing compares to this production’s festive spirit, inspiring familiarity, warmth, beauty, and cheer,” said Julie Diana Hench, executive director. “For over 60 years, generations of families have come to see our production and kick off the holiday season—creating wonderful memories together.”
The ballet follows young Clara, who receives a mysterious gift on Christmas Eve and is swept into a magical world of snow, sweets, and adventure.
Her Nutcracker Prince leads her through an epic battle against mischievous mice, a shimmering snow forest, and a visit to the Land of Sweets where the Sugar Plum Fairy reigns.
Company dancer and assistant rehearsal director Nanako Yamamoto said the annual performance is as special for the performers as it is for the audience.
“Being part of The Nutcracker each year is truly magical—not just as a dancer, but also in assisting with rehearsals and watching the production come to life,” Yamamoto said.
“Watching the younger dancers grow each season—gaining confidence, finding joy in the process, and becoming part of something bigger than themselves—is incredibly special,” Yamamoto said.
This year’s production introduces new children’s roles, including “Lambs” in the Marzipan dance, and features first-time performers from several counties in New Jersey as well as New York and Pennsylvania.
Audiences can also enjoy a new Cookies & Cocoa pre-show event in Princeton and Red Bank, where children can meet Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Mouse King while enjoying treats and activities.
Participants will be entered to win a backstage tour announced by the Sugar Plum Fairy after the show.
Performances will be held at the McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton Nov. 28–30; at the Two River Theater in Red Bank Dec. 6–7; and at the State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick Dec. 18–21, featuring live music by the Nutcracker Orchestra conducted by Kenneth T. Bean and singers from the Princeton GirlChoir.
American Repertory Ballet will also host an immersive Nutcracker-themed holiday party on Dec. 13 at The Peacock Inn in Princeton.
The event includes food, music, photo opportunities, and children’s activities, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit company’s dance and education programs.
Princeton event info: McCarter Theatre Center, Friday, Nov. 28, 2 & 7 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 29, 1* & 6 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 30, 1 p.m. Tickets range from $49 to $79. *Cookies & Cocoa Package available for $30 add on to the Saturday, 1 p.m. performance.
For tickets and information, visit arballet.org or call 609-921-7758.
