American Repertory Ballet’s Beloved ‘The Nutcracker’ is Back
Our take
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a delightful revival of tradition, joy, and artistry. The American Repertory Ballet (ARB) is making a triumphant return with its beloved production of *The Nutcracker*, a performance that has enchanted audiences for over six decades. Running from November 28 to December 21, 2025, this classic ballet promises to deliver the magic of the holidays through its vibrant choreography and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. As we prepare to immerse ourselves in this seasonal spectacle, it’s important to reflect on why events like these resonate so deeply with us as individuals and as a community. The beauty of *The Nutcracker* lies not just in its enchanting narrative but in its role as a bridge connecting generations, fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience among viewers.
In an era where digital distractions often pull us away from the simple pleasures of life, live performances like *The Nutcracker* offer a refreshing antidote. They remind us of the power of storytelling through dance and the emotional connections that can be forged in a theater setting. This year, ARB’s production features not only its professional artists but also over 100 talented students from the Princeton Ballet School, showcasing the nurturing environment that the ballet community fosters. Such collaborations highlight the importance of mentorship and community in the arts, drawing parallels to other recent articles in our publication, such as Actress Katie Holmes to be honored at ABT’s 2026 Spring Gala, which celebrate the achievements of artists while also inspiring the next generation.
Moreover, *The Nutcracker* serves as a reminder of the importance of body positivity and self-acceptance, themes that resonate deeply with my own values as a fitness guru and advocate for feeling sexy and confident in one’s own skin. The dancers, with their diverse bodies and unique expressions of artistry, embody the message that beauty comes in all forms. This is a crucial aspect of the ballet community that often goes unnoticed, yet it plays a significant role in how performers and audiences perceive themselves and each other. As we watch these dancers take the stage, we are invited to embrace our own bodies and celebrate the strength and beauty they possess, akin to the sentiments reflected in our recent article, Book review: Gavin Larsen and Gene Schiavone’s ‘Infinite Steps: Thirty-three Dancers and Their Lives in Ballet’, which explores the personal journeys of dancers beyond the stage.
As we anticipate the return of *The Nutcracker*, let’s consider the broader implications of engaging with such art forms. They are not merely performances; they are celebrations of culture, creativity, and human connection. Each twirl, leap, and gesture encapsulates years of training, passion, and dedication, reminding us that art has the power to uplift our spirits and encourage us to be our best selves. As the curtain rises this holiday season, let us take a moment to reflect on what it means to be part of this communal experience. In a world that often feels fragmented, how can we continue to foster connections through such timeless traditions? With ARB’s *The Nutcracker*, we are not just witnesses to a ballet; we are participants in a legacy of joy, resilience, and beauty that transcends time.
American Repertory Ballet (ARB) invites audiences to celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, a timeless story filled with magic, beauty, and holiday spirit. For more than 60 years, this timeless production has delighted generations, captivating newcomers while remaining a beloved tradition for longtime fans. Join the celebration with performances running from Friday, November 28 through Sunday, December 21, 2025, at venues in Princeton, Red Bank, and New Brunswick.
Featuring exhilarating choreography set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, American Repertory Ballet’s The Nutcracker showcases the company’s professional artists alongside over 100 talented students from Princeton Ballet School, the official school of American Repertory Ballet. Together they tell the beloved story of a young girl named Clara, who receives a mysterious Christmas gift and embarks on a wondrous adventure. Guided by her Nutcracker Prince, Clara faces an epic battle against mischievous mice, glides through a snow-filled forest, and arrives in the radiant Land of Sweets. There, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier welcome her with a series of dazzling dances before she awakens, uncertain whether her magical journey was real or just a dream.
“Nothing compares to this production’s festive spirit, inspiring familiarity, warmth, beauty, and cheer,” says 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.”
This year, American Repertory Ballet has expanded opportunities for its youngest talents from Princeton Ballet School, introducing new children’s roles – including the adorable “Lambs” in Act II’s Marzipan dance. These budding dancers will share the stage with ARB’s professional Company artists, creating heartwarming moments that blend youthful exuberance with world-class technique.
Students in The Nutcracker hail from across the region, including Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Somerset Counties in New Jersey; Richmond County, New York; and Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Among the 107 young performers, 24 will be making their Nutcracker debut, adding fresh excitement to this cherished holiday tradition.
Also new this season are “Cookies & Cocoa” special events where attendees of all ages can join Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Mouse King before the performance and enjoy fresh cookies, hot cocoa, and a dash of sparkling activities before the curtain rises. Attendees will be entered to win an exclusive backstage tour immediately following the performance. Winners will be announced by the Sugar Plum Fairy!
The performance schedule for American Repertory Ballet’s The Nutcracker is as follows:
Experience the magic at McCarter Theatre Center | Princeton, NJ with performances on Friday, November 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 1:00 PM (with a special “Cookies & Cocoa Package” available for a $30 add-on) and 6:00 PM; and Sunday, November 30, 2025 at 1:00 PM. Tickets range from $49 to $79.
Catch the holiday spirit at Two River Theater | Red Bank, NJ on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM (featuring the “Cookies & Cocoa Package” for a $30 add-on) and 6:00 PM, followed by Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM. Tickets are priced between $47 and $79.
Finally, enjoy an enchanting presentation featuring musicians of the Nutcracker Orchestra conducted by Kenneth T. Bean and singers from the Princeton GirlChoir at State Theatre New Jersey | New Brunswick, NJ. Performances run Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 7:30 PM; Friday, December 19, 2025 at 7:30 PM; Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; and Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Tickets range from $52 to $87.
In addition to traditional performances, ARB is also hosting an Immersive Nutcracker Party for the whole family on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM at The Peacock Inn, located at 20 Bayard Lane, Princeton, NJ. This delightful experience for all ages will include hors d’oeuvres and delicacies from the Land of Sweets, jolly holiday beverages, live period music, themed characters, a party scene dance lesson, a children’s story time, photo opportunities with dancers, and much more! Guests are welcome to come in Victorian garb or in an outfit inspired by any of the characters in The Nutcracker. Costumes are optional, but dress should be festive. Individual tickets range from $75 to $200 and Sponsorships range from $1,000 to $5,000. Free valet parking is available. All proceeds from the event will support ARB, a non-profit organization providing excellent dance and dance education for over 70 years.
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