Celebrate the magic of the holidays with My First Nutcracker, a playful and accessible introduction to the classic story for children ages 3–8. Follow Clara Marie as she journeys into the Land of the Sweets, meeting delightful characters along the way. With Tchaikovsky’s music and beautiful ballet-based interactivity, this joyful production invites young children to experience the wonder of live theater in a welcoming, family‑friendly setting.
Audiences are invited to be guests at Clara-Marie’s holiday party! As in the classic tale, Clara Marie receives a Nutcracker from her beloved godfather. When the Nutcracker transforms into a Prince, audiences join them as they travel to the Land of the Sweets. Under sparkling skies, complete with dancing flowers, and a pesky mouse king, this interactive telling of the holiday classic is specially reimagined for young theatergoers!
Blending breathtaking visuals, dynamic movement, spoken storytelling, and immersive theatrical magic, the production whisks young audiences and their families into a world where their participation enlivens the performance. Timeless themes of imagination, curiosity, courage and joy unfold.
What Grownups Need to Know Before Purchasing Tickets
- My First Nutcracker is a 50-minute dance-theater piece best for ages 3-8.
- Audience members will be invited to dance with the performers during the show.
- Tickets are required for all guests. Guests under the age of 2 may purchase a lap seat for $5 (cash only) from the box office on the performance day.
- My First Nutcracker is performed in Theatre 3 at Theatre Row. Theatre 3 is on the upper level of the Theatre Row complex and is accessible by stairs and an elevator. Stroller parking is available.
- NYCCT is proud to offer sensory friendly performances of My First Nutcracker.
- Sensory friendly performances are designed to create a welcoming environment for all families with children on the autism spectrum and related conditions. Some changes to the performance include the house lights staying on at a low level, lowering the sound levels, and acknowledging that audience members might verbalize throughout the performance.