Join Clara on a magical Christmas Eve, where a grand ball is interrupted by the arrival of her mysterious aunt.
Carrying a curious gift, she brings wonder and excitement to the festivities. But when Clara’s cherished Nutcracker doll springs to life that very night, she finds herself swept into a fantastical battle against the sinister Evil Rat Queen, whose darkness threatens to drain the magic from the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Can Clara unlock the magic needed to save her new friends?
With captivating live music inspired by traditional English folk melodies, and echoes of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, The Nutcracker is a spellbinding adventure celebrating bravery, friendship, and the bonds of family.
The Nutcracker is kindly sponsored by Taunton School.
CAST
Nell Baker – Clara
Tomas Baines – Frank / The Nutcracker
Elizabeth Marsh – Lady Euwella/The Rat Queen
Rhiannon Neads – Aunt Rowena/The Sugar Plum Fairy
Dan Wheeler – Lord Henry / Thistlebane
CREATIVES
Sasha Wilson – Writer & Director
Calum Patrick Hughes – Musical Director
Tomasin Cuthbert – Designer
Charly Dunford – Lighting Designer
Sarah Shorten – Youth Ensemble Director
YOUTH ENSEMBLE
The principal cast will be joined by a 10-strong Youth Ensemble comprising local young actors. The Youth Ensemble is kindly sponsored by Taunton School.
BSL Performances
Saturday 6 December | 3pm
Thursday 18 December | 7pm
A British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter from Complete Communications will be stood at the front stage left for the duration of the show, translating for those who use British Sign Language.
£17.50 tickets and “Best View of the BSL Interpreter” seats are available for those who identify as deaf or hard of hearing. Free Essential Companion tickets are also available.
Audio Described Performances
Friday 5 December | 7pm
Saturday 13 December | 3pm
This performance will feature a live commentary, delivered to participating audience members via an audio description headset. The narrator will introduce the characters and describe the scenery, costumes, and action taking place on stage, including any changes in body language, expressions, or movements. The performance will be preceded by the Introductory Notes.
Additionally, an optional Touch Tour will be available, providing a unique opportunity to explore the set, costumes, and interact with the actors up close in an engaging and meaningful way. To register your interest, please contact the Box Office on 01823 283244.
£17.50 tickets are available for those who identify as blind or visually impaired. Free Essential Companion tickets are also available.
Relaxed Performances
Saturday 27 December | 11am
Our Relaxed Performances are for everyone but have been specifically adapted to be sensitive to audience members who may benefit from seeing a show in a less formal, more supportive atmosphere. This may include (but is not limited to) people who have autism, learning disabilities, auditory sensitivities, epilepsy, or dementia.
During these performances, noise and movement in the theatre are welcomed; the house lights will be set to dim, and loud noises, flashing lights, and pyrotechnics may be left out of the show. Free Essential Companion tickets are available.
School Performances
Monday 1 December | 10.30am
Tuesday 2 December | 10.30am
Friday 5 December | 10.30am
Monday 8 December | 10.30am
Tuesday 9 December | 10.30am
Wednesday 10 December | 10.30am
Thursday 11 December | 10.30am
Monday 15 December | 10.30am
Tuesday 16 December | 10.30am
Wednesday 17 December | 10.30am
For school group bookings, please contact our Box Office on 01823 283244.
To find out more about how to book free essential companion tickets online, please click here.
To download our Visual Story, please click here.
For further information about our access performances, you can email us at [email protected] or call us on 01823 283244.
Family Packs
Save big with The Nutcracker Family Pack! Book before 31 October and enjoy 10% off the following performances:
Friday 5 December | 7pm (Audio Described)
Saturday 6 December | 11am & 3pm (BSL)
Saturday 13 December | 3pm (Audio Described)
Thursday 18 December | 7pm (BSL)
Saturday 27 December | 11am (Relaxed) & 3pm
Sunday 28 December | 11am & 3pm
Family Packs are bookings of 4 tickets with at least 1 child. Simply add the tickets to your basket for the discount to apply.
Souvenir Programme
Treasure your trip to the theatre with our souvenir programme packed full of cast and creative bios, fun games, and enchanting details about the show.
Pre-order yours when purchasing tickets and save £1! Your programme will be ready for collection at the Box Office on the day of your chosen performance.