Check out these brand new production photos of The Nutcracker, the exciting family musical enchanting audiences this December.
Bursting with festive magic, original music, and a thrilling new take on the much-loved classic, this year’s Christmas production invites you to step into a world where courage, imagination, and friendship shine brighter than ever.
When Clara Ashworth’s cherished Nutcracker doll springs to life one Christmas Eve, she is swept into a fantastical world under threat from the sinister Rat Queen, whose dark power threatens to drain the magic from the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. To save her new friends, she must unlock the strength and bravery she never knew she had.
Unlike traditional ballets, this version is a fully staged musical featuring actor-musicians and a live on-stage band. You can expect a rich mix of music inspired by everything from traditional English folk melodies to Tchaikovsky’s classic score and subtle nods to Disney.
With bold new characters, steampunk and retro-circus fantasy worlds, and empowering female leads, this vibrant retelling places Clara’s journey at the heart of the story. The production is written and directed by Sasha Wilson (Bury the Hatchet, The Brief Life and Mysterious Death of Boris III, King of Bulgaria), with original music by Callum Patrick Hughes, design by Tomasin Cuthbert, lighting by Charly Dunford, and Youth Ensemble direction by Sarah Shorten.
The cast features Nell Baker as Clara, Taunton-born Tomas Baines as Frank / The Nutcracker, Elizabeth Marsh as Lady Euwella / The Rat Queen, Rhiannon Neads as Aunt Rowena / The Sugar Plum Fairy, and Dan Wheeler as Lord Henry / Thistlebane.
They are joined by a 10-strong local Youth Ensemble, proudly supported by Taunton School as principal sponsor.
Executive Director, Vickie Robbins, says: “We’re delighted to bring this special adaptation of The Nutcracker to Taunton. The show has been written especially for us, and we just know you are going to love it. Returning to the original tale, this adaptation is a heartwarming story of bravery and friendship, perfect for families to enjoy over the Christmas period.”
The Nutcracker runs until Sunday 28 December. Don’t miss out!
Photography by Jack Offord
