Famed for the breathtaking Hot Air Balloon of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, the American Academy of Ballet are back for 2024 with their glorious production of this Christmas classic. Now in its 28th year, don't miss this Buffalo tradition!

One Of The Best Holiday Shows

The Nutcracker is one of the country's favorite Christmas events, and one of the most performed ballets in the world with productions taking place each Christmas in London, New York City and right here!

The story of The Nutcracker was originally written by E.T.A. Hoffmann, however, the beautiful score which accompanies this world-famous ballet was created by Tchaikovsky and received its debut over 100 years ago in 1892. An evening spent at a performance of this enchanting Holiday classic by your local ballet company is the perfect way to welcome in Christmas with the whole family!

What Is The Nutcracker About?

One snowy Christmas Eve, at a great townhouse where a party is in full swing, local magician Herr Drosselmeyer arrives with gifts for the children, including a wooden nutcracker for Clara, the oldest child. When the clock strikes twelve an adventure begins and the Nutcracker comes to life, leading our heroine Clara into a war between mice and tin soldiers, and into the enchanted Land of Sweets where a festival awaits them.