Melissa Donovan
Orlando Ballet is once again ushering in the holiday season with its reimagined production of The Nutcracker, presented by Orlando Health, returning to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts from Dec. 5–24. Now in its third season, the production has quickly become a beloved holiday staple for families across Central Florida.
This immersive, family-friendly experience draws audiences into Clara’s enchanting journey, complete with larger-than-life puppetry, animated characters and imaginative staging. Each performance brings together more than 130 dancers, including company performers and young artists from Orlando Ballet School, creating one of the most expansive holiday productions in the region.
The reimagined Nutcracker showcases hallmark elements such as a 20-foot Mother Goose, a soaring flying goose, intricate puppets, detailed animatronics, aerial choreography and sweeping winter wonderland sets. The result is an inventive blend of classical ballet and theatrical spectacle that captivates audiences of all ages.
According to the company, this year’s run marks the production’s third season under the artistic direction and choreography of Jorden Morris. The show, presented in Steinmetz Hall, pairs opulent costumes and precise lighting with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score to create a transportive holiday atmosphere.
“Our creative and production teams are extraordinary. With our Nutcracker production, I wanted to create an experience that is whimsical and visually stunning,” Morris, who debuted his reimagined version in Dec. 2024 said. “Children and adults alike will enjoy how all the creative elements come together to offer an unforgettable experience.”
The company’s ensemble includes 27 professional dancers, 15 Second Company members, 16 trainees and 72 students from Orlando Ballet School. Their technical precision and athleticism—highlighted through grand jetés, pirouettes and acrobatic sequences—are elevated by Morris’ background in major-scale productions and cirque-inspired design.
Audiences can expect the return of fan-favorite animated characters, elaborate puppetry and signature aerial staging that adds new dimension to Clara’s story. At its core, the production celebrates courage, tradition and the childlike wonder associated with the holiday season.
“Every season, we hear from families who tell us this production has become a cherished part of their holiday traditions,” Executive Director Bradley Renner said. “With the support of Orlando Health, we’re proud to bring this experience to even more people across Central Florida.”
In addition to evening and matinee performances, the schedule includes two dedicated family holiday matinees on Dec. 13 and 20. These special shows feature pre-show activities such as crafts, Nutcracker story time, interactive dance experiences, face painting and themed photo opportunities.
Tickets start at $39 plus tax and fees, and performances run approximately 1 hour and 57 minutes.
Performance Schedule
Friday, December 5 — 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 6 — 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 7 — 2 p.m., 7 p.m.
Thursday, December 11 — 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 12 — 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 13 — 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (family-friendly matinee at 2 p.m.)
Sunday, December 14 — 2 p.m., 7 p.m.
Wednesday, December 17 — 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 18 — 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 19 — 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 20 — 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (family-friendly matinee at 2 p.m.)
Sunday, December 21 — 2 p.m., 7 p.m.
Tuesday, December 23 — 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 24 — 1 p.m.
For tickets and details, visit OrlandoBallet.org, call (407) 918-9828 or email boxoffice@orlandoballet.org. Ticket fees apply to online and phone purchases. Groups of 10 or more can access special pricing by contacting the box office.
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