The Nutcracker Origins

Grand Piano Series
Narrative MusicalesThe Nutcracker Origins

Konstantin Soukhovetski, piano

Tchaikovsky — Selections from The Nutcracker

When the original Nutcracker debuted in 1892, it featured children playing lead roles, emphasized spookier elements of the story and was far more gothic than the upbeat Christmas story it became. After its premiere, it was considered a commercial and critical failure, criticized for a weak plot, and poor flow. Audiences found it chaotic and deemed Tchaikovsky’s score underwhelming, but all that changed after legendary choreographer George Balanchine got his hands on it in 1954. In this holiday-centric Narrative Musicales, Konstantin Soukhovetski becomes both performer and storyteller, shedding light on the original tale and bringing wit and insight to Balanchine’s beloved version. Prepare to be surprised, delighted and newly inspired.