The Nutcracker Ballet Enchants Rome at Teatro dell'Opera
Rome's prestigious Teatro dell'Opera di Roma opens its Christmas season with Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet masterpiece. From December 17 through 31, 2025, audiences experience the magic of The Nutcracker through the vision of choreographer Paul Chalmer in a production that combines classical elegance with spectacular theatrical artistry.
A Classic Christmas Tale Comes to Life
The ballet unfolds in Nuremberg, Germany during the 1820s, where the Stahlbaum family celebrates Christmas Eve. The mysterious toy maker Drosselmeyer arrives bearing magical gifts that will transform the evening into an unforgettable adventure. His most captivating offering is a wooden nutcracker doll that captures the imagination of young Clara, the family's daughter.
As midnight approaches, Clara's dream transports the parlor into a magical realm where the nutcracker leads toy soldiers in battle against the Mouse King. The nutcracker's victory leads to his transformation into a handsome prince who invites Clara to his enchanted kingdom. The journey culminates in the legendary Land of Sweets, where exotic dancers representing chocolate, coffee, tea, and candy canes perform spectacular variations, concluding with the iconic Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
International Artists Lead the Cast
The production welcomes Chloe Misseldine, principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, in her Teatro dell'Opera debut. Acclaimed dancer Jacopo Tissi joins her as principal male lead. Both artists appear in performances on December 17, 19, and 20. The complete ensemble features the Étoiles, Principal Dancers, Soloists, and Corps de Ballet of Roma's Opera Theatre, supported by talented students from the Theatre's own Dance School.
The distinguished cast also includes Alessandra Amato, Rebecca Bianchi, Susanna Salvi, Alessio Rezza, Federica Maine, Marianna Suriano, Claudio Cocino, and Michele Satriano among featured interpreters.
Artistic Vision and Production Design
Conductor Nir Kabaretti leads most performances, while Carlo Donadio conducts special performances on December 27, 28, 30, and 31. The Orchestra of the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma performs Tchaikovsky's magnificent score with precision and musicality. Andrea Miglio designed the elaborate sets that transport audiences into the magical world envisioned by Tchaikovsky and Chalmer. Gianluca Falaschi created exquisite costumes that bring each character to vivid life.
Valerio Tiberi's lighting design establishes the dreamlike atmosphere essential to the ballet's emotional impact, while innovative video elements by Igor Renzetti and Lorenzo Bruno enhance the theatrical spectacle without overwhelming the dancers themselves.
Performance Schedule and Duration
The Nutcracker runs from December 17 through December 31, 2025. The complete ballet requires approximately 120 minutes including one intermission. Specific performance dates include December 17, 19, 20, 27, 28, 30, and 31.
Admission and Tickets
For the most current information on admission prices and operating hours, please verify directly on the official website before your visit, as these details may change seasonally.
Venue Location and Access
The Teatro dell'Opera di Roma occupies Piazza Beniamino Gigli, 7 in central Rome, situated near Piazza della Repubblica in the historic heart of the city. Metro Line A connects directly to the Repubblica Teatro dell'Opera station, positioned adjacent to the theatre entrance. Multiple bus routes serve the area conveniently, including routes 60, 64, 70, 71, 116T, and many others. Taxis remain readily available throughout Rome's central districts.
A Quintessential Roman Holiday Experience
Attending a Nutcracker performance at the Teatro dell'Opera represents an essential Christmas tradition appreciated by audiences worldwide. The ballet's universal themes of childhood wonder, magical transformation, and redemption resonate powerfully during the festive season. Whether experiencing this ballet for the first time or as a cherished annual tradition, international visitors will discover why Tchaikovsky's masterpiece continues to enchant audiences more than 130 years after its premiere.
Learn More
For complete schedule information, ticket availability, and booking details, contact Teatro dell'Opera di Roma at +39 06 4816010 or visit the official website.
Official Nutcracker Information at Teatro dell'Opera di Roma
Photo Credits: https://www.operaroma.it/
