The London Coliseum’s 2025/26 production of The Nutcracker delivers grandeur, warmth and seasonal magic in a way few London stages can match.
Few ballets are as closely tied to the festive season as The Nutcracker, and this year’s run at the London Coliseum proves exactly why it remains a December staple. From the moment the curtain rises, the production leans confidently into scale and spectacle — making full use of the Coliseum’s vast stage and soaring auditorium.
Visually, this is a lavish affair. The set design is rich without feeling cluttered, shifting smoothly from the cosy intimacy of the Stahlbaum family home to the fantastical shimmer of the Land of Sweets. Snow falls in thick, theatrical flurries, costumes glitter under warm lighting, and Tchaikovsky’s instantly recognisable score fills the hall with a sense of occasion that feels genuinely special rather than routine.
The strength of this production lies in its balance. While the visual elements are undeniably grand, the storytelling remains clear and accessible, making it just as engaging for first-time balletgoers as for seasoned fans. The party scene is lively and well-paced, the transformation sequences are handled with elegance, and the famous Snowflake Waltz is performed with a lightness that feels both precise and joyous.
Dance performances across the company are strong and assured. Clara’s journey through the ballet is charmingly realised, anchoring the fantasy with warmth and curiosity, while the Nutcracker Prince brings a calm authority to the more classical passages. The second act’s divertissements are a particular highlight, offering moments of colour and personality without ever tipping into excess.
What truly sets this production apart is its sense of generosity. It feels designed to welcome audiences in rather than impress them from a distance. There’s an ease to the choreography and staging that allows the music and movement to breathe, and a confidence that comes from knowing exactly what this ballet needs to be at this time of year.
In a city packed with festive entertainment options, The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum stands out as a reliable, uplifting classic done properly. It’s polished, joyful and immersive — a reminder that some traditions endure for a reason.
Whether you’re marking the start of the festive season or returning to a familiar favourite, this production offers an evening that feels celebratory in the best possible way.