BalletMet The Nutcracker is a favorite holiday tradition in Columbus and will be performed at the historic Ohio Theatre from December 10-26, 2021. This show has been enjoyed in Columbus since 1974 and is something that you’ll want to see year after year with family and friends.
While it isn’t one of the cheapest events in town, it’s one we consider “worth it”. BalletMet, with live music by Columbus Symphony Orchestra, will entertain all ages with the magical choreography, costumes, and sets.
The tale of the imaginative Clara, the nutcracker who turns into a prince, the Mouse King and the Sugarplum Fairy, will feature a large cast including BalletMet’s professional dancers from both its companies – BalletMet and BalletMet 2, along with 152 students from the BalletMet Academy. Each performance will have more than 122 characters onstage – including academy students in the roles of pages, party children, mice, and soldiers performing alongside BalletMet’s renowned professionals.
Arrive early or stay after and explore the holiday lights of downtown Columbus or dine at a local restaurant or bar. The Columbus Commons is just out the back door of the theatre, and will be illuminated in beautiful Christmas lights.
There are several restaurants located on Main St., Gay St. and 4th Street that are within walking distance. Depending on the time and date you select, you may be able to take advantage of some great happy hours in downtown Columbus!
BalletMet The Nutcracker Tickets
Ticket prices range from $63.25 to $105.95 and can be purchased at the CAPA Ticket Center (39 E. State St.) and online at ticketmaster.com. To purchase tickets by phone, please call (614) 469-0939 or (800) 745-3000.
Tickets are generally less expensive when ordered in person or on the phone through the box office, to avoid Ticketmaster fees.
BalletMet The Nutcracker Performances:
- Friday, December 10, 2021 7:30PM
- Saturday, December 11, 2021 12:00PM and 5:30PM
- Sunday, December 12, 2021 12:00PM and 5:30PM
- Wednesday, December 15, 2021 7:30PM
- Thursdays, December 16, 2021 7:30PM
- Friday, December 17, 2021 7:30PM
- Saturday, December 18, 2021 2:00PM and 7:30PM
- Sunday, December 19, 2021 12:00PM and 5:30PM
- Tuesday, December 21, 2021 7:30PM
- Wednesday, December 22, 2021 7:30PM
- Thursday, December 23, 2021 7:30PM
- Friday, December 24, 2021 12:00PM
- Sunday, December 26, 2021 12:00PM
Want to introduce a young child to Balletmet the Nutcracker? In past years there has been a special performance for youth. My First Nutcracker is a special one-hour performance suitable for kids ages 4 and under. This performance may not be held in 2021, but we will update if its scheduled.
Nutcracker photos via BalletMet
Need more holiday fun in Columbus?
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- Holiday Train Rides in Ohio: Santa Trains and Polar Express
- Free and Cheap Activities for Winter Break in Columbus
- Columbus Happy Hours
Val says
I totally get it! Everyone has different traditions they want to spend money on. While I find it worth it for my husband and I to attend, we do not take our children to this yet, as the cost doesn’t make sense for their age and interest yet. However this year the tickets have increased in price as well, but that may be due to capacity limits and the need to recover some of the costs for money lost during the pandemic. The arts were hit especially hard during that time. Luckily for you, we have plenty of inexpensive and free family fun on our website.
James says
Sorry Val, but $316.25 for my family of five to go see the Nutcracker is in the “NOT worth it” category.