Where to see the Nutcracker ballet in Indianapolis
PSSST: We were really happy to work with our sponsor, Butler Arts & Events Center, today to share this information with you!
Don’t know about you but we watched The Nutcracker ballet on repeat as kids. Maybe it was my mom’s love of Mikhail Baryshnikov (who I later adored as Carrie’s beau Aleksandr Petrovsky in Sex and the City), or maybe it’s the iconic music, but it became a holiday tradition. And whether you’re incorporating it into your own family’s traditions or are just a ballet enthusiast, there are plenty of opportunities to see the Nutcracker ballet in and around Indianapolis this year.
Image shared with thanks to the Butler Arts & Events Center
Here’s where to see the Nutcracker ballet in Indianapolis:
Indiana Ballet Conservatory
This version is closest to that of the original Nutcracker ballet that debuted over 100 years ago in Russia, so you won’t want to miss this timeless and beloved holiday favorite!
Dates: November 26-27, 2022
Location: The Center for the Performing Arts at the Palladium, Carmel
Don’t miss this CityMom fave from Butler Ballet
Like the holiday season, Butler Ballet‘s family tradition returns once again. Come join us in the celebration of gathering together to revel in the magic and spectacle of live ballet; spectacular dancing, beautiful costumes, glorious scenery, and pyrotechnical flash. Once again, the brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s music will be brought to life by the Butler Ballet Orchestra and the Indianapolis Children’s Choir under the direction of Richard Auldon Clark.
Dates: December 1-4, 2022
Location: Clowes Memorial Hall, Butler University, Indianapolis
Nutcracker Short & Suite by Village Dance Studio
The Village Dance Studio brings you excerpts from The Nutcracker, a holiday classic ballet. We have designed this production to be friendly for all families, as the Nutcracker Ballet is a magical part of the holiday season and should be enjoyed by everyone. Some changes from a traditional production include narration, raised house lighting & lowered music (1pm), flexible seating for wheelchairs, and a shortened performance.
Date: December 4, 2022
Location: Zionsville West Middle School, Zionsville
LOOKING FOR MORE? Peek our guide to all of the top holiday performances in Indianapolis
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre
This full-length modern version of The Nutcracker features the highly talented dancers of G2, students from The Academy of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, and others as they fill the stage with movement and color! This magical version portrays Klara as a homeless orphan girl who discovers the true meaning of the season through the giving spirit of another homeless person. The Nutcracker is a family favorite and is sure to add joy and cheer to your holiday season.
Date: December 4-6, 2022
Location: Pike Performing Arts Center, Indianapolis
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble
A beloved classic, The Nutcracker is a magical holiday must-see. Join in Clara’s dazzling adventure as she is swept away by her Nutcracker Prince to The Land of Sweets. Witness waltzing flowers, swirling snowflakes, and a courageous battle between toy soldiers and mice in this enchanting production. Set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score, The Nutcracker is made complete with beautiful choreography, costumes, and sets.
Dates: December 9-11, 2022
Location: STAR Bank Performing Arts Center, Zionsville
Nutcracker Sweets by the Indianapolis Ballet
A Nutcracker ballet Indianapolis holiday tradition returns to The Toby this December. Join the Indianapolis Ballet to experience Nutcracker Sweets, a condensed version of The Nutcracker. This is a one hour matinee performance.
Dates: December 9-11, 2022
Location: The Toby Theater, Newfields, Indianapolis
Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy
This is a family-friendly production with plenty of pre- and post-show activities to get everyone into the holiday spirit. Children and adults alike will be thrilled to pick out a delicious treat at the Land of Sweets Bake Sale. And finishing your Christmas shopping will be easy as you browse the splendid Nutcracker Boutique, filled with handmade and specially selected items. After the show, dancers will be available for a meet-and-greet and photos in the lobby.
Dates: December 16-18, 2022
Location: STAR Bank Performing Arts Center, Zionsville
The Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum
Ballet INitiative presents the classic story of Clara and her Nutcracker doll, with a twist! Set to both the original Tchaikovsky score and Duke Ellington’s jazzy suite, you’ll enjoy the tapping Nutcracker, whirling snowflakes, and the Sugar Plum Fairy along with Charleston’s, flappers, and of course, jazz!
Dates: December 16-18, 2022
Location: Basile Theatre at the Athenaeum, Indianapolis
Indianapolis Ballet
An Indianapolis holiday season tradition continues with the Tchaikovsky masterpiece. Join us at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre to experience Indianapolis Ballet’s iconic holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Indianapolis Ballet is thrilled to bring our audiences joy, laughter, and love through magical storytelling and dancing.
Dates: December 16-18, 2022
Location: Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, Indianapolis
