The Nutcracker: the Casse-Noisette ballet in New York
The Nutcracker is a fairy tale ballet created by Tchaikovsky. This show is performed by the New York City Ballet, from November to early January.

Booking The Nutcracker in New York
The Nutcracker is a performance staged every year in New York during the holiday season by the New York City Ballet. An iconic Christmas in New York spectacle! This enchanting ballet was created in 1892 by the renowned Russian composer Piotr Ilitch Tchaikovsky. A timeless classic that stands as one of the most renowned ballets in the world!
The Story of The Nutcracker
- The Nutcracker ballet transports you to Russia on Christmas Eve. The Stahlbaum family is busy preparing for the holiday celebration, and young Masha eagerly awaits her gift. However, when presents are being distributed, Masha seems to have been forgotten. But her mysterious uncle Drosselmeyer has more than one trick up his sleeve and gives her a nutcracker shaped like a tin soldier. A magical object! During the night, the nutcracker transforms into a prince and the little girl’s toys come to life.
- The Nutcracker was first presented in 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg. Since then, this spectacle has become a great classic. In New York, the choreography is signed by the renowned Russian dancer George Balanchine, who passed away in 1983. The Nutcracker in New York thus marks the meeting of two great Russian artists, George Balanchine and Piotr Ilitch Tchaikovsky.

Book Your Tickets for The Nutcracker in New York
- The Nutcracker ballet is on stage at the New York City Ballet every year, from late November to the first days of January. The performance takes place at the David H. Koch Theater, in the heart of the Lincoln Center complex, at the southern end of the Upper West Side. Address: 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York.
- Since this is a seasonal show and particularly in demand, it is essential to book your tickets as early as possible. Especially since the number of performances and available seats are limited! Visit the ticket booking module for The Nutcracker ballet in New York.
- Select your preferred date, knowing that several performances are already sold out. Tickets sell fast! Indicate the number of seats, choose your category, and proceed to payment. You will receive an email confirmation once payment is processed.
- The best seats are located in the orchestra section, the main part of the theater. However, if you wish to pay less, you will find seats distributed across 4 mezzanines. Prices decrease as you go up the floors!
Cancellation Policy
- Tickets for The Nutcracker ballet are non-refundable, non-cancellable, non-modifiable, and non-exchangeable. The show is indeed highly sought after and the New York City Ballet does not allow any changes or cancellations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is The Nutcracker ballet in New York?
The Nutcracker ballet in New York lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, with a 15-minute intermission. The first act lasts exactly 49 minutes and the second act lasts 41 minutes. You should arrive at the entrance at least 30 minutes before the start of the performance to go through security checks.
What is the minimum age to watch The Nutcracker ballet?
The Nutcracker ballet is suitable for children from age 5 and up. It’s not necessary to understand English: ballet is a dance performance that flows from scene to scene. You simply let yourself be carried away by the music and choreography. Children will be delighted to see other children performing on stage. It may even inspire some future dancers!
Seating Chart of the Lincoln Center Theater in New York

The Nutcracker in Photos



