The Andalusian Nutcracker

Sat, December 20 — Sun, December 21, 2025
Herndon High School, 700 Bennett St, Herndon, Virginia 20170

“The Andalusian Nutcracker” presents Alchemy Ballet‘s re-imagined interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic that incorporates the cultural traditions, musical tones, and dance forms of southern Spain.

Set in Granada, The Andalusian Nutcracker situates the narrative within the Alhambra Palace, where young María receives an Andalusian Horse Nutcracker that transports her into a dream world. The production blends classical ballet with dance, music, and storytelling elements rooted in Andalusian heritage, including Flamenco as well as Moorish, Sephardic, and Middle Eastern influences. The result is a multi-layered presentation that highlights the region’s diverse artistic traditions.

Featuring original choreography by Lorraine Spiegler and Luis Serrano, the adaptation maintains Tchaikovsky’s original score while introducing rhythmic structures, movement styles, and visual motifs drawn from Iberian and Arab cultures. Several key scenes are re-conceived: the opening party scene incorporates a puppet show; the “Arabian” dance reflects traditional Middle Eastern movement; and the “Russian” dance is reinterpreted as an Iberian Horse celebration, including tap elements that replicate hoof rhythms and acrobatic sequences that accentuate the production’s dramatic moments.

Saturday, Dec 20 at 2 pm Mini-Nutcracker. Buy tickets.

Saturday, Dec 20 at 5:30 pm. Full production with Mariana Gatto, Miguel Perez & other guest artists. Buy tickets.

Sunday, Dec 21 at 3:30 pm. Full production with Torcuato Zamora, Furia Flamenca and other guest artists. Buy tickets.