Journey through a magical kingdom

Twenty years after it was first produced, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! is back to delight audiences at Milton Keynes Theatre.

Using unforgettable sets and costumes, Nutcracker! follows Clara’s journey from a bleak Christmas Eve at Dr Dross’ Orphanage through a shimmering winter wonderland to a mouthwatering kingdom of sweets.

Hannah Vassallo, who spent two years playing Baby in the West End production of Dirty Dancing, has been cast as Clara.

Choreographer and director, Matthew Bourne, said: “To help celebrate this evergreen production’s 20th birthday I have decided to cast the show with the next generation of New Adventures dancers, mostly making their debuts in these roles.

“With popular productions such as Nutcracker! now returning to New Adventures’ repertoire on a regular basis, it seems only right to develop and nurture the incredible young talent that we have in the company by giving them bigger opportunities and challenges.

“I am, though, delighted to say that the cast includes our original Clara from 1992, Etta Murfitt, who, along with several other New Adventures veterans, will guide and inspire the younger cast members.”

Nutcracker! is a fresh and charmingly irreverent interpretation of the traditional ballet favourite.

Matthew Bourne is a five time Olivier Award winner.

You can catch Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! when it comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday, February 14 to Saturday, February 18.

Performances will be at 7.30pm each evening with additional 2.30pm matinees on the Wednesday and Saturday.

Tickets cost from £13 to £35 plus a booking fee and they are available from the box office on 08448 717652 or online at www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes