Memories and Insights from Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker

November 20, 2025 Off By

Introduction

Northern Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is set to return to Leeds Grand Theatre this Christmas season, running from 18 December 2025 to 4 January 2026. Ahead of the performances, several principal dancers shared their personal memories and experiences related to this classic ballet, offering insights into what audiences can expect from the production.

First Impressions of The Nutcracker

The dancers recalled their earliest encounters with The Nutcracker, highlighting the lasting impression the ballet made on them during childhood.

Sarah Chun, Principal Dancer at Northern Ballet, first saw a version choreographed by Gerald Arpino performed by The Joffrey Ballet. She described being deeply absorbed by the performance and the joy it brought her during the festive season.
Jonathan Hanks, also a Principal Dancer, remembers watching The Royal Ballet’s production featuring Alina Cojocaru as Clara. He was particularly fascinated by the large Christmas tree and the battle scene involving children from The Royal Ballet School.
Rachel Gillespie, First Soloist, saw her first ballet through a televised version of The Nutcracker during the Christmas holidays when she was about seven years old. She was captivated by the costumes, music, and the ballerinas dancing en pointe.

Inspiration to Pursue Ballet

The dancers also reflected on what motivated them to become ballet professionals.

Sarah Chun described ballet as a means of self-expression that helped her overcome shyness and channel her energy creatively.
Jonathan Hanks noted that, after training in various dance styles, his teacher advised him to focus on ballet for a professional career, a suggestion that aligned with his love of classical music.
Rachel Gillespie began ballet classes at the age of three, driven by her energetic nature and passion for dancing.

Favourite Scenes from The Nutcracker

The dancers shared which parts of the ballet they find most memorable or challenging.

Rachel Gillespie favours the Snow Scene, praising its visual beauty, intricate choreography, and the teamwork required to perform it successfully.
Jonathan Hanks highlighted the Grand Pas de Deux in Act II as his favourite, describing it as a challenging but rewarding piece with beautiful music.

What Audiences Can Expect

For those attending The Nutcracker for the first time or returning, the dancers offered a glimpse of the experience.

Sarah Chun mentioned the production’s combination of beautiful dancing, colourful costumes, classical music, and festive atmosphere.
Rachel Gillespie encouraged audiences to simply enjoy a wonderful time at the theatre.

Performance Details

The Nutcracker will be performed at Leeds Grand Theatre from Thursday 18 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026. The story follows Clara’s magical journey with the Nutcracker Prince through a winter wonderland featuring iconic characters such as the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King.