The Nutcracker: Why We Keep Coming Back Every Christmas

Every December, just as the tinsel starts shedding and everyone swears they’re done with year-end functions, The Nutcracker pirouettes back into theatres as if it owns the season. And somehow, it does. Even people who haven’t set foot in a ballet studio since they were forced into pink tights at age six know the music, the story, and that Sugar Plum Fairy solo that sneaks into every advert from Sandton to Soweto.

But what gives The Nutcracker such staying power? Why this ballet, when Christmas is overflowing with holiday specials, cheesy movies, and Mariah Carey defrosting on schedule?

The Enduring Appeal of The Nutcracker Every Christmas

Firstly, it’s comfort. The kind we actually want. The Nutcracker isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s tradition with glitter. Every scene feels familiar—snowflakes swirling, toy soldiers marching, that ridiculously charming party scene where the adults are tipsy on Christmas cheer. Audiences know what’s coming, and that’s exactly why they show up. In a world where everything updates daily—phones, algorithms, petrol prices—we need at least one thing that stays the same.

Secondly, it’s fantasy. Proper fantasy. Not the CGI overdose we’re fed on streaming platforms. The Nutcracker gives you magic that feels handmade: a growing Christmas tree, a toy coming to life, and a kingdom made of sweets. There’s something beautifully old-school about it. It’s the kind of magic that reminds us we once believed in impossible things—and maybe still want to.

And then there’s Tchaikovsky. That score is unstoppable. You hear three bars and you’re already picturing snow. The music carries so much nostalgia, directors can reinvent the sets and costumes every year and audiences won’t complain, as long as the celesta still sparkles in the Sugar Plum Fairy’s variation.

The Moral and the Magic Behind Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker

But beneath the fantasy, there’s a moral that sneaks up on you: courage grows in ordinary places. Clara (or Marie, depending on which version you watch) isn’t a superhero. She’s a child who steps into danger because she cares. She saves the Nutcracker not with brute strength but with loyalty, curiosity, and heart. It’s a reminder that bravery doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it’s quiet, instinctive, and soft. Sometimes it comes in the form of choosing kindness over fear.

The other message—one we forget—is about imagination. The ballet asks us to look at the world with the same wonder we had before life got complicated. Adults watch it for the nostalgia; kids watch it because they still live in that space. And maybe that’s why families go back year after year: it’s a shared moment where everyone, regardless of age, gets permission to dream.

So The Nutcracker remains a Christmas classic not because it’s perfect, but because it gives us what the season promises: a little magic, a little memory, and a story that whispers that maybe—just maybe—the world is bigger and kinder than it seems.

And honestly? That’s a message we could use long after the decorations come down.

Win 1 of 3 Double Tickets to The Nutcracker (Worth R1,160)

Cape Ballet Africa presents Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, at the Teatro!

Cape Ballet Africa presents Tchaikovsky’s festive favourite, The Nutcracker, at the Teatro from 4 December.

Come witness South Africa’s finest classical dancers alongside renowned international guest stars as they bring this enchanting score to life. Be transported to a dreamlike world of dancing snowflakes, the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and be enchanted by this classic tale of the courageous Nutcracker Prince as he battles to save his Princess.

Dazzling choreography and stunning costumes complement the enchanting score in this brand-new production. From the iconic Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the vibrant Waltz of the Flowers, every moment is a visual feast for the senses.

Choreographed by the renowned London-based Maina Gielgud and with magnificent sets designed by Michael Mitchell, this timeless tradition captures the wonder and joy of the festive spirit.

Cape Ballet Africa’s The Nutcracker promises a magical production with breathtaking precision from this 50-strong Company that will bring heart-warming emotion to the Teatro stage.

We’re giving away 3 double tickets to The Nutcracker, at the Teatro

To enter, simply share this post on Facebook or Twitter with the hashtags:

#TheNutcrackerTeatro

(or comment below why you want to go!).

Save The Date: Saturday, 6 Dec 2025 19:30.

T&Cs
Winners will be randomly selected.
Competition closes on Sunday, 30 November 2025.
Winners announced on Monday, 1 December 2025.
Prizes are not transferable or redeemable for cash.
Winners will be announced on social media and JoziStyle.

Tickets are available now at Webtickets.co.za.