A beloved Christmas classic is set to bring holiday magic to the stage as Ayala Land, Circuit Makati, and Samsung Performing Arts Theater, with the support of GCash and HSBC, present The Nutcracker for the first time at the venue from December 11 to 13, 2026.
The landmark production will feature performers from Ballet Manila, the country’s premier classical ballet company, alongside dancers from Steps Dance Studio, one of the Philippines’ largest dance schools.
First premiered in 1892, The Nutcracker has enchanted generations with its breathtaking choreography, unforgettable characters, and iconic score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Its debut at Samsung Performing Arts Theater marks an important milestone for the venue, further strengthening its commitment to bringing world-class productions and memorable cultural experiences to Filipino audiences.
A Distinguished Filipino Creative Team
This special staging brings together some of the country’s accomplished artists and creatives to reimagine the timeless ballet.
Internationally acclaimed designer Gino Gonzales, recipient of the 2024 CCP Gawad Para sa Sining for Theater, will lead the production’s set and costume design. Lighting design will be handled by Monino Duque, recipient of the 2023 Aliw Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.
The production will be restaged by acclaimed ballet coach and choreographer Jeffrey Espejo, whose artistic direction aims to give the classic a fresh interpretation while preserving its enduring appeal.
A Magical Christmas Eve Adventure
Set on Christmas Eve, The Nutcracker follows young Clara, who receives a beautifully crafted Nutcracker doll that leads her into an extraordinary dream.
As midnight strikes, the doll comes to life, taking Clara on a fantastical journey filled with courageous battles, enchanted forests, and dazzling kingdoms. Together, they defeat the fearsome Mouse King before traveling through the sparkling Kingdom of Snow and arriving at the magnificent Land of the Sweets.
There, the Sugar Plum Fairy welcomes them with a spectacular celebration of dance inspired by confections and cultures from around the world.
Through its blend of fantasy, music, and extraordinary artistry, The Nutcracker continues to capture the imagination of audiences of all ages, celebrating the wonder of Christmas and the limitless possibilities of childhood dreams.
A New Holiday Tradition Begins
With its distinguished creative team, spectacular production design, and exceptional performers, this inaugural staging promises a memorable theatrical experience for families, longtime ballet enthusiasts, and first-time audiences alike.
More than a holiday performance, The Nutcracker invites audiences to rediscover the childlike wonder of the season and celebrate Christmas through one of the world’s most treasured classical ballets—marking the beginning of a new holiday tradition at Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
Tickets are available exclusively through TicketWorld.
For updates, follow the official The Nutcracker Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as Samsung Performing Arts Theater on Facebook and Instagram.
