The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY: What to Know Before You Go
Discover the magic of The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY. Learn the story, costumes, and live orchestra details before seeing Rochester City Ballet’s holiday classic.
Rochester City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is the city’s longest-running holiday tradition, with professional and community dancers from across the Greater Rochester Area performing each year. Tchaikovsky’s score comes to life as dancers leap on stage to live music from the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. The Nutcracker is also one of the best productions to introduce children to the art of ballet. It’s engaging and full of Christmas spirit!
If you’re planning to see The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY, we cover 5 things you should know about our production, including the overall story, tips for watching the ballet with kids, and insights into our community children dancers!
Related: Reserve Tickets to the Rochester, NY, production of The Nutcracker.
1. Reviewing The Nutcracker Story Makes the Ballet Easier to Follow
Ballet is a visual art with no words, which can make it harder for people to understand the plot. If you’re new to ballet, knowing the story beforehand can help you follow along with the performance, including who the characters are, what their motivations are, and why they’re dancing or behaving a certain way.
So what’s the story of The Nutcracker ballet?
The Nutcracker ballet follows a young girl named Clara, who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve from her godfather Drosselmeyer. After her brother Fritz breaks the doll, Drosselmeyer repairs it and places it under the Christmas Tree.
After everyone goes to bed, Clara returns to check on the Nutcracker when the clock strikes midnight. Suddenly, Clara is transported to a dream-like world where the Nutcracker has come to life. The pair are caught in a battle between the Mouse King and his army and the Toy Soldiers. The Nutcracker defeats the Mouse King and is transformed into the Prince of the Land of Sweets.
They then tour the Land of Snowflakes and watch fantastical performances in the Kingdom of Sweets with themes from around the world. It’s a holiday fairytale that blends music, dance, and the magic of Christmas!
2. Sensory-Friendly The Nutcracker Performances Are More Accessible to Kids
While The Nutcracker is a great ballet for kids of all ages, children (and people!) have different needs and interest levels. Rochester City Ballet strives to make The Nutcracker more accessible with free sensory-friendly performances that make it easier for families to experience the show without traditional theater rules. These performances are designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, sensory sensitivities, and other needs.
This year, our sensory-friendly The Nutcracker performance will be held on Sunday, December 7, at 11 AM at Fort Hill Performing Arts Center in Canandaigua.
What to Expect at Sensory-Friendly The Nutcracker Performances:
No shushing rule!
Lower sound levels
No jarring special effects, including flashing lights or loud noises
Theater lights remain on
Audience members can move around and leave as needed
Audience members can use iPads and other electronics for therapeutic uses
Designated quiet areas outside of the theater
We also provide free mini-performances of The Nutcracker throughout Greater Rochester for young kids and families who might have trouble sitting through a full show. These performances help create a welcoming environment for the community and encourage people to enjoy and participate in the local arts!
Related: Reserve a spot at our sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker and view our list of outreach performances.
3. RCB Features Young Community Dancers to Nurture Local Talent
As a community-focused ballet company, Rochester City Ballet casts community dancers and local students to perform alongside our professional leads. Our goal is to help young dancers experience what it’s like to participate in a professional production. Working with prestigious, top-level dancers can also give students insights into how to prepare for a professional dance career.
RCB works with about 220 community children in Rochester and Canandaigua to put on The Nutcracker. Young dancers can audition for extra roles such as Party Children, Mice, and Snowflakes. No dance experience is necessary for dancers aged 5–12. Practices are held throughout the week, with different times and durations depending on the age group.
4. Rochester City Ballet Tailors the Costumes In-House
The costumes in Rochester City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker (and many other shows) are created by RCB’s Wardrobe Mistress. She works alongside many community volunteers to mend and repair costumes, updating pieces every year to maintain their vibrancy and keep in spirit with the new production.
When crafting the pieces, our wardrobe mistress incorporates details that communicate the character’s personality while still being visually coherent with the cast at large.
Last year, she created five breathtaking French Mint ribbon tutus and an entire array of costumes for the Land of Snowflakes dancers. That included 18 Snowflakes, the Snow Queen, and the Snow King costumes. This year, she plans to create new costumes for the Angels, Arabian Corps, Sugar Plum Fairy, and Cavalier.
5. Watching The Nutcracker With a Live Orchestra Makes All the Difference
RCB is honored to partner with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra for the 26th year in a row to perform The Nutcracker! It’s a treat to experience a live orchestra at a ballet performance, not only because of the artistry involved, but also because live music enhances the immersion. An orchestra brings energy, drama, and impact to every scene. And the dancers are responding to the flow of the music.
This year, Tara Simoncic will return to conduct the RPO for The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY. Simoncic remains a highly sought-after conductor and is widely recognized as one of the top ballet conductors in the U.S. Audiences can look forward to her passion and warm approach to this holiday classic!
FAQs about The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY
When is The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY, and where will it be?
The Nutcracker will be held between November 26–30, 2025, at the Eastman Theatre at Kodak Hall and December 5–7, 2025, at Fort Hill Performing Arts Center. We are also performing a sensory-friendly show at Fort Hill. Check our ticket calendar for specific times and dates.
Additionally, Rochester City Ballet will organize free mini-performances of The Nutcracker around Greater Rochester that are free to the public. Follow us on our social media accounts to stay updated on performances.
How long is The Nutcracker?
Rochester City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a full-length ballet in two acts, running about 1 hour and 45 minutes. There is a 15-minute intermission after Act I.
What Is the Nutcracker based on?
The Nutcracker ballet is an adaptation of a German Fairytale called “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” (Nussknacker und Mausekönig). The original short story centers on the war between the Mouse Kingdom and the Land of the Sweets, with darker themes typical of older fairytales.
Why is The Nutcracker so famous?
The Nutcracker has become a holiday tradition worldwide because of its festive themes, enchanting story, and memorable score! It’s also one of the most widely performed ballets in the United States, making it a beloved introduction to ballet for many audiences.
Is The Nutcracker the same every year?
No, all The Nutcracker performances are not the same and may differ year to year! While the core story stays the same, directors and choreographers may choose to rearrange or remove certain dances and adjust the choreography for different purposes. This allows the ballet company to showcase their high-level talent while entertaining the audience.
Is The Nutcracker appropriate for kids?
Yes, The Nutcracker is a family-friendly ballet that’s appropriate for people of all ages. If an individual needs special accommodations, we also perform sensory-friendly productions as well as mini-performances for younger children.
See The Nutcracker Performed by Rochester City Ballet
If you’re looking to experience The Nutcracker in Rochester, NY, there’s no better way than seeing it performed by the Rochester City Ballet with live accompaniment from the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Between the story, costumes, and community involvement, this performance captures the heart of the holiday season.
Be sure to purchase your tickets early (this holiday favorite sells out quickly every year)!
Rochester City Ballet announces a dazzling 2025|2026 Season
It’s with great excitement that we announce Rochester City Ballet’s 2025/2026 Season—a journey through captivating performances, inspiring collaborations, and unforgettable moments. This year, we’re pushing boundaries, building new partnerships, and offering new opportunities to connect with the magic of dance. The 2025/2026 season for Rochester City Ballet is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Here’s what you can expect from our upcoming season:
SYNERGY: RCB & CNYB
October 18, 2025 | Everson Museum, Syracuse, NY
We are kicking off the season with something special: a groundbreaking residency in Syracuse, NY in collaboration with Syracuse University and Central New York Ballet at the Everson Museum. SYNERGY will bring together the talented dancers of both companies for an evening celebrating the power of movement, creativity, and community. This performance, held in one of Syracuse's most iconic cultural venues, will be an exciting showcase of the artistic possibilities when two ballet companies come together in harmony.
THE NUTCRACKER
November + December, 2025 | Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre & Fort Hill Performing Arts Center
Step into the magic of the holiday season with The Nutcracker, a cherished Rochester tradition. With live music from the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, dazzling costumes, and exquisite choreography, this production brings to life Clara’s dreamlike journey to a land of sparkling snow and delectable sweets. Whether it’s your first time or a family tradition, The Nutcracker is a must-see celebration of wonder and joy.
ROMEO & JULIET SUITE
January 31 & February 1, 2026 | Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre
The tragic and timeless love story of Romeo & Juliet comes to life in a stunning performance, featuring Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet Suite. Set to the evocative and passionate score of one of the greatest composers, this suite brings the romance and drama of Shakespeare’s iconic play to the stage. Presented with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, this production, directed by Andreas Delfs, will take you on an emotional journey of love, loss, and the enduring power of passion. This is a must-see for lovers of classical ballet and theater alike.
NEXT UP! - A Choreographic Showcase
February 28, 2026 | St. John Fisher University’s NEW Black Box Theatre
Don’t miss NEXT UP!, a unique and intimate choreographic showcase that celebrates the raw beauty of dance. This performance, set in the new Black Box Theatre at St. John Fisher University, will feature short works by emerging choreographers—many of whom are members of the RCB company. With minimal sets and costumes, this performance allows the pure artistry of movement to take center stage in an intimate setting.
CINDERELLA
April 25-26, 2026 | Robert F. Panara Theatre at Rochester Institute of Technology
After more than three decades, Cinderella returns to the RIT stage! Rochester City Ballet is proud to present this full-length fairytale classic at RIT’s School of Performing Arts, complete with breathtaking costumes, captivating music, and spellbinding choreography. It’s a magical experience you won’t want to miss.
MOTHER GOOSE SUITE
May 17 | Hochstein Performance Hall
With the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite springs to life in this delightful performance for young audiences. Classic fairy tales meet music and movement in an afternoon of pure enchantment — a perfect introduction to ballet and symphonic storytelling.
A Season of Storytelling, Collaboration & Creativity
Join Rochester City Ballet this season as we celebrate the timeless beauty of ballet while embracing new ideas and voices. Whether you’re a longtime patron or a first-time guest, we invite you to experience the power of dance — from the grand stages of Eastman Theatre to the intimate magic of a black box theater.
Stay connected with us @rochestercityballet and visit rochestercityballet.com for more details.
Let the season inspire you. ✨
Rochester City Ballet welcomes eight dancers to the Company
Rochester City Ballet Artistic Directors Megan Kamler & Shannon Rodriguez announce the 2024–2025 season roster. The Company includes a roster of 16 professional dancers from around the nation. One dancer joins the main Company, five Apprentices, and two Junior Apprentices.
“We have an extremely talented roster of dancers at Rochester City Ballet this season, and we are thrilled to welcome these new Company members and Apprentices from around the country,” said Artistic Director Megan Kamler. “I am looking forward to seeing them shine in our diverse season that showcases the best of ballet with beloved classical favorites and exciting premieres. Our audiences will enjoy watching and getting to know the dancers and what they will bring to our versatile repertoire.”
Rochester City Ballet welcomes eight new dancers to the Company: Olivia Bevilacqua (Rochester, NY), Samantha Goodelle (Charlotte, North Carolina), Lily Janneck (Maui, Hawaii), Elizabeth Pinel (Sarasota, Florida), Sofia Stitz (Dumont, New Jersey), Marlena Roberts (Baltimore, Maryland), Jessica Bealer (Reading, Pennsylvania), and Sophia Barnard-Decann (Rochester, NY).
Introducing the eight new dancers for the 2024/2025 Season!
Olivia Bevilacqua
Rochester, NY
Company Dancer
Marlena Roberts
Baltimore, Maryland
Apprentice
Lily Janneck
Maui, Hawaii
Apprentice
Samantha Goodelle
Charlotte, North Carolina
Apprentice
Elizabeth Pinel
Sarasota, Florida
Apprentice
Sofia Stitz
Dumont, New Jersey
Apprentice
Sophia Barnard-Decann
Rochester, NY
Junior Apprentice
Jessica Bealer
Reading, Pennsylvania
Junior Apprentice
Rochester City Ballet announces 2024|2025 Season
ROCHESTER, NY – Rochester City Ballet is proud to present performance details for their upcoming 2024-2025 season. Experience beloved traditions, riveting world premieres, and inspiring stories of love, unison, and magic in a season in which the future of the company is defined.
Honoring their history and celebrating a promising future, Rochester City Ballet’s 37th year is filled with the best of classical and contemporary ballet, showcasing the incredible versatility of the artists. Our 24-25 season continues to uphold the reputation of Rochester City Ballet as a leader in the arts community.
The new season officially launches in September, but RCB encourages patrons to join them for their summer performances at various local venues to be announced. Dancers of Rochester City Ballet are thrilled to bring back the third annual Booze N’ Ballet event at Kin Event Space on August 31st, an evening that celebrates local creations.
Agua Fresca
September 2024 | School of the Arts
We open our season at the Rochester Fringe Festival with the world premiere of Agua Fresca. Choreographed by Aldo Katton, Agua Fresca opens a path for connection and celebration of Latin-American communities. The Afro-Caribbean influences and poetry of the Spanish language will fill your ears with words that ring and melt simultaneously.
The evening also features a world premiere by Artistic Director, Megan Kamler. So On, and So Forth is inspired by the trials and tribulations of women in the arts and the merits of being female in today's day and age. So On, and So Forth demonstrates themes of connection, isolation, unison, and support. The music and the fluidity of this new piece of contemporary ballet will inspire audience members of all ages.
The Nutcracker - Celebrating 25 Years
November + December 2024 | Eastman Theatre
Join us for Rochester’s favorite holiday tradition, The Nutcracker. Whirling snowflakes, marching soldiers, and waltzing flowers are the perfect highlight to every family's winter festivities. This season, the company celebrates the 25th anniversary with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
Embark on an enchanting journey alongside Clara, who ventures from her bedroom into the wondrous realm of The Land of Sweets. Perfect for ballet and theatre lovers of all ages, The Nutcracker will immerse you in an unforgettable experience that reignites the childlike wonder within each and every one of us.
Help us celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Nutcracker with the RPO!
Carnival of the Animals & Other Tales
February 2025 | Fort Hill Performing Arts Center
We jump into the new year with a new take on Carnival of the Animals. This family-friendly ballet is set to Camille Saint-Saëns’ humorous musical suite of 14 movements. The work features whimsical costumes and narration from the delightful Ogden Nash poem. Celebrating creatures from the ponderous elephant to the manic kangaroo, to the plodding tortoise, this ballet is sure to be a favorite for adults and children of all ages.
VISIONARY: A Mixed Bill
February 2025 | RIT Panara Theatre
This sampler of classical and contemporary movement features a world-premiere work by Artistic Director Shannon Rodriguez, Paint My Dream. This cosmic, “mixed media” ballet inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” creates a celestial and interdisciplinary viewing experience for audience members.
VISIONARY is a wonderful opportunity for both dance enthusiasts and newcomers to experience a variety of artistic voices. Paired with Jared Allan Brunson’s Into the Blue, and Aldo Katton’s Agua Fresca, this captivating mixed bill offers audience members an opportunity to experience three new works that showcase the future of ballet.
Anastasia: With The Society for Chamber Music
May 2025 | Nazareth University
The clear headliner for Rochester City Ballet’s 2024/2025 season is a beautiful, brand- new production of Anastasia with the Society for Chamber Music in Rochester, choreographed by Artistic Directors Megan Kamler & Shannon Rodriguez. Based on the intriguing historical mystery, Anastasia revolves around the rumors that the Grand Duchess has escaped the execution of the royal family during the Russian Revolution.
Based on this hearsay, the Grand Duchess offers a reward for Anastasia's return. Hoping to pawn off an imposter, two scheming Russians hold auditions to choose an orphan girl with a remarkable resemblance to the missing princess. They bring her to Paris for the reward, not knowing she's the real Anastasia. You won’t want to miss the chance to see this beloved story brought to life by Rochester City Ballet and the Society for Chamber Music.
With such a rich variety of stories to tell, Rochester City Ballet’s 2024-2025 season will be unforgettable.
Rochester City Ballet gets a new look
The new logo is the first step in redefining Rochester City Ballet’s brand.
Local Graphic Designer and artist Brendan Prince has designed a new logo and identity for Rochester City Ballet. This reworked identity is the first step in a process of rebranding the company (founded in 1987).
“Overall, the current logo feels dated and does not accurately reflect the essence of Rochester City Ballet and the direction the brand is heading. "Rochester" is secondary to "City Ballet." We want equal hierarchy of the full name. I wanted the overall look-and-feel of Rochester City Ballet to feel elegant, strong, and timeless.” -says Prince.
Rochester’s premier ballet company has become a nationally significant dance company and a cherished cultural institution in the Finger Lakes region.
Newly appointed Artistic Directors Megan Kamler and Shannon Rodriguez plan to continue to elevate the artistic vision of Rochester City Ballet with a renewed approach of innovation, inclusion, impact and collaboration to drive the company’s artistic excellence to even greater heights.”
Our new logo, rolling out today, represents the exciting work we do and symbolizes the evolution of the company. The logo was designed with careful consideration of our company’s values, history, and vision for the future” says Rodriguez.
The rebranding is driven by a desire to reflect changes in artistic direction and showcase innovation in choreography and performances. Ballet is an art form that has deep-rooted traditions, but in order to stay relevant in today’s fast-paced world, Rochester City Ballet has chosen to modernize their image.