When I was offered the opportunity to go and see Birmingham Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Birmingham Hippodrome, I was originally hesitant. Despite having a theatrical background and being involved with performing from a young age, dance itself was never something that I was particularly interested in. 

Growing up in a small town in the North of England, I had never really been exposed to ballet. My only experience in this area was taking a few ballet classes in primary school. I loved it, convinced my parents to buy me all the required kit, and then proceeded to never go again. Something my parents love to remind me of. 

Professional ballet productions always seemed intimidating to me and before my first visit, I had many unjust preconceived ideas about them. Before I attended the performance, I assumed that I was not part of the intended target audience and that I would not understand what was going on. I didn’t really think it would be my cup of tea, but I could not have been more wrong.

From start to finish, I was absolutely spellbound by The Nutcracker and I did not want it to end. From the first note of the orchestra in the overture to the very last bow, I was taken on a magical journey by the company. I was originally nervous that the story would not be clear. However, I have come to realise that ballet dancers are not only technically skilled, they are also masters in storytelling. Even if you are worried about not understanding the plot, fears are easily quelled by giving the story a quick Google before your visit.

Ballet is often stigmatised as being inaccessible and boring, especially for younger people, when in fact this could not be further from the truth. The Nutcracker in particular, fully deserves its status as the ultimate family friendly ballet experience. This production was the perfect introduction to the ballet world and I would recommend everyone to go and see it no matter your age or prior ballet experience. 

The beauty, talent and grace of the performers along with Birmingham Royal Ballet’s sets, costume, lighting and orchestra combined to form a mesmerising evening and one that changed my opinion of ballet forever. Having been to see many musical productions in my time where there was singing, acting and dancing going on at the same time, The Nutcracker provided a rare opportunity to solely focus on the beautiful medium of dance and led me to appreciate the awe-inspiring talent of the performers. Off the back of my trip to The Nutcracker I also went to go and see Swan Lake, which was a unique experience but equally as entertaining.

I am so grateful that I have had the opportunity to change my preconceptions about the world of ballet. Without being given the ticket, I would have never thought to go to a ballet production and I hate to think of all the opportunities I would have missed if I had not gone that day. I enjoyed the experience so much, I have started taking beginner ballet lessons myself. This led to me having the privilege to work with the Birmingham Royal Ballet LEAP department this year, which has been one of the highlights of my time at university. My past self would never have believed this, but ballet has truly changed my university experience.

The world class Birmingham Royal Ballet is right on our doorstep. They frequently put on productions at the Birmingham Hippodrome as well as around the country, with tickets available at all price ranges. There are also other productions available including those by Matthew Bourne, so there are no lack of choices in the city of Birmingham. I implore others to utilise these opportunities to enrich our cultural awareness and try new things. Furthermore, after the COVID-19 pandemic theatres and arts companies will need support more than ever before.

My advice? Give it a go. Take a leap of faith – I am sure you will not regret your visit.

Read more about the world of dance:

Ballet Live Streams – The Professionals Making Ballet Accessible to All

Anjali Dance Company

Dance: Art or a Sport?