THEATRE
For the latest news, listings and reviews, go to list.co.uk /theatre
SCOTTISH BALLET: THE NUTCRACKER Lovingly restored take on the Christmas classic
Scottish Ballet had quite a year in 2017, presenting its ground-breaking digital season, Under the Skin, then performing at the Royal Opera House in London for the i rst time in its 60-year history. One man who would have been hugely proud
of the company’s achievements is its founder, Peter Darrell. So it seems i tting that this landmark year comes to a close with one of Darrell’s most popular works: The Nutcracker.
First performed in 1974, the ballet was
adored by audiences for many years, until it fell into retirement. Then, in 2014, the original full-length production was taken out of the archive, Philip Prowse’ set was given a brand new look (or ‘re-imagining’) by award-winning designer Lez Brotherston and Darrell’s Nutcracker was back in play.
This lovingly restored production hit the spot with everyone who witnessed it – those
nostalgic for Darrell’s original along with newcomers to the ballet. Happily, three years later, we’ll see those shiny baubles, hear Tchaikovsky’s gorgeous score, and enjoy Darrell’s entertaining choreography once more when Scottish Ballet takes it on tour across Scotland throughout December and January. (Kelly Apter) ■ Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Sat 9–Sat 30 Dec; Theatre Royal, Glasgow, Thu 4–Sat 13 Jan.
1 Nov 2017–31 Jan 2018 THE LIST 115