The Nutcracker at Maryland Hall

BALLET THEATRE OF MARYLAND PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER WITH AN ANNAPOLIS TWIST

By popular demand, BTM has added more performances of this local holiday tradition

ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 26, 2026) – This holiday season, Ballet Theatre of Maryland’s refreshed production of The Nutcracker returns to the Maryland Hall stage. Steeped in local history, this new take on a classic sees Clara finding the magic of The Nutcracker right here in historic Annapolis. As always, this joyful tradition features exuberant dance, beloved characters, and timeless music to delight audiences of all ages. To extend the festivities, BTM offers a family-friendly Sugar Plum Party before every Sunday show.

With choreography by Artistic Director Nicole Kelsch, BTM’s Nutcracker gives the familiar story local significance. From the exciting naval battle between the Nutcracker and the Rat King to the delicate crabs and oysters that welcome Clara into the glittering Kingdom of Confections, this production celebrates everything that makes Annapolis special. Look closely, and you’ll see nods to local landmarks such as the Annapolis harbor and the William Paca House and Garden sprinkled throughout the show.

Nicole Kelsch says, "When I first started reflecting on reimagining this beloved classic, I kept coming back to the remarkable city of Annapolis. It was a dream come true to bring the city's rich culture and history into The Nutcracker last season, and we are so grateful our audience embraced the production. After a sold-out run last year, we're thrilled to offer more performances this year."

BTM kicks off the holiday season with a performance at Coppermine Pantherplex in Hampstead on Sunday, November 22 at 2 pm. December 12, 13, 19, and 20, the company will perform in Annapolis at its home venue, Maryland Hall. Here, BTM invites audiences to create memories together at a Sugar Plum Party. Ticket holders to this festive event mingle, enjoy light refreshments, and take pictures with their favorite characters the hour before each Sunday performance.

Join Ballet Theatre of Maryland for The Nutcracker this holiday season! In-person tickets are on sale now with discounts for seniors, military, students, and children. For virtual audiences, tickets are $39 per household. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit balletmaryland.org. BTM cautions that BalletMaryland.org and Eventbrite.com are the only official websites for purchasing tickets to performances. Ballet Theatre of Maryland is not responsible for tickets purchased through unauthorized third parties.