The Midlands region briefly became a winter wonderland a couple of days ago - but clearly, for the theatre-goers who chose to attend Birmingham Hippodrome last night, one winter wonderland in a week simply isn’t enough!

The week’s second breathtaking Birmingham snowfall came courtesy of Sir Peter Wright’s critically acclaimed version of The Nutcracker, making its annual appearance in the Hurst Street theatre’s festive-season programme and being performed, as usual, by the ever-wonderful Birmingham Royal Ballet.

Created in 1990 as a thank-you to the city for its support of the company when it moved to the Midlands from London’s Sadler Wells, Sir Peter’s production is seen by many as the finest interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score. In 2022, the show was enhanced by a £1million makeover, which is sumptuously reflected in the visually stunning sets and amazing special effects, props and costumes.

For those not in the know about The Nutcracker, it’s worth explaining its storyline. The timeless tale takes place in Germany in the early 19th century, at a glamorous Christmas Eve party hosted by lead character Clara’s (Sophia Linares) parents (Jonathan Payn and Daria Stanciulescu). Clara - a ballet student on the cusp of womanhood - is seen enjoying the gathering of friends and family around a resplendent, towering Christmas tree as they watch the candles being lit. She joins in the festive dancing with a young male admirer, whilst at the same time being entertained with the other children by her godfather, Drosselmeyer (Max Maslen), a toy maker and magician.

The highlight of the party for the children are the gifts they receive from Drosselmeyer. Clara’s is a nutcracker, carved to look like a soldier, which she absolutely loves. After the party, unable to sleep, she creeps downstairs for the nutcracker, where she finds Drosselmeyer waiting for her. At the stroke of midnight, he weaves his magic and the Christmas tree grows on stage, giving the illusion that Clara has shrunk to the same size as the nutcracker and a nearby box of toy soldiers - a gift from her grandparents to her mischievous younger brother, Fritz (Lars Hetherington-Howell).

Clara is then alarmingly attacked by the evil and fearsome King Rat (Gabriel Anderson) and his villainous army of repulsive rodents, who come in through the fireplace and try to kidnap her. The nutcracker (Gus Payne) - who turns into a handsome prince - and the toy soldiers spring to life to heroically defend her. A fierce battle ensues, and King Rat is defeated.

With her handsome prince (highly promising newcomer Yasiel Hodelin Bello) by her side, Clara arrives in the Land of Snow, where she meets the Snow Fairy (superbly portrayed by Yu Kurihara). The exquisite and enchanting Waltz Of The Snowflakes - with snow falling on stage, creating a beautiful winter wonderland - brings the first half of the show to a memorable close...

At the beginning of the second act, Clara flies across stage on the back of a white swan to magical, dream-like lands conjured up by Drosselmeyer. Exotic people from all over the world dance for her, including the memorable and mesmerising Arabian, Chinese and Russian dancers.

Using his magic once more, Drosselmeyer turns Clara into the Sugar Plum Fairy, the ballerina of her dreams. It was the Sugar Plum Fairy (Celine Gittens) whose flawless precision and phenomenal skill clearly delighted the audience most of all last night. The grand pas de deux with her prince was simply breathtaking.

As the dancing reaches its climax, however, the dream-world vanishes and Clara wakes up under the Christmas tree with her carved nutcracker, leaving the audience to wonder if the young girl had actually been taken on a magical adventure, or if it had all been a dream.

Sophia Linares takes on the demanding role of Clara - who is on stage for almost the entire show - and gives a splendid performance. Combining great acting, exquisite dancing skills and amazing stamina, she plays the character with a wide-eyed and youthful innocence that really helps the audience to make a meaningful connection.

The choreography throughout the whole performance is truly spectacular. Every single dancer is an absolute delight, bringing an elegance and grace to their performance that seems almost effortless; a testament, of course, to their hard work and self-discipline.

Tchaikovsky’s majestic music and glorious score is performed live by the hugely talented Royal Ballet Sinfonia, conducted by Thomas Jung.

With its gorgeous costumes and sets, stunning special effects and fascinating collection of characters, The Nutcracker is an easy story to follow, making it the perfect family show. As always, Birmingham Royal Ballet deliver an enchanting theatrical experience - one which, for two memorable hours, will transport you to a dazzlingly magical festive world.

If The Nutcracker isn’t already part of your Christmas repertoire, treat yourself to a ticket this year. You will not be disappointed.

Five stars

BRB’s The Nutcracker was reviewed by Sue Hull on its opening night, Friday 22 November, at Birmingham Hippodrome, where it runs until Saturday 14 December