Image Credit:  Birmingham Hippodrome (CCAttribution-Share Alike 4.0 International)

The Nutcracker with Birmingham Royal Ballet by Tchaikovsky

Thursday 4th December 2025

Over 45 members joined us for this festive visit to see The Nutcracker.

Despite the heavy rain when leaving Cirencester,  spirits remained high.  We enjoyed a smooth coach journey to Birmingham and were conveniently dropped off in the city centre, allowing time to explore at leisure.  Some members enjoyed coffee at Selfridges in the Bullring shopping centre, browsed the renowned German Christmas Market, or visited Birmingham Cathedral with its stunning Edward Burne-Jones stained-glass windows. Others took the opportunity to explore the Museum and Art Gallery.

After lunch, we gathered at the Birmingham Hippodrome for the highlight of the day – the matinee performance of The Nutcracker, performed by the Birmingham Royal Ballet.  Our excellent circle seats gave us a wonderful view, enabling us to fully appreciate the magical performance.  Directed by Carlos Acosta, the staging was stunning and much enjoyed by all with some amazing effects including falling snow and a flying goose! The costumes were exquisite, and Tchaikovsky’s music added another dimension to this enchanting ballet.

What a great start to Christmas!