A cracking family show

The Nutcracker, Bridgewater Hall, Manchester

THIS timeless classic is like a favourite Christmas decoration — dusted off each year and brought out to take pride of place amid all else that makes the festive season magical.

The enchanting ballet has for decades been a firm seasonal family favourite, and subject to interpretation from many choreographers.

This show, which runs tonight and tomorrow at the Bridgewater Hall, is a condensed version spanning just two hours — including an interval, courtesy of the Russian State Ballet and Orchestra of Siberia.

The evening was entertaining and enjoyable, and a fantastic set of regal and lavish costumes thrilled the eye from start to finish.

The mice, dancing in subservience to their Mouse King, had wonderful costumes and with their well-practised rodent mannerisms, looked for all the world like the bright-eyed, athletic creatures they were meant to be.

Tchaikovsky’s music is some of the most instantly recognisable in all ballet, with a wealth of famous melodies.

Played by a 30-strong orchestra, the music provided a platform for graceful and enjoyable dances from the Prince, Yury Vyskubenko, and partner Maria Kuimova (normally “Clara”, here “Marie”), who were well supported by the rest of the cast.