Rating: ★★★★

Date: Wednesday 8th January 2025

Timing: 1 hour 50 minutes (including interval)

Where: Bristol Hippodrome

National UK Tour: 8th Jan—5th Mar 2025

Though Christmas is now over, the magic of the festive season still has it grasps on me. So on a chilly Wednesday evening in January, I made my way to the iconic Bristol Hippodrome to watch The Nutcracker by Varna International Ballet.

Founded in 1947, the Varna International Ballet is a distinguished Bulgarian ballet company, renowned for its award-winning soloists and exceptional performances. Under the artistic direction of Daniela Dimova and music director and chief conductor Peter Tuleshkov, the company has garnered acclaim both domestically and internationally.

This was my first experience of going to the ballet, and there really is something truly majestic about being able to witness what is a beautiful work of art unfolding before your eyes.

Many may be familiar with the tale of The Nutcracker. It’s Christmas Eve, the snow is falling outside whilst all are tucked away inside in front of the Christmas tree and warming fire. Then, midnight strikes and we’re swept away into an enchanted fairy-tale world where all is not quite as it seems.

Performing under the direction of Tuleshkov, the orchestra was fantastic. From the magical playing of the harp, to the playful chimes of the triangle, the orchestra were captivating. I found this playfulness to be a key theme throughout the story of The Nutcracker. We were taken on a journey where we followed the evolution of the characters whilst travelling through the world created by Dimova.

The calibre of the performers was excellent. As a first time attendee to the ballet, I was astounded by the effortlessness and prowess with which these dancers perform. The point work was outstanding. It was amazing to see that the performers were from all corners of the world, including Italy, Ukraine and Brazil to name a few. I found a stand out soloist to be Giovanni Pomepi, the Nutcracker turned Prince, who glided through the air with the weightlessness of a feather during his impressive sequence of grand jetés.

The backdrop of the stage was kept very simple with projections of the scenes which we found ourselves in. Though I must admit, I would have liked this to be a little more vibrant to help further immerse us as the audience into the world of the Nutcracker. With regards to the production, a rather stark lighting was used, and I can’t help feel that manipulating this more through use of spotlights would have added more drama and focus to performances, helping better portray atmosphere, time and mood.

During act two, the solo performances really picked up, highlighting the true athleticism of the dancers and the synergy with which they perform alongside the orchestra. It’s incredible to think that during their time here in Bristol, they’re showcasing three different productions.

Overall, I’d describe the performance as a meditative experience, a true showcase of the beauty of ballet. It was light-hearted and what I’d describe as a ballet for all.

Head to www.atgtickets.com to book tickets and explore what’s on.

For those wanting an extra special evening out, you can book your early dinner at The Square Club nested away on leafy Berkeley Square before heading down Park Street for your evening at the theatre. Needing to stay the night? The Berkeley Suites, offer the ultimate luxury night away, having recently won the Conde-Naste award of excellence.