The magic of Christmas comes to life at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall in January 2026, with the presentation of the full version of the legendary ballet “The Nutcracker” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, choreographed by Vasily Vainonen. The International Classical Ballet, starring distinguished Bolshoi soloists and an elite corps de ballet, brings the stage to life with a highly aesthetic performance, rich in spectacular sets, authentic costumes and enchanting special effects.
For the first time in Thessaloniki, the complete form of the masterpiece that conquered stages around the world and became established as the ultimate symbol of Christmas is being presented.
E.T.A. Hoffmann's fairy tale "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King" inspired Tchaikovsky to create one of the most brilliant and beloved musical compositions in world ballet.
Vainonen's choreography, first performed at the Kirov (Mariinsky) Theatre in 1934, is now considered a classic in the repertoire of the greatest ballet theatres internationally.
The story takes us to Christmas Eve, when little Maria's godfather, the eccentric Drosselmeyer, gives her a strange wooden soldier – the Nutcracker.
As the clock strikes midnight, little Maria's world is transformed: the toys come to life, the mice attack, and the Nutcracker, victorious in the battle, transforms into a handsome Prince.
Together they travel to Candy Land, meet the Candy Fairy, and live a dream that culminates with the dawn of Christmas.
"The Nutcracker" remains a fairy tale about magic, childhood imagination and the power of dreams. A work that has moved young and old for over a century!

International classical ballet with leading soloists of the Bolshoi ballets
Music: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Choreography: Vasili Vainonen adapted by Yuri Grigorovich
Libretto: Yuri Grigorovich (based on ETA Hoffmann and Marius Petipa)
Production: International Art Bureau of Nina Avramenko
View & Contact: ArtsPR
Thessaloniki Concert Hall (25th March & Beach)
Watch the trailer here: https://youtube.com/shorts/5aoGZ_FOlws

















































