Tutu Good to Pass Up
Cincinnati Ballet is giving families and fans a reason to think about snowflakes, sweets, and stage lights in the middle of summer. From July 21 through July 25, the company is launching its annual Nutcracker in July ticket promotion, offering a Buy One, Get One Half Off deal for select performances of The Nutcracker, presented by the Sheakley Family, this December at Music Hall.
The sale applies to seats in Zones 1 through 4 and is limited to four tickets per transaction. Premium seating and Zone 5 are excluded. This limited-time promotion provides early access to one of Cincinnati’s most treasured holiday traditions and allows audiences to secure seats before the winter ticket rush begins.
A Cincinnati Tradition with Deep Roots
The Nutcracker has been part of the Cincinnati holiday season since 1974, when Cincinnati Ballet first presented it to local audiences. At that time, the company was just over a decade old and still building its artistic identity. The production, though smaller in scale, quickly became a beloved feature of the company’s seasonal offerings.
Throughout the years, the ballet evolved. Under the leadership of former Artistic Director Victoria Morgan, the production underwent a major redesign in the early 2000s. New set designs, vibrant costuming, and expanded choreography brought a fresh visual experience to the stage while preserving the classical roots of the story.
In 2011, Cincinnati Ballet began performing The Nutcracker at Cincinnati Music Hall, adding architectural beauty and improved acoustics to the experience. The grandeur of the venue matched the scale of the performance, reinforcing its place as a marquee cultural event for families across the region.
Today, the production features over 150 performers, including company dancers, students from the Otto M. Budig Academy, and members of the broader community. This blend of professional excellence and local involvement has helped sustain its appeal across generations.
A Production with Local Character
Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker stays true to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score and the traditional storyline, but it also includes playful nods to the Queen City. In recent years, performances have featured creative touches such as Cincinnati-themed set pieces and cameos by local icons. These additions offer a fresh experience for returning audiences without altering the timeless core of the production.
Now led by Artistic Director Jodie Gates, the company continues to refine and elevate the performance while honoring its longstanding place in Cincinnati’s arts scene. Each season brings new energy and polish, maintaining the high standard that local audiences have come to expect.
The Advantage of Planning Ahead
The Nutcracker in July promotion allows audiences to plan their holiday entertainment early, avoiding the high demand and limited availability that often comes in late fall. With the most popular showtimes often selling out, this offer gives buyers a head start on securing seats for friends and family.
Purchases must be made through the Cincinnati Ballet website or by calling the box office at (513) 621-5282. The offer is available only from July 21 to July 25. It is limited to select December performances and cannot be applied to previously purchased tickets. Additional fees may apply at checkout.
Building Holiday Memories That Last
Clara’s journey with the Nutcracker Prince continues to inspire audiences year after year. The swirling snow, the magic of the Land of Sweets, and the rich melodies of the orchestra combine to create an experience that many children and adults look forward to throughout the year.
This summer sale offers more than a discount. It is a reminder that the most meaningful memories often begin with a little bit of planning. For families looking to celebrate the season in a way that is joyful, cultural, and rooted in local tradition, Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker remains one of the most rewarding experiences the city has to offer.
To explore available dates and purchase tickets, visit cballet.org.