The Return of The Columbus Ballet’s 'The Nutcracker' – Why This Year’s Production is One Families Can’t Miss

Written by TJ Shockley

For nearly three decades, The Nutcracker has been part of the cultural fabric of Columbus. Each holiday season, families gather in the grandeur of the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts to watch dancers young and old take the stage in Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet. This year marks the 29th annual production by The Columbus Ballet, and Board President Jennifer Hayes and Artistic Director Ben Redding say it’s not only about carrying on a tradition; it’s about reimagining it.

A Full-Circle Moment

For Redding, directing The Nutcracker in Columbus is deeply personal. “I was in it as a child,” he recalled. “Ballet taught me perseverance, how to stick with something when it’s really hard. I used to cry after class because it challenged me so much, but it shaped who I am. To come back and be the one steering the ship now, it’s incredibly meaningful.”

Hayes echoed that sentiment from the perspective of a parent and arts leader. “For many families in Columbus, The Nutcracker is their introduction to ballet. It certainly was for me. Now, to be on the board of The Columbus Ballet and see how it continues to bring joy — not just to the dancers, but to the community — is so exciting.”

This year, more than 90 dancers will take the stage, supported by live orchestra accompaniment and the Voices of the Valley choir. The result is a full-scale community production that blends professional artistry with hometown heart.

Balancing Tradition and Fresh Vision

Every holiday season, audiences expect the same magical scenes: the party at the Stahlbaum home, the battle between the soldiers and mice, the journey through the Land of Sweets. But as Redding explained, each artistic director has the challenge, as well as the privilege, of making the familiar feel new.

“There are non-negotiables in The Nutcracker,” he said. “Those beloved scenes are timeless. But my approach is rooted in story. I want even the person who’s never seen a ballet before, who thinks it might not be for them, to get swept up in the narrative. What makes the ballet accessible is connecting people through story.”

For Redding, that story is one of joy. “For the lead role of Clara, she is typically 11 to 14 years old. It’s a time of change, of growing up. In some versions of The Nutcracker, her dream is a nightmare. For me, it’s about joy and discovery. Clara chooses joy, and I think we all need that reminder right now.”

The Power of the RiverCenter

Much of that magic in The Columbus Ballet’s production is amplified by the RiverCenter, which Hayes describes as “a state-of-the-art theater that rivals major stages across the country.”

“I’ve seen Nutcracker productions in Canada and across the U.S.,” she said, “but our RiverCenter stage is amazing. We’re spoiled to have it right here in Columbus. For a child to step on that stage, with the lights and live music, it’s unforgettable.”

For Redding, the RiverCenter also carries personal significance. “I was actually inspired to join The Columbus Ballet after seeing 42nd Street at the RiverCenter. The spectacle of that show made me realize I needed to dance. And now, here I am, hopefully inspiring someone else.”

Art by Columbus artist Rich Godfrey.

Why Families Keep Coming Back

The holiday season is packed with traditions, but The Nutcracker remains one of the most enduring. Hayes sees why.

“There’s nostalgia — in the music, the story, the magic of the snow scene — that feels quintessentially tied to the holidays. But there’s also this sense of growth and achievement. For our dancers, a child might start as a mouse one year and, years later, be the Snow Queen. That journey, that dedication, is meaningful for the dancers and inspiring for families.”

Redding adds that the ballet’s progression mirrors that growth. “It starts with something simple, like the party scene with children, and builds to the technical brilliance of the Cavalier and Sugar Plum Fairy. By the end, it’s almost Olympic in its athleticism. People are captivated. You can hear a pin drop, then the whole theater erupts in applause.”

Behind the Scenes

What audiences don’t see is the immense volunteer effort that makes The Nutcracker possible. “The Columbus Ballet is a completely volunteer-led organization,” Hayes explained. “Parents, alumni, community members…it’s their dedication that brings the show to life. If anyone wants a deeper appreciation of what goes into it, volunteering is an amazing way to get involved.”

Redding agreed, noting that the collaborative spirit extends into rehearsals. “This is the first time I’ve gone into a technical process excited instead of dreading the stress. The care, the collaboration? It’s rare. Everyone lifts each other up.”

“Something Special”

Asked what he’s most excited for this year, Redding laughed. “I always sneak in little winks, moments that reflect real life. [Characters] will have their own personality, their own quirks. It’s about relationships, not just steps.”

Hayes, meanwhile, is eager to see the snow scene. “The costumes are gorgeous. With the snow falling, the lights, the music, it’s going to be breathtaking.”

For those who’ve never seen The Nutcracker, Redding has a simple message: “It’s easy to follow. You don’t need any prior knowledge to understand it. And by the end, between the story, the music, and the sheer artistry, you’ll be amazed.”

Hayes summed it up best: “The magic of The Nutcracker is that it belongs to everyone. It’s a tradition, yes, but it’s also fresh, joyful, and inspiring. Whether you’re on stage or in the audience, it’s something special to be part of.”

Get Tickets!

Tickets are now on sale for The Columbus Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, with performances on Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14, 2025. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.thecolumbusballet.org/tickets-events.