Following a record-breaking run in Johannesburg, The Nutcracker comes to Cape Town in February 2026 for seven performances only.
The Mother City will finally have the chance to experience the mother of all ballets when the magic of Cape Ballet Africa’s The Nutcracker is performed at Artscape’s Opera House in February. Hot off the stage from its critically acclaimed Johannesburg run where this Tchaikovsky classic played to rapturous responses and sold-out houses.
Cape Ballet Africa’s The Nutcracker will be performed for a strictly limited season of seven performances, from 25 February to 1 March 2026. No extensions are possible.
The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra will accompany the performance live for selected performances.
- Bookings can be made at Webtickets
Against the musical backdrop of Tchaikovsky’s captivating score, this new production is created and performed by a 50-strong member company, featuring choreography and stage direction by internationally renowned Maina Gielgud. The sumptuous costumes are designed by Marcel Meyer with magnificent sets by Michael Mitchell.
Including classics such as Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Waltz of the Flowers and The Kingdom of Sweets and Delights, The Nutcracker remains a perennial favourite, to be enjoyed at any time of the year. It’s perfect entertainment for ballet aficionados and first-time theatre goers alike.
Comments about the production include:
- “brilliant costumes … dramatic lighting … beautiful throughout” – Bruce Dennill
- “dazzling costumes … spectacular dancing … every moment is a visual feast for the senses … the hottest show in town over the festive season” – Laura’s World
- “sublime … Go and watch. It will make you very happy” – Sam Says
- “visually stunning … world‑class dancing, rich sets, beautiful costumes, standout soloists and a strong ensemble” – Footnotes
This production is an initiative of Cape Ballet Africa and international producers Global Star Events.
“Join us to experience the enchanting world of the young Clara, who receives an intriguing Christmas gift and goes on a journey through mesmerising dream landscapes,” says Debbie Turner, artistic director and founder of Cape Ballet Africa. “We are delighted to be presenting this extraordinary production to Cape Town audiences for a strictly limited season. There’s no reason why it shouldn’t be enjoyed all year round! With no extension possible, don’t delay booking your tickets.”
CEO of Global Star Events, Simon Bryce added “Rivalling their international peers, Cape Ballet Africa is leading the renaissance of classical dance in South Africa with this wonderful family classic. Whether you are a seasoned ballet goer or first-time attendee, you will be enthralled, thrilled and amazed by the world class dancing, mind-blowing costumes and amazing set.”
The Nutcracker, presented by Cape Ballet Africa and Global Star Events will be performed at Artscape Opera House from 25 February to 1 March 2026.
Performance dates are:
- 25 and 27 February @ 20h00: performance accompanied by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra live
- 26 February @ 20h00: performance to recorded music from the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra
- 28 February @ 15h00: performance to recorded music from the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra
- 28 February @ 20h00: performance to recorded music from the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra
- 1 March @ 14h00: performance accompanied by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra live
- 1 March @ 18h00: performance accompanied by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra live
The show is recommended for all ages over five years.
Ticket prices range from R290 to R790.
- Book now at Webtickets
*Only valid tickets purchased from Webtickets, the exclusive ticketing agent, may be presented.
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Cape Ballet Africa’s The Nutcracker
Cape Ballet Africa
Website: capeballetafrica.com
Artscape
Website: https://www.artscape.co.za/
About Cape Ballet Africa:
Established by Debbie Turner, Cape Ballet Africa seeks to reimagine how ballet can look in Africa, instilling the discipline of classical ballet while blending in the exciting heritage of South African culture. The Company identity strongly aligns with the global dance landscape while building a proudly African organisation.
About Global Star Events:
Global Stars Events (Pty) Ltd is part of the Theatre Tours International Group, an industry leader in producing and promoting high-quality ballet, dance, and theatre in the UK, Ireland, Southeast Asia, Australasia and South Africa. While multi-disciplinary in approach, the company specialises in working with world class dance companies to take the imaginary and make it real on stage and invite audiences into a journey of wonder.
Cape Ballet Africa, Global Star Events and Artscape:
Both Cape Ballet Africa and Global Star Events acknowledge the support of Artscape Theatre Centre in presenting this wholly South African production in Artscape’s Opera House – the internationally recognised, most prestigious stage in the nation. Both organisations have independently enjoyed fruitful collaborations with Artscape – the nation’s landmark performing arts centre and look forward to continuing the association with Cape Ballet Africa’s The Nutcracker in 2026.