The Nutcracker returns to the Royal Opera House with its tale of a magician with secrets, an enchanted gift, a guiding angel and a journey to the Kingdom of Sweets.

The seasonal favourite The Nutcracker draws on all the imagination and fantasy of ETA Hoffmann’s story of Christmas Eve, when young Clara creeps downstairs for one of her presents, but finds herself instead at the start of a night of magical adventures.

The designs for this Royal Ballet production re-create a 19th century image of Christmas, including the decorated tree that magically grows and the toy soldiers that come to life to fight the Mouse King.

The Nutcracker is classical ballet at its most approachable and visually entrancing, with something for everyone to enjoy, from the youngest in the family to the oldest.

Find out more about the rich variety of West End shows on offer in Theatreland.