Ballet dancer in a purple dress performs a split leap against a vibrant pink and red cityscape background.

Performers in colorful costumes dance energetically on stage, holding long ribbons overhead, with vibrant lighting and a dynamic backdrop enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Dancers in bright pink costumes perform on stage with a dramatic circular light backdrop, while a man stands in the center under spotlights.

A performer in colorful attire jumps midair with legs extended, while a woman in a white dress and a man in a suit watch on a brightly lit stage.

Carlos Acosta's

Nutcracker in Havana

Tue 3 - Wed 4 Feb 2026

Venue: Festival Theatre

Carlos Acosta’s brand-new production Nutcracker in Havana explodes onto the Festival Theatre stage, featuring new choreography by Carlos Acosta CBE performed by more than 20 dancers from his Cuban company, Acosta Danza.

A sun-kissed take on a festive classic

Set to an exuberant Cuban version of the magnificent Tchaikovsky score, the timeless story is brought to life with ballet at its core, enriched with Acosta Danza’s unique style and with Cuban dance traditions beautifully woven throughout the much-loved and joyful family tale.

For dance fans around the globe, Carlos Acosta is an international superstar of the classical ballet world. Born in Havana and trained at the National School of Ballet in Cuba, he went on to dance professionally with the world’s most prestigious companies, with London’s Royal Ballet becoming his home.

Having tackled huge titles throughout his career, from Carmen to Don Quixote, Nutcracker in Havana is an opportunity for Acosta to fuse this festive treat with a little Havana heat.

"A sun-kissed, salsa-based treat... radiating warmth and charm"
The Telegraph
★ ★ ★ ★

"Deserves to become a fixture on the UK Christmas list"
Financial Times
★ ★ ★ ★

"A breath of fresh air"
The Guardian
★ ★ ★ ★

Ballet dancers in pink costumes perform on stage with bright lights and seated performers in the background.

Two ballet dancers perform a lift on stage, while a seated woman and two others in pink costumes watch in the background under theatrical lighting.

A ballet dancer leaps mid-air on stage while others, including people in costumes and formal wear, watch in the background.

A theatrical performance with dancers and actors in formal costumes posing dramatically on a decorated stage with a Christmas tree in the background.

Three ballet dancers pose on stage in colorful costumes; one wears a yellow dress, one is shirtless with red-patterned pants, and another wears blue and gold, with a suited figure standing behind them.

A ballet dancer in a gold costume performs a grand jeté on stage, with bright theater lights and a colorful background behind her.

Ballet dancers in red costumes perform on a stage with dramatic lighting and a circular art deco backdrop, surrounded by glittering curtains.

A group of performers dance energetically on stage, holding colorful ribbons with vibrant lighting and a dynamic background.

A ballerina in a pink tutu performs an arabesque on stage, with colorful lights and a seated figure in the background.

A group of performers on stage act out a lively scene; one person lifts a large metal canister while others react expressively, with a forest backdrop behind them.

Three actors perform on stage; one leaps mid-air with arms and legs extended, while the other two stand in front of a throne-like chair under dramatic lighting.

Performance details

Show times: Evenings; 7.30pm; Matinee; 2.30pm
Running time: 1 hour 35 minutes, including interval
Age suitability: 8+

Discounts

Friends 20% off – Read more about the Friends discount

Concessions £3 off.

Accessibility information

Audio described performance Tue 3 February, 7.30pm Wed 4 February, 2.30pm Wed 4 February, 7.30pm
Touch tours Begins 90 minutes before the Audio Described performance listed above.