This Christmas season, Ballet Ireland will be treating audiences to a special production of Nutcracker Sweeties – offering an unmissable opportunity to experience world-class ballet at 10 regional venues, as well as five performances at Dublin’s storied Gaiety Theatre.

For anyone who thinks ballet is not for them, we dare you to see Nutcracker Sweeties. In fact, we double dare you.

Delicate, elegant and mesmerising, ballet’s origins are rooted in the courts of the Italian Renaissance - an aristocratic association which has been pegged to the art form ever since; however, Ballet Ireland is fun, exciting, and surprising.

Nutcracker Sweeties is a fast-paced, magical Christmas adventure told through exceptional music and dance.

Whether you treat ballet like a fancy dress ball or a casual night out, ballet has become more affordable, inclusive and accessible than ever on these shores thanks to Ballet Ireland. Established in 1998, the company has toured throughout the island each spring and autumn both to large scale theatres in Dublin and venues nationwide, presenting traditional and new ballets which resonate with modern audiences.

More recently, they’ve been focusing on developing new, contemporary work, attracting a diverse crop of highly-skilled, classically trained dancers who take an active role in the creative process. The international mix of artists, languages, and cultures not only highlights Ballet Ireland's draw, but also the universality of ballet storytelling.

Look no further than Nutcracker Sweeties. This fresh, modern take on the Tchaikovsky classic stands as testament to what the human body can achieve, both physically and artistically. It’s as engaging as any live sport, the only difference being that excitement is guaranteed.

The magical journey follows Ciara and Fionn, who embark on a Christmas Eve adventure in a famous Dublin department store amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday shoppers.

As the pair wander from their parents, they are whisked away into a world of enchantment by the Nutcracker. Surrounded by a glorious blizzard of snowflakes, they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy, who leads them into the kingdom of sweets, where the beautiful Christmas windows come to life before their eyes.

Choreographed by Morgann Runacre-Temple, this exciting production of the festive classic performed by a cast of world-class dancers will appeal to audiences of all ages with its fairy-tale magic, beautiful costumes and a re-imagined Tchaikovsky score. A tale of wondrous adventure that combines to form one of the most delectable Christmas confections imaginable.

A perfect date or a family treat, tickets for the five performances taking at the Gaiety Theatre from 13-16 November start from €13.50 and are available from gaiteytheatre.ie.

For full infomration all the Nutcracker Sweeties shows taking place from November 2 until 14 December at 11 venues across Ireland, visit www.balletireland.ie. 

• Watch the promo video below: