The Nutcracker and I

In this original approach to the classic ballet The Nutcracker, pianist Alexandra Dariescu intertwines her personal story with that of Clara, the young protagonist of the ballet, recounting her journey from girl to concert pianist. On stage, while she performs excerpts from Tchaikovsky's work, Dariescu is accompanied by dancer Désirée Ballantyne and exuberant digital animation. "Dariescu has created a charming multisensory world through her piano mastery", wrote Classical Source, breathing new life into a creation that promises to continue captivating new generations. Photography © Nigel Norrington