“THE NUTCRACKER AND I” by Alexandra Dariescu

Classical meets digital in a show that redefines tradition! World-renowned pianist Alexandra Dariescu brings to the Nicosia International Festival 2025 her trailblazing performance The Nutcracker and I – an electrifying fusion of solo piano, dance, and digital animation that has already captivated over 70,000 people worldwide.
 
On December 28, 2025, the Nicosia Municipal Theatre (16:00 και 17:30) will transform into a magical stage where storytelling unfolds through music, movement, and stunning visuals. This immersive multimedia show appeals to audiences of all ages, making it perfect for anyone seeking an inspiring and imaginative experience. Dariescu's mission is to reach younger audiences and build bridges for those not yet familiar with classical music.
 
Premiered in 2017 at London's Barbican Centre, “The Nutcracker and I” has since toured major venues across Europe, Australia, China, the UAE, and the United States. In January 2025, it was met with critical acclaim at the Megaron-  Athens Concert Hall as part of the Piano Days series.
 
The performance features excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s original score in arrangements by Mikhail Pletnev, Stefan Esipoff, Percy Grainger, and three newly commissioned works by Gavin Sutherland.
 
Live on stage, real and virtual worlds blend seamlessly with the presence of dancer Désirée Ballantyne as young Clara.
 
The story
 
It all begins on Christmas Eve, when young Clara receives a nutcracker soldier as a gift – one that unlocks a magical world where toys come to life, and a battle unfolds against an army of mice. So begins a journey of wonder, fantasy, dance, and glorious music. As the Nutcracker transforms into a prince, Clara is swept into a dreamlike adventure of discovery and imagination.
 
About Alexandra Dariescu
 
Romanian-born pianist and storyteller Alexandra Dariescu brings classical music into the modern age with technology and bold, live performances. With a powerful message of inclusion and accessibility, she inspires young people to fall in love with music and challenges outdated stereotypes.
 
Dariescu has released nine critically acclaimed albums and earned a long list of accolades: Cultural Ambassador of Romania, Officer of the Romanian Crown from the Royal Family, Young European Leader by Friends of Europe, and the Order of Cultural Merit in the rank of Knight from the Romanian President. Since September 2024, she has been a professor of piano at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.
 
Credits
 
Piano: Alexandra Dariescu
Performer: Désirée Ballantyne 
 
Duration: 60΄
Age group: Suitable for all ages
 
Tickets:
Available online via more.com: http://bit.ly/4grNxB8 and the Nicosia Municipal Theatre box office (Monday - Friday 10:00-13:00).
 
Ticket prices:
 
VIP: €16 - €18
ΖΩΝΗ Α: €14/ €16
ΖΩΝΗ Β: €12/ €14
ΖΩΝΗ C: €10/ €12
ΖΩΝΗ D: €8/ €10
 
Reduced tickets are valid for: Children, students, soldiers, pensioners, large families, unemployed, actors, people with disabilities (free) with presentation of relevant ID.
 
Information: 22797979 (Monday - Friday 10:00-13:00)
& http://bit.ly/3VjZ0ZG
 
Festival identity
Organisers: Nicosia Municipality, Nicosia For Art
Festival sponsors: OPAP Cyprus, ALTIA, more.com, Cyprus Public Transport
Supporters: Travelhouse, UCLan Cyprus, WINECORE, Gate Twenty Two Boutique Hotel, Classic Hotel Nicosia
Media sponsors: DIAS Publishing & SIGMA TV, LOVE FM 100.7, and “KATHIMERINH” newspaper