The holiday season is synonymous with many cherished traditions, and for dance lovers, none are quite as magical as The Nutcracker. Having spent a decade immersed in the world of ballet, performing in countless productions of this festive classic, I feel uniquely positioned to offer a definitive ranking of every dance in The Nutcracker. Join me on a journey through the Land of Sweets as we explore each number, from the unforgettable to the less enchanting, in this iconic ballet. Prepare for some passionate opinions on these beloved Nutcracker dances!
20. Toy Soldiers: A March to Forget
Bringing up the rear is the Toy Soldiers dance, which, in my opinion, is disappointingly dull. Despite choreographic efforts, the ‘soldier’ concept feels limiting and uninspired. Let’s not even mention the hats – a constant struggle to keep in place! The music itself is unremarkable, failing to elevate the routine. Having been cast in this number multiple times, my fellow soldiers and I shared a collective sense of boredom. Compared to the dynamism of other sections within the battle scene, the Toy Soldiers dance simply falls flat as one of the least engaging Nutcracker dances.
19. Chinese Tea: Uncomfortable Undertones
Unfortunately, The Nutcracker isn’t without its problematic elements, and the Chinese Tea dance highlights some deeply uncomfortable racial undertones. The music itself feels jarring and culturally insensitive, a sentiment often mirrored in the choreography and costuming choices in many productions. Furthermore, its brevity prevents any meaningful impact, especially when juxtaposed with other dances of similar length that are far more memorable. It’s short, and definitely not sweet, making it one of the more controversial Nutcracker dances.
18. Angels: Heavenly Boredom
Having endured the Angels dance for several consecutive years as a child, I confess to harboring a long-standing dislike for this number. It’s frankly, quite boring. The choreography is typically uninspired, and the music loops repetitively, inducing a state of near-sleep. The majority of the dance involves young dancers walking in various linear formations, which struggles to maintain audience attention. While the Sugar Plum Fairy makes a brief appearance, the Angels dance largely feels like filler in the overall Nutcracker dance lineup.
17. The Magic Castle in the Land of Sweets: Plot Device Dance
The Magic Castle number serves primarily as a narrative bridge within the Land of Sweets. Its function is story-driven rather than performance-centric, resulting in a lack of significant “wow” factor. Studio interpretations vary widely, but the scene generally focuses on Prince Charming recounting the events of Act I. While narratively important, it doesn’t stand out as a particularly memorable Nutcracker dance in its own right.
16. Party Scene Toy Soldier: Formulaic Solo
This solo goes by various names, sometimes referred to as the Male Doll. My studio opted for the Toy Soldier interpretation, hence the title here. Regardless of the name, this number has never truly captivated me. It can be fun for the dancer portraying a boy in the party scene, but the music is merely adequate, and the choreography often leans towards the predictable and formulaic. It’s a decent inclusion in the party scene, but not a standout Nutcracker dance.
15. Tarantella: Lost in the Pas de Deux Shadow
Our studio omitted the Tarantella, so my personal experience with it is limited. Its placement in the program, immediately following the emotionally charged pas de deux, is its primary downfall. Inevitably, it feels anticlimactic and somewhat inferior in comparison. Intended as a lighthearted number to follow a deeply moving piece, the Tarantella simply doesn’t resonate as strongly as other Nutcracker dances.
14. The Party Scene: A Mixed Bag of Festive Moments
Ranking the entirety of the Party Scene is challenging as it encompasses numerous smaller dances, each with slight variations across productions. However, certain moments consistently stand out. Drosselmeyer’s dramatic entrance, underscored by riveting music, is always a highlight. The poignant connection between Clara and Drosselmeyer’s nephew is another beautiful and touching moment. From a dancer’s perspective, the children’s roles are generally engaging (though as a boy initially, I was less thrilled, later appreciating the greater activity compared to the girls’ parts). The parental dances, however, often feel somewhat tacked on and can drag during rehearsals. When executed well, the Party Scene is captivating; when it falters, it can become tedious. The Doll solos are ranked separately due to their distinct solo performance nature within the larger Party Scene context as individual Nutcracker dances.
13. A Pine Forest in Winter: Beautiful Score, Anxious Memories
The Pine Forest scene never quite resonated with me. Rehearsals often felt longer than the actual performance, which is telling. In retrospect, I appreciate the beauty of the score, which is undeniably lovely. Perhaps my less-than-fond feelings stem from its association with my annual pre-Snow scene panic attack. However, the musical quality does elevate this number beyond some of the lower-ranked Nutcracker dances.
12. Doll: Simple Charm
The Doll dance is undeniably cute, and its charm is its primary appeal. The costumes are typically adorable, and it’s a genuinely fun number to perform. However, beyond its inherent sweetness, it lacks the depth and complexity of other, more memorable Nutcracker dances.
11. Russian: Overrated Icon?
This might be a controversial opinion, given the Russian dance’s iconic status, but I find it somewhat overrated. Interpretations usually fall into two categories: the candy cane variation or a more traditional Russian folk dance rendition. There seems to be limited room for creative innovation within these established concepts. The inherent rigidity of the number’s traditional portrayal can become repetitive. To any choreographers reading this: please, explore choreography beyond children jumping through hoops or stereotypical, Americanized Russian folk dance! And let’s be honest, the music is overplayed. This is my personal truth about this Nutcracker dance.
10. Mice/Mouse King/Battle Scene: Chaotic Fun (Minus the Soldiers)
Technically, grouping the Mice, Mouse King, and Battle Scene together is a bit of a cheat, as they constitute a whole segment. However, given the low ranking of the Soldiers dance, separating them highlights the stark contrast in quality. The Mice are fantastic, and I still regret never having the chance to portray one. The entire scene, excluding the soldiers, is exceptionally well-crafted. The music is phenomenal (especially the Mouse King’s entrance!), and the mice’s exaggerated reactions to the Mouse King’s demise are iconic. Clara’s shoe-throwing moment is undeniably heroic. When performed effectively, the Battle Scene is a joy to watch – the Soldiers section notwithstanding in these Nutcracker dances.
9. Spanish: Lead Dancer Spotlight
I have a soft spot for the Spanish dance, having performed as the lead for several years. From personal experience, it’s significantly more enjoyable in the lead role. Being part of the ensemble as a male dancer was considerably less engaging. The costumes are often visually striking and beautiful, enhancing the number’s appeal. Furthermore, the Spanish score is consistently underrated in my opinion. Give it a dedicated listen; it’s truly captivating. A concise yet thoroughly enjoyable Nutcracker dance.
8. Mother Ginger and the Polichinelles: Crowd-Pleasing Cuteness
Mother Ginger and the Polichinelles is undeniably a crowd favorite, largely due to the iconic Mother Ginger character. Beyond her theatrical presence, the Polichinelles (or “pollies” as my studio called them) offer an undeniably adorable and energetic romp. It’s deceptively challenging, given its fast tempo and the young age of most performers. The post-performance joy radiating from the children, proud of their accomplishment, was always a highlight. And the music? Absolutely infectious. It’s a beloved Nutcracker dance for very good reason.
7. Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy: Underrated Stamina
Confession time: I also find the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy slightly overrated, yet it would be wrong to rank it lower. Any dancer who undertakes this solo deserves immense respect. The sheer technical demand is staggering. I never aspired to be the Sugar Plum Fairy, simply observing the incredible effort required. When executed flawlessly, the costuming and the dancer’s stamina make this number a true showstopper. While it may appear effortless, witnessing weeks of rehearsal reveals the immense dedication required to perfect every nuance. To any dancers who have performed this solo: consider this my official acknowledgment of your exceptional talent and perseverance in this iconic Nutcracker dance.
6. Marzipan (Dance of the Reed Flutes): Intricate and Impressive
Also known as the Dance of the Reed Flutes, Marzipan was a number I inexplicably never performed, yet always coveted. The choreography is intensely intricate and precise, a true spectacle of group dance. While impressive as a large ensemble piece, it’s particularly breathtaking when performed as a trio. The sustained balance and control required on pointe for the dancers in Marzipan is truly astounding. The musical shift to a more intense, foreboding tone before returning to the light and airy melody is one of my favorite musical moments in the entire Nutcracker score. Decades later, I still recall my studio’s choreography, even practicing it in my own living room. Clearly, I still harbor some regret at missing out on this captivating Nutcracker dance!
5. Finale: Poignant Closure
The Finale holds a deeply personal significance for me. Witnessing each dancer’s specific musical cues and entrances, followed by the collective joy of dancing in unison, and the final poignant moment of Clara’s departure home, has consistently evoked strong emotions, regardless of how many times I performed it. Something about this scene has resonated with me deeply and enduringly. It’s both poignant and beautiful, encapsulating the emotional core of the Nutcracker ballet.
4. Waltz of the Flowers: Elegant Endurance Test
The Waltz of the Flowers is undeniably beautiful, with elegant costumes and consistent audience adoration. However, it is also incredibly demanding and lengthy. Countless rehearsal hours were dedicated to perfecting formations, as its seemingly effortless grace belies intense precision, especially with a large cast. My favorite segment is the grand finale with its triumphant music, and the brief respite during Dew Drop’s solo, which provides a welcome pause and a chance to admire the soloist’s skill in this iconic Nutcracker dance.
3. Arabian Coffee: Haunting Mystique
I simply adore the Arabian Coffee dance, primarily due to its truly exceptional music. It possesses a haunting yet melodic quality that defies simple description without experiencing it. In short: the atmosphere is captivating. This was another backstage favorite to watch. The audience becomes so engrossed in the performance that you could hear a pin drop. It’s consistently a hit with families, including my own who diligently attended every performance I was in. My high school’s rendition of Arabian was particularly magical. However, the elephant in the room is the aforementioned racial undertones. This number is almost invariably performed by white dancers, and the choreography is heavily Westernized. The impact would be amplified immeasurably if performed by Arab dancers showcasing authentic Arabian folk dance in this Nutcracker dance.
2. Waltz of the Snowflakes: Rewarding Challenge
My relationship with the Waltz of the Snowflakes is complex. For a significant period, I couldn’t listen to the music due to its strong association with dread and anxiety, a testament to the dance’s immense difficulty. As mentioned earlier, pre-show panic attacks were a near-annual occurrence before the Snow scene. Outside of the Sugar Plum Fairy’s variations, this is arguably the most technically challenging piece in the entire Nutcracker. The music’s tempo and dynamics shift seemingly at random, the timing is incredibly intricate, and the spacing is notoriously difficult. And the frenetic middle section feels like a dance for survival. The number is intended to evoke a snowstorm, so its intensity is fitting. Yet, when the “snow clears,” the music softens, and Clara and the Prince enter, it’s truly dreamlike. The falling snow from above is the perfect finishing touch. The conclusion of the Snow scene consistently moved me to tears, and still does simply listening to the music. The Waltz of the Snowflakes is undeniably grueling to perform, but also potentially the most rewarding Nutcracker dance for both dancers and audience alike.
1. Pas de Deux: Undisputed Masterpiece
For anyone even remotely familiar with The Nutcracker, the Act II Pas de Deux claiming the top spot will come as no surprise. What can be said about this iconic piece that hasn’t already been articulated countless times? Let’s begin with the music. A compelling argument can be made that it is among the most beautiful compositions ever created. Its emotional journey remains captivating even after countless listens. It evolves from quiet romance to urgent pleading, then into apprehension and terror, culminating in an explosion of pure, unadulterated joy. It concludes with blissful violins and a triumphant final cadence. If you have somehow never experienced the Pas de Deux music, please do yourself an immense favor and listen to it immediately. And the choreography! The Prince lifting the Sugar Plum Fairy at the music’s climax, then gently lowering her as the music softens! The Sugar Plum Fairy’s turns perfectly synchronized with the fluttering music in the middle section! The initial gestures of connection between the dancers! And the final attitude en pointe? Simply breathtaking! The Pas de Deux transcends verbal description, even with my earnest attempt here. It exemplifies how music and dance can surpass spoken language, tapping into something profoundly raw and inherently human. It is, unequivocally, a masterpiece of Nutcracker dances.
And there you have it – my definitive ranking! This was a nostalgic and enjoyable process, and I hope my opinions haven’t sparked too much controversy. If you’ve never experienced The Nutcracker, numerous filmed versions are available on platforms like YouTube, offering a more accessible alternative to often expensive live performances. I hold deep affection for this ballet and the memories, both positive and challenging, associated with it. While the Toy Soldiers may forever remain at the bottom of my list, I sincerely hope The Nutcracker continues to enchant audiences for centuries to come as a timeless holiday tradition featuring these unforgettable Nutcracker dances.
Written by Grace Bradley
Photography by Alec Conwell
CD/PM: Jazzi Almestica
PA: Lucy Anderson
Styling and Design: Catalina Torres
Talent: Callie Okun, Kalia Bar, Orlando Rodriguez
