New English Ballet Theatre Brings A New Nutcracker To Nassau

PHOTO CREDIT: New English Ballet Theatre This December, New English Ballet Theatre from the United Kingdom will bring a new version of The Nutcracker to Nassau. The company will perform at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Ballroom Stage on December 12 and 13, marking their first appearance in The Bahamas. The production offers a clear and modern take on the well known holiday story and brings together international stars and Bahamian artists in a way that feels fresh and welcoming.

This Nutcracker begins at a modern Christmas party, then moves into snowy scenes and even a world of pirates. Associate Choreographer Valentino Zucchetti created this version and gives the story a clear and bold style. The costumes are contemporary and the choreography is fast and detailed. Clara’s journey is reimagined in a way that celebrates curiosity, joy, and the feeling of the season.

The cast includes Liudmila Konovalova from the Vienna State Opera, Valentino Zucchetti of The Royal Ballet, and Bahamian-American dancer Nicholas Rose. Nicholas has danced with Dance Theatre of Harlem and the National Ballet of Canada. He returns to Nassau to perform a leading role and to work with young Bahamian dancers. He says this visit feels personal. He grew up hearing stories about his family in The Bahamas and says that sharing this production at home feels like a moment of connection.

NEBT plans to do more than perform on stage. Nicholas is working with Courtney Celeste Fox, a respected Bahamian ballerina who also serves as Cultural Ambassador for The Bahamas. Together they will lead masterclasses and offer educational sessions that focus on technique, discipline, and confidence. Courtney has joined NEBT’s development team to help bring dance programs to schools across New Providence. Their partnership strengthens the link between the company and the Bahamian dance community.

While the company is in Nassau, students will have access to free workshops and open masterclasses. Some students will have the chance to perform with the NEBT dancers. The goal is to give young people direct exposure to world class ballet training and to inspire them to continue their artistic growth.

NEBT Founder and Artistic Director Karen Pilkington Miksa says the company is proud to share this production in The Bahamas. She believes the music, the story, and the presence of Nicholas Rose will make the performances meaningful for audiences. She also hopes this visit will help build a new holiday tradition in the country.