Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker has firmly established itself as a cherished Vancouver holiday tradition. With more than 200 dancers on stage, this production is both a grand showcase of talent and a heartfelt celebration of community, bringing together performers of all ages in a visually rich and emotionally warm evening of ballet.
At the centre of the story is Clara, beautifully portrayed by Irene Cheliubeeva. Charming and expressive, Cheliubeeva carried the role with confidence and grace, anchoring the narrative while allowing her natural stage presence to shine. Her performance suggests a bright future ahead, and she was a joy to watch throughout the evening.
One of the production’s most endearing features is the inclusion of the youngest members of the Goh Ballet family. There is something undeniably special about seeing the five- and six-year-olds take the stage; each appearance was met with delighted oohs and aahs from the audience, adding an extra layer of warmth and authenticity to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the night came in Act I with the breathtaking pas de deux between the Snow King and Snow Queen, danced by guest artists Tan Jinze and Wang Yiren of the National Ballet of China. Their partnership was elegant, powerful, and exquisitely musical, creating a snow scene that was truly magical to behold.
Act II transported the audience to the Land of Sweets, a visual delight filled with colour, texture, and playful energy. Tan Jinze and Wang Yiren returned as Coffee, offering a pas de deux that was distinctly different in tone from their snow scene—grounded, expressive, and equally captivating. The most anticipated dance of the evening, the grand pas de deux between the Sugar Plum Fairy (Maude Sabourin) and her Cavalier Prince (Felixovich Morante), lived up to expectations. Poised, lyrical, and technically assured, it was a fitting centrepiece to the act.
Based on the classic story inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann, Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker follows Clara on a dreamlike journey that begins at a festive holiday party and unfolds into an enchanted world. After her beloved nutcracker transforms into a prince, Clara travels through a sparkling snow kingdom and onward to the Land of Sweets, where she is treated to a series of celebratory dances before returning home, forever changed by the magic of the night.
With its blend of professional excellence, youthful enthusiasm, and timeless storytelling, Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker continues to enchant audiences of all ages. It is a wonderful Vancouver holiday tradition—one that audiences can only hope will continue to delight for many years to come.
Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker runs from December 18–21, 2025 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
