Lo Schiaccianoci - Balletto di Roma

The stage of the Teatro Olimpico hosts Lo Shiaccianoci (The Nutcracker), the classic Christmas ballet danced to the notes of the Russian composer Pyotr Il'ič Tchaikovsky, in a contemporary reinterpretation by Massimiliano Volpini, a choreographer from La Scala who boasts collaborations with the most prominent international artists, including Roberto Bolle for whom he has choreographed the ballets performed on stages all over the world and in his television programmes since 2000.

Volpini's dynamic and innovative choreography reworks Dumas' beloved fairy tale from the new point of view of the contrast between reality and imagination to reveal the implications and consequences of today's society in its many facets.

In the role of the Sugarplum Fairy, the delightful Carola Puddu dances in the presence of urban dance acts curated by Kevin Castillo, with street artists performing illusionist numbers and circus acrobatics. Costumes and sets are by Erika Carretta.

In the leading roles: Giulia Strambini (Clara), Paolo Barbonaglia/Nicola Barbarossa (The Fugitive), Marcello Giovani (Drosselmeyer), Francesco Moro/Nicola Barbarossa (Fritz) and Alessio Di Traglia (The Mouse King).              

In the first act, the rich and festive Stahlbaum House is replaced by an imaginary metropolitan suburb inhabited by homeless people, separated from the city centre by an imposing wall. Santa Claus is a mysterious neighbourhood benefactor, and the Nutcracker, his most anticipated gift, is the hero who has overcome the barriers of poverty and can now enjoy the wonders of wealth.

The second act evokes more traditional world dances and bizarre characters. The scene - of bricks, cracks, and graffiti - suddenly changes into an enchanted place out of time. Thanks to the combination of reality and dream, we can reflect on the earthly aspects of a multifaceted contemporary society.

The programme may undergo changes

Photo: Balletto di Roma