For a Night That’s Truly Nuts in the Best Way, The Nutcracker Delivers the Holiday Escape We All Need.

December 7th, 2025

When it comes to Christmas, a few traditions feel essential: the tree, gingerbread houses, mistletoes, and The Nutcracker. This year, The Kravis Center and Ballet Palm Beach brought their rendition of E.T.A. Hoffman’s timeless tale to life.

I had never experienced this ballet live before, so having Ballet Palm Beach host my first encounter made the night even more memorable. The set design and costumes were instantly captivating. From the richly detailed opening scene inside the family home to the striking look of the mice and their commanding king, every design choice showcased the care and artistry of the production team. The visuals seamlessly complemented the choreography, which consistently held the audience’s attention and deepened the storytelling.

Lily Loveland, who portrayed Marie, delivered a performance that stood out from her first step onstage. Paired with Matthew August as the Nutcracker Prince, the two elevated each other’s roles with chemistry and precision. Their partnership felt natural, fluid, and fully in sync. Each scene they shared earned enthusiastic applause from both children and adults—a testament to the impact they left.

With Christmas around the corner and the new year fast approaching, there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than experiencing this production. Whether you want to treat yourself, plan a date night, or enjoy an outing with the family, Ballet Palm Beach and The Kravis Center offer a performance that sets the perfect tone for the season.