The Hard Nut is Mark Morris’s irreverent, much-loved take on the Nutcracker, set in a 1970s suburban living room and designed in the style of comic artist Charles Burns, with the full Tchaikovsky score. It has returned to the Brooklyn Academy of Music in December in recent seasons (2025: Dec 11–21).
2026 dates are typically announced in the fall; dates below are from the most recent season unless noted.
Quick Facts
| Where | BAM Howard Gilman Opera House, 30 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn |
|---|---|
| Best for | Teens and adults |
| Subway | 2/3/4/5/B/D/N/Q/R to Atlantic Av–Barclays Ctr |
The snowflake scene, with dancers of every gender in tutus throwing snow, is a highlight. For a traditional version, see NYC Ballet.
About Mark Morris and The Hard Nut
Choreographer Mark Morris created The Hard Nut in 1991. It keeps Tchaikovsky’s complete score but moves the story to a swinging 1970s house party, with designs inspired by comic artist Charles Burns. The result is funny, irreverent and surprisingly moving, and it has become a December tradition for many New Yorkers who have seen the classic version many times.
What Makes It Different
- A comic-book visual style, with bold black-and-white sets.
- Gender-bending casting, including the famous Snow scene.
- Live orchestra playing the full score.
- Plenty of adult humor alongside the holiday spirit.
About BAM
The Brooklyn Academy of Music, founded in 1861, is one of the country’s leading performing arts centers. Its Howard Gilman Opera House is a grand historic theater in Fort Greene, surrounded by restaurants and bars for dinner before the show.
Compare Every Nutcracker
See all productions, dates and tips in our Nutcracker in NYC guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Hard Nut good for kids?
It is best for teens and adults; it’s playful but has adult humor.
