New York Theatre Ballet’s The Nutcracker, choreographed by Keith Michael and set in an Art Nouveau world around 1907, runs about one hour, making it an ideal first ballet. In recent seasons it has been performed free at Brookfield Place in late November (2025: Nov 22–23).
2026 dates are typically announced in the fall; dates below are from the most recent season unless noted.
Quick Facts
| Length | About 1 hour |
|---|---|
| Where (recent seasons) | Brookfield Place, Lower Manhattan |
| Cost | Free at Brookfield Place performances |
| Best for | Ages 3+ |
See Luminaries in the Winter Garden while you’re there.
About New York Theatre Ballet
New York Theatre Ballet is a chamber ballet company known for its abridged, family-friendly productions of classic ballets. Its one-hour Nutcracker keeps all the familiar highlights—the party, the battle, the snow and the Land of Sweets—in a compact production designed for young audiences.
The Nutcracker Story
On Christmas Eve, young Clara (called Marie in some productions) receives a nutcracker from her mysterious godfather, Drosselmeyer. At midnight the toys come to life, the Nutcracker leads toy soldiers against the Mouse King, and he becomes a prince who takes her through a snowy forest to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy welcomes them with dances from around the world. Tchaikovsky’s score, first performed in St. Petersburg in 1892, includes some of the most recognizable music in classical ballet, from the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” to the “Waltz of the Flowers.”
Why It’s a Perfect First Ballet
- One hour is the right length for young children.
- Free performances (when offered at Brookfield Place) let families try ballet with no commitment.
- The intimate setting means kids can see the dancers clearly.
Compare Every Nutcracker
See all productions, dates and tips in our Nutcracker in NYC guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free Nutcracker in NYC?
New York Theatre Ballet has performed its one-hour Nutcracker for free at Brookfield Place in late November.
