The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester City Ballet will present The Nutcracker at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, NY, from November 25 to November 29, 2026. Secure your tickets now for this enchanting performance.
The Nutcracker is the world's most performed ballet, a two-act Christmas classic with music composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreography originally by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov. Premiering in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1892, the story follows young Clara who receives a nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve, which comes to life and battles the Mouse King before taking her on a magical journey to the Kingdom of Sweets. This beloved production is performed by ballet companies worldwide every holiday season, accounting for nearly half of many ballet companies' annual revenues.
This year, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra & Rochester City Ballet will present The Nutcracker at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre from November 25 to November 29, 2026. The performance will feature highlights from both acts, including the iconic "Waltz of the Snowflakes" and "Grand Pas de Deux." Audiences can expect a positive live performance vibe, as this production has become a cherished annual tradition for families in Rochester.
As part of the holiday season performances, this production showcases local dancers alongside professional company dancers, making each rendition unique. The event will also feature opening acts from both the Rochester City Ballet and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, enhancing the overall experience.
Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and elegant architecture, making it an ideal venue for classical performances such as The Nutcracker. The seating arrangement includes various sections that cater to different preferences and budgets. The best sections are typically located in the center orchestra area, providing an unobstructed view of the stage and an immersive experience of the performance.
However, seats located further back in the balcony may not offer the same level of engagement with the performance. For those seeking a balance between price and view, side orchestra seats can be a reasonable option while still allowing for a good perspective of the stage.
Parking options near Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre include several convenient locations:
The best parking option is the Eastman School of Music Parking Garage, located just a short walk from the venue. It offers ample space and reasonable pricing at $10 per event. Visitors should avoid parking in areas with strict time limits or residential zones to prevent potential fines.
Prices currently start around $40 for select seating options and can go up to $150 for premium seats during this highly anticipated performance of The Nutcracker. Given its popularity and significance as a holiday tradition in Rochester, securing tickets early is advisable.
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