The Nutcracker
- Date: Dec 5 - Dec 28, 2025
- Venue: Benedum Center
Pittsburgh’s Favorite Holiday Tradition!
Set in turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh, Terrence S. Orr’s dazzling version of The Nutcracker highlights the city’s beloved landmarks, sports teams and history. Join Marie and the Nutcracker Prince on an unforgettable adventure through sparkling snow into the dreamy Land of Enchantment. Experience favorite dances, memorable scenes, magical costumes, shimmering snowflakes and the iconic Tchaikovsky score as you are swept into the most festive time of the year. Don’t miss your chance to experience it with your loved ones!
Concept and Choreography: Terrence S. Orr | Music: P.I. Tchaikovsky
Artists: Magnoly Batista, Hannah Carter, Erin Casale, Madison Russo | Photography: Justin Merriman
Sensory-Friendly performance sponsored by:
Performance Times
Friday, December 5, 2025 – 11:00 AM – Student Matinee
Friday, December 5, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 6, 2025 – 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 6, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 7, 2025 – 12:00 PM
Sunday, December 7, 2025 – 4:30 PM – Sensory-Friendly Performance
Friday, December 12, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 13, 2025 – 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 13, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 14, 2025 – 12:00 PM
Sunday, December 14, 2025 – 4:30 PM
Friday, December 19, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 20, 2025- 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 20, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 21, 2025 – 12:00 PM
Sunday, December 21, 2025 – 4:30 PM
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Friday, December 26, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 27, 2025 – 2:00 PM
Saturday, December 27, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 28, 2025 – 12:00 PM
Theater Programs
Join us at the theater!
Come early or stay late to hear from artists involved in the production. Programs are free and reservations are not required, except where noted.
Saturday, Dec. 6 | Family Workshop | 12:45 p.m.
It’s always easier for kids to appreciate and understand a performance and the art form with a bit of preparation! Join us for a story time, dancing and a chance to see Nutcracker costumes and props up close! Multi-purpose Room, 2nd floor. Reserve your spot here!
Saturday, Dec. 6 | Tea with the A.D. | 6:15 p.m
Grab your tea – or your favorite drink – at the bar and join Artistic Director Adam W. McKinney for an informal conversation before the performance. Central lounge area, Liberty Lounge, 2nd floor.
Saturday, Dec. 6 | Artist Q&A | after the 7 p.m. performance
Meet and chat with your favorite artists! In the theater.
Friday, Dec. 12 | Artist Q&A |after the 7 p.m. performance
Meet and chat with your favorite artists! In the theater.
Sunday, Dec. 14 | Ballet Workshop for Scouts | 10:30 a.m.
Bring your troop to a performance of The Nutcracker and kick it off with a pre-show ballet class at the Benedum Center! No dance experience is required for this fun, beginners’ workshop. Appropriate for girl scouts and boy scouts. Multi-purpose Room, 2nd floor. Click here for more information!
Saturday, Dec. 20 | Family Workshop | 12:45 p.m.
It’s always easier for kids to appreciate and understand a performance and the art form with a bit of preparation! Join us for a story time, dancing and a chance to see Nutcracker costumes and props up close! Multi-purpose Room, 2nd floor. Reserve your spot here!