The Nutcracker by BalletMet at Ohio Theatre

About this adventure

A cherished Central Ohio holiday tradition for over four decades, BalletMet's lavish production of The Nutcracker enchants audiences inside the historic, opulent Ohio Theatre in downtown Columbus. Choreographed with elegance and humor, the performance brings E.T.A. Hoffmann's classic story to life with more than 150 student and professional dancers, dazzling hand-painted stage sets, and Tchaikovsky's unforgettable score played live by the Columbus Symphony. Children are captivated by the growing Christmas tree that reaches towards the ceiling, the fierce Battle between the Mouse King and the Nutcracker Prince, the swirling Waltz of the Snowflakes, and the wondrous Kingdom of the Sweets. Young theatergoers can dress up in holiday finery and take photos with cast members in the gilded theater lobby. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Strollers can be checked complimentary with the theater coat check in the main lobby; elevators access all theater levels. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Spacious, private family restrooms and plush lounge seating located on the lower loge and basement levels. • Age Suitability: Recommended for ages 4 and up; two-hour runtime with a 20-minute intermission keeps younger attention spans engaged. • Sensory Tips: Dramatic theatrical lighting and soft stage smoke effects; booster seats and loaner sound-dampening earmuffs available upon request from ushers.