Nicosia is set to be captivated by a groundbreaking fusion of classical music, dance, and cutting-edge digital artistry as world-renowned pianist Alexandra Dariescu brings her acclaimed multimedia spectacle, "The Nutcracker and I," to the Nicosia International Festival. Scheduled for December 28, 2025, with two performances at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre, this innovative production promises to reimagine Tchaikovsky's beloved festive classic for a contemporary audience, offering a unique narrative that champions ambition and perseverance.
Alexandra Dariescu, a Romanian-born virtuoso and a distinguished professor at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, has garnered international acclaim for her ability to weave compelling stories through her piano performances. Her rendition of "The Nutcracker and I" transcends a traditional ballet, presenting a deeply personal interpretation where the protagonist, Clara, is not merely a spectator but an aspiring concert pianist. This autobiographical undertone, a hallmark of Dariescu's creative vision, imbues the familiar tale with a fresh resonance, exploring the aspirations and challenges faced by young artists.
The spectacle masterfully orchestrates a tripartite synergy between Dariescu's solo piano mastery, the graceful movements of ballerina Désirée Ballantyne performing as Clara, and the enchanting hand-drawn digital animations crafted by Yeast Culture. These animated visuals, projected onto a transparent gauze screen, dynamically interact with both the pianist and the dancer, creating an immersive and visually arresting experience. The score itself features thoughtfully arranged excerpts from Tchaikovsky's iconic ballet, meticulously curated to complement the unfolding narrative. The entire production, lasting a concise 60 minutes, has been lauded for its accessibility and suitability for audiences of all ages, having already enchanted over 75,000 individuals across its global tour.
The decision to feature "The Nutcracker and I" at the Nicosia International Festival underscores the event's commitment to showcasing productions that push artistic boundaries and foster engagement with classical music, particularly among younger demographics. Dariescu's work is intrinsically linked to a broader mission of challenging conventional perceptions within the music industry and advocating for greater inclusion. By presenting Clara's journey through the lens of musical ambition, the performance aims to inspire hope and resilience in children, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
Since its premiere at London’s Barbican Centre in 2017, "The Nutcracker and I" has embarked on an extensive international journey, gracing stages in Europe, China, Australia, and the United States. Dariescu, who has been based in London since establishing her professorial role at the Guildhall School in September 2024, continues to champion this production as a vital bridge between the established repertoire of classical music and the evolving tastes of modern audiences. The Nicosia Municipal Theatre is poised to become the latest venue to host this captivating spectacle, offering a limited number of performances on December 28th at 10:30 and 16:30. Tickets are currently available for purchase online through more.com and directly from the Nicosia Municipal Theatre box office, with concessions available for students, soldiers, pensioners, and other eligible groups, ensuring broader access to this extraordinary artistic event.