Richmond Ballet’s Nutcracker is dazzling, entertaining, AND affordable!

We look forward to this show every year, but especially this year with new scenery, revitalized costumes AND a new dance! Here are some of the highlights for us:

Photo credit: Richmond Ballet

-The audible “WOW” from our girls when the “Snake” flawlessly slid off the “Charmer’s” back

-The glittering snow falling in the “Enchanted Snow Forest”

-The ADORABLE little lambs prancing after their Shepherdess

-The Mouse King’s dance moves and obviously the cheese catapult

Photo credit: Richmond Ballet

Here are my tips for the show:

-In the days leading up to the show, read The Nutcracker with your child, so they can follow along with the Richmond Ballet show. (We LOVE The Story Orchestra version because it actually plays songs from each scene).

-The show runs through December 23rd. Tickets range from $25-$130. There are discounts for full-time college students and for groups of 10 or more.

-Parking is easy and convenient in the lot at 609 East Grace St. It is SO close to the Dominion Energy Center! We arrived about 40 minutes before the show and there were still lots of spaces available. Alternatively, there are two parking decks within 2-3 blocks of Dominion Energy Center.

-Be sure to check out the Richmond Symphony warming up (before the show starts or before ACT II). Our girls especially loved watching the musicians practice and identifying all the instruments.

-I always like aisle seats with kids, because you don’t have to crawl over people if they need the restroom, snack, or a quick exit. Our seats were L 1 -7.There are booster seats available. We didn’t need them for our girls (8 & 9), but they are on your left when you enter the building by the “Concierge” sign.

-The show is 2 hours and that includes the 20 minute intermission.

-Concessions are available before the show and during intermission. Eating is permitted in the theater.

Photo credit: Richmond Ballet

-There are lots of nutcrackers, ornaments, and souvenirs to remember your special experience. They’re sold before/after the show and during intermission.

-Family-friendly dining options nearby: Secret Sandwich Society and The Village Cafe.

As always, you know your kids best. My daughter saw her first Richmond Ballet Nutcracker when she was 5, but yesterday I saw plenty of younger children and they were doing very well. Just consider: How long can my kiddo sit? Are your kids able to be quiet for the entire show? Will I be ok if we need to leave early?

Tickets for the performance start at $25. Students are eligible for discount tickets. You may purchase tickets online, or call the box office: 804.344.0906 x224.

If you prefer not to drive into the city, there are several Nutcracker performances around Richmond.

— By Lindsay Garrison

Lindsay Garrison loves Richmond and is proud to raise her own family here. As a teacher for 12 years, she learned how

Lindsay Garrison, your RVA on the Cheap editor

to save, budget and stretch every penny. Additionally, she led groups of students to Europe annually, and took great pride in planning affordable, fun-filled trips. She transferred those skills to her daily life and shares them with readers of RVA on the Cheap. Lindsay utilizes RVA on the Cheap to make enriching life experiences accessible to all. Check her instagram: rva.familyfun for more affordable family adventures!

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