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Editor's Note: There are few things as magical and exciting as The Nutcracker, and the Croatian National Theater in Zagreb is one of the most beloved venues for this performance. One of the most beautiful works of classical ballet art leads its fans through the Christmas world of opulence, colors, joy, imagination, princes, and fairies. When I say experiencing this ballet performance at the Croatian National Theater is filled with emotions, I mean it, from excitement and tears to that magical Christmas warmth seen in movies. This year was even more special, and I am delighted that I attended the performance on the 30th anniversary of the artistic work of the National Ballet Champion Tomislav Petranović. The national champion of the Ballet of the Croatian National Theater in Zagreb, Tomislav Petranović, celebrated the 30th anniversary of his artistic work on Wednesday, December 21. He completed thirty years of a successful career with the performance of the Prince in the ballet The Nutcracker by P.I. Tchaikovsky, choreographed by Vladimir Malakhov, which premiered on November 29, 2019. Tomislav Petranović belongs to a small group of Croatian dancers of the middle generation who achieved a large part of their brilliant careers on some of the world's most famous ballet stages. Congrats to Tomislav Petranović from the Luxury Living Team!
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The Origin of an Enchanting Christmas Ballet – The Nutcracker
It's not Christmas without The Nutcracker! Every year, Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb (HNK) brings this timeless ballet classic to life and gives people the opportunity of traveling to the enchanting world of the Nutcracker, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the notorious Mouse King and witness the genuinely unforgettable show of this iconic Christmas story. Croatian National Theatre offers the ultimate festive entertainment with exquisite sets, gorgeous costumes, and world-class ballet dancers accompanied by an excellent orchestra.
One of the most beautiful pieces of classical ballet art, inspired by the novel 'The Nutcracker and the king of Mice' by E.T. Amadeus Hoffman, has been performing on stages for almost 130 years. The ballet that melts hearts and brings Christmas warmth by the great Russian composer Tchaikovsky was first performed in 1892 in St. Petersburg. It was choreographed by Marius Petipa, one of the most renowned choreographers of all time. Although it was declared a failure at the time, its genuine value and the musical genius of the piece became evident with time. The ballet leads its audience through the magical Christmas world of opulence, colors, princes and fairies, and unavoidable sweets. The leading role is played by the little girl Klara and her unusual Christmas gift – The Nutcracker. According to German folklore, Nutcrackers were given to families and friends to bring them luck and keep evil spirits and danger away. However, what is unusual about Clara's Nutcracker is that he comes to life at midnight. And then the Christmas magic happens, and little Clara and her Nutcracker Prince go on a fantastical adventure into an enchanting winter wonderland
Croatian National Theatre (HNK) – The Nutcracker 29th November -5th January
Croatian National Theatre brings this timeless piece to life in the early 20s of the last century, and since 1970 it has become a permanent repertoire of the national ballet stage. However, the ballet piece retains its old charm by including Tchaikovsky's magnificent music and elements of Petipa's equally superb choreography.
This year's Nutcracker was choreographed and directed by world-renowned Ukrainian ballet artist Vladimir Malakhov. Malakhov is considered one of the century's best dancers because of his highly lyrical dance style and perfect dance technique. He is the winner of numerous prestigious international professional awards. The conductors of this beautiful ballet fairy tale in Zagreb are Dian Tchobanov and Josip Šego, and the costume designer and set designer is Jordi Roig. Of course, the Nutcracker would not be complete without its world-class ballet dancers, who will tell you this beautiful ballet Christmas story filled with emotions in the most beautiful way - through dance. The Nutcracker is an iconic ballet classic that you must see at least once in a lifetime. The Nutcracker will be on the Croatian National Theatre repertoire from 29th November till 5th January 2023. Check out the Croatian National Theatre website for all the information and where to buy tickets. Happy Holidays!
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