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Top 10 Chicagoland Nutcrackers — Pointe Magazine

Beyond the Nutcracker — Tickets & Festival

Chicago’s uplifting holiday tradition returns—now in its 11th year. Enchanting story, Christkindl-style festival, and select performances with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra live.

Why Families Love It

Now in its eleventh season, Beyond the Nutcracker brings Tchaikovsky’s iconic music to a heartwarming story set in 1940s England. Created by Artistic Director Julianna Rubio Slager, the ballet follows Emma and her Uncle Abrahms on a journey that reveals the deeper meaning of Christmas.

  • New this year: select performances feature the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra live.
  • Festival extras: Christkindl-style market with vendors, photo booths, sweet treats, and a visit from Santa.

Pointe Magazine named Beyond the Nutcracker one of the Top 10 Nutcrackers to see in Chicagoland.

Trailer

Audience Voices

“It was an even more memorable experience the second time… a beautiful, heartwarming production.” — 2024 Audience Member
“The show is so beautifully done and well choreographed. I felt so uplifted at the end.” — 2021 Audience Member
Beyond the Nutcracker stage photo

Performance Schedule — Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center

19900 S Harlem Ave, Frankfort, IL 60423

Weekend One Recorded Score

Sat, Dec 6, 2025 — 2:00 PMBuy Tickets
Sat, Dec 6, 2025 — 7:00 PMBuy Tickets
Sun, Dec 7, 2025 — 3:00 PMBuy Tickets

Weekend Two Live Orchestra — Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

Sat, Dec 13, 2025 — 2:00 PMBuy Tickets
Sat, Dec 13, 2025 — 7:00 PMBuy Tickets
Sun, Dec 14, 2025 — 3:00 PMBuy Tickets

Choosing between weekends? The Dec 13–14 performances include a full live orchestra for an unforgettable sound.

Christkindl‑Style Festival

Hours: Opens 1 hour prior to each performance and closes 60 minutes after each performance.

Vendors

Shop local makers and holiday gifts before and after the show.

Photo Booths

Capture the magic with themed backdrops the whole family will love.

Sweet Treats

Warm, festive goodies to make your outing extra cozy.

Santa Visits

Say hello to the big guy—perfect for the littles (and the nostalgic).

Sensory‑Friendly Christmas Tea flier

Sensory‑Friendly Performance & Christmas Tea — Nov 15

Date: Saturday, Nov 15, 2025 — 10:30 AM & 1:30 PM

Location: Ballet 5:8 Studios — 11545 183rd Pl, Ste 101, Orland Park, IL 60467

What to Expect

  • 30‑minute sensory‑friendly performance by Ballet 5:8 Studio Company & Ensemble
  • Meet the characters at a Christmas tea
  • Holiday treats included

Designed for Comfort

  • House lights slightly raised; moderated sound
  • Flexible seating; freedom to move, vocalize, or take breaks
  • Quiet space available; comfort items welcome; earplugs available
  • Early entry by request

Group & School Offers

Groups of 10+ adults: Save $5 each with code B58Group at checkout.

Schools & Homeschool Co‑ops: Special pricing available. Call 708‑329‑8773 or email info@ballet58.org.

School Day Performances

  • Thu, Dec 4, 2025 — 10:00–11:00 AM
  • Fri, Dec 5, 2025 — 10:00–11:00 AM
  • Thu, Dec 11, 2025 — 10:00–11:00 AM
  • Fri, Dec 12, 2025 — 7:00 PM (Open Dress Rehearsal with Orchestra; student groups welcome)

Transportation underwriting and ticket assistance available for qualifying schools.