Over many decades, countless hearts have been warmed by the music of Tchaikovsky around Christmas time. The holiday somehow always leads us back to the 'dear old' traditions of the past - like decorating the Christmas tree and the innumerable minute steps of preparing for the family celebration, not to mention the stories and melodies that await us like old friends each year. The story of The Nutcracker is one of Christmas anticipation and, first and foremost, faith and hope in goodness. In the same way that the Nutcracker teaches Marie, the fairy tale's protagonist, what precious treasures happiness and love are, Tchaikovsky teaches us, the listeners, the same thing. The Hungarian National Philharmonic's new Nutcracker production, with fabulous dancing by Ballet Pécs and sand pictures from Ferenc Cakó that transport one into a dreamland, is intended as a Christmas gift for its audience. We have a warm welcome in store for all of our guests: come and feel the holiday spirit together with us!

Presented by: Hungarian National Philharmonic