Premiere of The Nutcracker ballet at the National Opera and Ballet Theater, conducted by Sergio Alapont

December 23rd, the National Theater of Opera and Ballet in Tirana hosted the highly anticipated premiere of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker ballet, a performance that attracted exceptional interest. Tickets for the six-night run sold out in record time, reflecting the excitement surrounding this magical production.

The Nutcracker is one of the most iconic works of the Christmas season, and its premiere at the National Opera and Ballet Theater marks a significant moment in Tirana’s cultural calendar. The ballet, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, tells the magical tale of a young girl who befriends a Nutcracker soldier, who transforms into a magical being and battles the evil Mouse King. The ballet’s famous music, including the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” uses the celesta—an instrument Tchaikovsky discovered in France—as well as toy instruments to create the festive mood.

The production will feature performances by the ballet corps, soloists, and chorus, under the choreography of Edi Blloshmi, as well as the symphonic orchestra of the National Opera and Ballet Theater, conducted by Sergio Alapont. The costumes, designed by Edlira Qyshka, promise to add to the magical atmosphere.

The ballet, renowned for its timeless music and festive atmosphere, will be conducted by Sergio Alapont, one of the most distinguished conductors of his generation. Alapont has led some of the world’s most prestigious opera theaters, including Teatro Real in Madrid, Opéra-Théâtre de l’Eurométropole de Metz, Opéra National du Rhin, and the Glyndebourne Festival. He has also made a successful debut in the United States, conducting La Rondine at Minnesota Opera.

Alapont’s extensive repertoire spans both opera and symphonic works. He has collaborated with major orchestras such as the London Philharmonic Orchestra, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Orchestre National d’Ile-de-France, and Arena di Verona. His conducting career has brought him into contact with some of the biggest names in the opera world, including Plácido Domingo, Gregory Kunde, and Anna Pirozzi. His recordings have been released by prestigious labels like Universal Music, Signum Classics, and RAI. In 2016, Alapont was awarded the “Best Conductor” title at the GBOSCAR – L’Eccellenza dell’Opera for his outstanding performance of Aida at the Teatro di Sassari.

Blendi Gonxhja, the Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, emphasized the importance of this production in bringing the “magic of Christmas” to the stage, enhancing the festive spirit in Tirana. He encouraged the public to experience the wonder of the holidays through this timeless performance.

This new production in Tirana continues the tradition of staging the Christmas ballet, which has become an integral part of the city’s holiday celebrations, bringing joy and wonder to audiences every year.