IT WOULDN'T be Christmas without a trip to the theatre to see a production of the classic ballet The Nutcracker.

This year the Russian State Ballet and Opera House will bring this timeless classic production to The Anvil on November 25.

Based on the book, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the story tells the tale of a little girl whose godfather gives her a nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve, when the magic begins.

Directed and choreographed by former Bolshoi Ballet soloist, Konstantin Uralsky, the audience will see toys come alive, the Mouse-king and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins.

The show is being produced by Alexej Ignatow, of Amande Concerts Ltd, who has co-ordinated the UK tour.

Ignatow said: “We are constantly on the lookout for new challenges, to ensure that our opera and ballet audiences get a chance to experience a wide spectrum of various classic pieces.

“With extensive national tours that get our productions seen the length and breadth of the country, we are able to offer national audiences in various theatres an unforgettable experience at a fraction of the price, all without sacrificing quality.

“So, it is very close to our heart to continue working with theatres all over the UK to deliver top quality productions every year and make new converts wherever we go.”

The Russian State Ballet and Opera House is a gem for the Russian cultural traditions, bringing as they do the passion and vibrancy of Russian character to this well-known ballet.

It has built an international reputation for delivering performances of outstanding quality, and never fails to delight audiences.

With the companies dedication to stay true to the original production, with a Russian twist, the ballet remains a truly captivating piece of theatre, a wonderful introduction to ballet for anyone who has never experienced it, and retains its appeal for anyone who is familiar with it.

For more information and tickets for the show visit anvilarts.org.uk.