Dominic Walsh's Storybook Nutcracker

Dominic Walsh's Storybook Nutcracker comes to Keller Auditorium on Wednesday, December 23, as part of Oregon Ballet Theatre's 2026-2027 season. It's a shorter, playful reimagining of the holiday classic, tailored specifically for young children and the neurodiverse community.

On stage is OBT2, Oregon Ballet Theatre's second company, performing choreography by OBT2 Director Dominic Walsh. The production keeps Tchaikovsky's music at its center but pairs it with heartwarming, easy-to-follow narration, making the story accessible for kids who might find a full-length ballet a bit much. The whole thing is sensory-friendly, with modified sound and lighting and a relaxed atmosphere where all ages are welcome.

If you're bringing little ones or someone who gets overwhelmed in a theater, that relaxed environment is the main thing to know. It's not a "sit still and be quiet" kind of show, so it's a good way to introduce younger kids to ballet without the pressure of a traditional performance. The shorter length helps too—it's a condensed version of the story rather than the full three-act production.

Doors open at 9:30 AM at Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St in downtown Portland. Reserved seating applies, and tickets are available by subscription now, with single tickets to be sold later.