Jersey City Nutcracker

Since 2010, Nimbus Dance has drawn together professional dancers, youth of all backgrounds, and local celebrities to present Jersey City Nutcracker. The adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic takes place in Jersey City and weaves together themes of magic, adventure, family, and friendship, and featuring the sights, sounds, and characters you might find throughout Jersey City neighborhoods. Jersey City Nutcracker plays like a love letter to Nimbus’ hometown; a statement of commitment and of perseverance from Nimbus to local families and youth of the community.

Choreographed by Samuel Pott, with fantastical, animated scenic projections by Jersey City-based video artists, Laia Cabrerra and Isabelle Duverger, and a delightful libretto co-written by Alyssa Souder and Pott. This story takes on new magic!

Expect wholesome (albeit, a little wacky!) holiday fun with some interactive moments throughout the evening. Whether you are a Jersey City Nutcracker devotee or if this will be your first experience, it promises entertainment that the whole family will enjoy.

With a youth cast of over 100 student performers, Jersey City Nutcracker brings together the community to create and perform this family-friendly and professional series of performances.

If you are a blooming performer or a teen looking to expand and grow with more challenging opportunities, there is a role for you!

Role Descriptions

Cookies (Age 4-5, Level I)
Always the cutest part of the Jersey City Nutcracker, the Cookies dance in the Second Act. Cookies are the children of Mama Cannoli and come out from underneath her enormous skirt to perform a high-spirited and energetic dance of their own. Cookies also join the entire cast onstage during the finale.

Liberty Angels (Age 6-8, Level II)
Usher our story’s protagonists into a more beautiful Jersey City under the watchful eye of the Statue of Liberty. This section offers more complex choreography and musical dancing to the Nutcracker’s beautiful Tchaikovsky score.

Rats & Bullies/B-Boys & B-Girls (Ages 7-18, Level III-V)
Engage in the ultimate battle between good and evil! Perform contemporary and hip-hop choreography as the Nutcracker and the Rat King battle it out.

Maria & Christina (Ages 9-13)

Maria and Christina are the youth lead characters in Jersey City Nutcracker, they take us on a magical journey through their Jersey City neighborhoods and beyond! They meet exciting characters, see unforgettable sights and just might find a magical Nutcracker along the way.

Audition to be considered for the role of Maria or Christina in the 2024 Jersey City Nutcracker on Saturday August 24th from 6:00-7:00p