WHEN Clara’s mysterious aunt arrives at the family’s grand Christmas ball with a strange gift, she brings unexpected excitement to the festivities. Find out more when Taunton’s Brewhouse theatre presents The Nutcracker (Not the Ballet) this Christmas, from 2nd to 28th December.

Join Clara (Nell Baker) on this magical Christmas Eve when her Nutcracker doll springs to life and she is swept into a fantastical battle against the sinister Evil Rat Queen, whose darkness threatens to drain the magic from the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Can Clara unlock the courage and friendship needed to save her new friends?

With captivating live music inspired by traditional English folk melodies and echoes of Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, The Nutcracker is a spellbinding adventure celebrating bravery, family, and the true spirit of Christmas.

The talented cast also includes Tomas Baines, Elizabeth Marsh, Rhiannon Neads and Dan Wheeler with a 10-strong youth ensemble, which has been sponsored by Taunton School.

The creative team is led by director Sasha Wilson, with music by Callum Patrick Hughes, design by Tomasin Cuthbert, lighting by Charly Dunford, and Youth Ensemble direction by Sarah Shorten.