Most full productions of The Nutcracker ballet last about 2 hours including an intermission.
Typical duration
Most major ballet companies schedule The Nutcracker for roughly 2 hours to 2 hours 20 minutes, which usually includes one intermission between the two acts. Without intermission and extended applause, the core choreography and music are closer to about 90 minutes.
Examples from companies
- Some companies list a run time of about 2 hours with one intermission.
- Others note more specific timings, such as around 2 hours 3 minutes or about 2 hours 20 minutes including intermission.
What to expect as an audience member
If you have tickets to a specific production, plan to be at the theater for around 2 to 2.5 hours from curtain up to final bow. Exact length can vary slightly depending on choreography, pacing, and length of the intermission at that particular company.