World's first immersive ballet announced

Will Tuckett is to stage the world's first immersive ballet.

Audiences will be able to explore the world of Tchaikovsky's Christmas ballet The Nutcracker first hand in an innovative new staging from the choreographer. Nutcracker will run in a 20,000 ft temporary structure in Wembley Park and will feature live musicians and a cast of over 40.

Dancer Adam Cooper, who created the role of the swan in Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake and starred in Singin' In The Rain will perform in the piece.

Families will be able to interact with the dancers and visit the sets within the show, including the toy factory and snow-filled forest. The piece will last 90 minutes and has musical arrangement from Andy Massey and set design from Colin Richmond. Woodroffe Bassett Design, the designers responsible for the London 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony, will be in charge of the lighting design.

Tuckett said: "This is a completely fresh approach to a classic ballet. We’re excited that our production will enable us to bring the world of the Nutcracker to the widest possible audience."

Cooper added: "The moment Will started talking about the show, I knew I wanted to be involved. Will is one of the most imaginative and exciting director-choreographers working today, and I’m in no doubt his Nutcracker will be a magical experience."

Tuckett won an Olivier Award for his 2014 production of The Wind in the Willows, which transferred from the Royal Opera House to the West End.

Nutcracker runs at Wembley Park from 30 November to 8 January.