“The Nutcracker”: Maestro Yorgos Ziavras Leads Greek National Opera Orchestra in a Spectacular Rendition of Tchaikovsky's Timeless Masterpiece

Valeria Isaeva / GNO

ATHENS, GREECE - Internationally acclaimed Greek-German opera conductor Yorgos Ziavras, returns to the podium of the Greek National Opera for a spectacular revival of Tchaikovsky's  “Nutcracker”  directed by renowned Greek National Opera (GNO) Ballet Director Konstantinos Rigos. Running exclusively for nine can't-miss performances from December 23, 2023 through January 14, 2024.

Renowned for his artistry and profound musical insight, Yorgos Ziavras brings his extraordinary talent to the helm of this iconic ballet. His return to the GNO podium promises an enchanting rendition of Tchaikovsky's beloved score, bringing depth, emotion and flair to the performance.

Celebrated as a cornerstone of the ballet repertoire, The Nutcracker continues to captivate audiences around the world with its timeless storytelling and emotional musical dynamics. Under Ziavras' masterful baton, audiences can expect an immersive experience that delves into the heart of Tchaikovsky's evocative composition.

The collaboration between Ziavras and acclaimed director Konstantinos Rigos promises a fresh perspective on this beloved classic. Rigos' visionary direction promises a captivating presentation that will resonate with audiences of all ages, breathing new life into the beloved story of Marie-Clara and her magical Christmas Eve journey.

In this GNO rendition of The Nutcracker, under the musical direction of Yorgos Ziavras, director Konstantinos Rigos presents a poignant perspective, portraying the play through the eyes of marginalised children forced to create their own dreams in a world scarred by adults. Marie-Clara's imaginative odyssey unfolds in a glass vitrine, where a miniature plastic Christmas tree becomes a metaphor for the stark, fabricated reality she perceives on her screen.

The Nutcracker story, with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's legendary and deeply emotional music, manages to remain relevant to this day. Yorgos Ziavras unique musical direction, promises a new and creative look at the classic work, which balances between a contemporary aesthetic and the tradition of ballet.

"It is always a challenge for the conductor to approach this direction interpretatively and to bring out all the aspects of the story that are inextricably linked to Tchaikovsky's psyche and Hoffmann's tale," says Ziavras

The GNO's revival of The Nutcracker is a celebration of music, dance and the enduring magic of the holiday season. Audiences can expect a stunning performance that blends artistry, tradition and the timeless appeal of Tchaikovsky's enchanting score. 

In recent years, the Greek National Opera has achieved a great expansion of its reach. It has risen to the forefront of cultural excellence, not only in Southern Europe, but on a global scale. This has been achieved through an astute strategy - a fusion of artistic collaborations with prestigious opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera and Opera Comique, among others.

Greek National Opera & Production Lead Donor 

Stavros Niarchos Foundation

Learn more at: The Nutcracker - Greek National Opera