The Nutcracker
José Mateo Ballet Theatre presents its 38th annual production of *The Nutcracker* at The Strand Theatre in Dorchester. The production runs across multiple performances from December 5 through December 20, 2026. Casting is announced on the company’s website and social media approximately one week before each performance and may change because of injury or illness.
The performance lasts approximately two hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Audience members are asked to arrive early, silence their phones, and refrain from photography, video, and recording during the performance.
When: December 5–20, 2026
Showtimes: Specific performance times are not listed on the page. The lobby opens one hour before each show, and late seating is not permitted after 15 minutes into the performance.
Tickets: Price not available
Discounts: EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders can receive $5 tickets, with up to two tickets available per cardholder. Contact nutcracker@ballettheatre.org for details.
Purchasing: Tickets should be purchased through José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s official Nutcracker link on Showclix. Tickets bought from unauthorized third-party sellers will not be accepted.
Ticket policies: All sales are final. Exchanges to a different performance must be requested and completed within one week of the original purchase. Exchanges for different seats may require payment of the price difference, and promotional pricing may not transfer unless the exchange occurs during the same promotion period.
Box office: Tickets are available at the theatre on the day of the performance. The box office opens one hour before showtime and accepts cash and credit cards. Advance online purchase is strongly recommended for the best seat selection.
Ticket delivery: Online purchasers receive a confirmation email with tickets attached as a PDF. Tickets may be printed or displayed on a personal device for scanning; screenshots are recommended for faster entry. There is no will-call service.
Run time: Approximately two hours, including a 15-minute intermission.
Venue: The Strand Theatre, 543 Columbia Road, Boston, MA 02125
Arrival: Guests should plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before curtain. The lobby closes 20 minutes after the performance ends.
Parking: Street parking is available but may fill quickly. Additional options include Municipal Lot #019 on Hamlet Street and the South Bay Parking Garage.
Accessibility: Wheelchair and accessible seating are available, and the theatre has an ADA-accessible elevator. Contact the theatre in advance for specific accommodations or to purchase accessible seats.
Casting: The dancers performing in each show are posted on José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s website and social media within a week of the performance. Casting is subject to change.
Refreshments and merchandise: José Mateo Ballet Theatre merchandise is sold before the performance, during intermission, and afterward. Refreshments are available at the theatre’s cash-only bar.
Dress code: There is no dress code.
Theatre policies: Photography, videography, and all other recording are prohibited inside the theatre during the performance. Audience members are asked to remain quiet and respectful, silence their phones, and minimize conversation.