The Hip Hop Nutcracker

The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a family-friendly holiday production that reimagines the classic Nutcracker story through hip-hop dance, Tchaikovsky’s music, contemporary New York-inspired visuals, and a vibrant live performance. Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince embark on a dream adventure involving a gang of mice, the Land of Sweets, and lessons about love, community, and the spirit of the holiday season.

Directed and choreographed by Tony- and Olivier Award-nominated Jennifer Weber, the production features platinum-selling rapper Da Brat as host and MC, along with a DJ, a violinist, and a dozen all-star dancers. Digital graffiti and other visual effects transform the story’s traditional 19th-century German setting into a diverse, modern cityscape.

When: November 17–22, 2026

Showtimes: The page lists an accessible performance with audio description on November 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Additional showtimes are presented through the venue’s date-selection schedule, but specific times are not included in the page text.

Run time: Two hours, including a 20-minute intermission.

Tickets: Price not available.

Age recommendation: Appropriate for all ages.

Lineup: Da Brat, host and MC; a DJ; a violinist; and a company of approximately 12 all-star dancers featuring freestyles by the company.

Creative team: Jennifer Weber, director and choreographer; Mike Fitelson, adapter; based on *The Nutcracker* by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Accessible performance: The November 22 performance at 2:00 p.m. includes audio description.

Group tickets: Group ticket inquiries are available through the venue.

Venue: The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20004.

Venue information: The National is near dining, parking, and major Washington, D.C., landmarks. Participating restaurants offer Broadway-themed pre-theater menus with special pricing.