Moodcracker showed up for the ballet, not mandatory holiday cheer. The costumes are festive, the dolls are behaving suspiciously, and she appears to be reconsidering every decision that placed her in the middle of this production.

The piece gives a beloved Christmas tradition a wonderfully unimpressed little twist. Theatrical, whimsical, and full of attitude, it is perfect for anyone who enjoys the season but reserves the right to have a mood about it.