Costumes

The costumes in The Nutcracker are elaborate and vibrant, bringing the enchanting characters and magical settings to life with rich details and vivid colors. From the elegant attire of the party guests to the whimsical outfits of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the colorful garb of the international dancers, the costumes play a crucial role in creating the ballet’s festive and fantastical atmosphere.

The costume shop keeps detailed binders with sketches and fabrics for each costume.

Accolades

When Artistic Director Adam Sklute updated sets and costumes in 2017, he wanted a more authentic representation of the time of e.t.a Hoffmann’s publishing of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King in 1816. Director of Costume Production David Heuvel’s designs reflect this wish and are sumptuous costumes that mirror the Regency era.

Heuvel received Governor Gary Herbert’s prestigious Artist Award for Visual Arts after his extensive 2017 redesign. For five decades now, Ballet West has been grateful for Heuvel, who has designed and built costumes around the globe. At Ballet West, he has truly made the artists shine. “If they touch the stage feeling comfortable and regal, I have done my job,” said Heuvel.