The Nutcracker Ballet Birthday Party

Maybe the fact that I began my 17 years of practicing ballet at the age of three has something to do with my fascination with attending The Nutcracker Ballet this time of year! I thought what a marvelous theme for a young girl's Nutcracker Ballet Birthday Party in late November and throughout December!

The nick-name "Sugar Plum Fairy" is held dear to my heart. I love the grandiose set with the falling snow, the enormous Christmas tree, the loud chimes of the clock, the gorgeous costumes...there is something truly spectacular about The Nutcracker Ballet.

I think attending The Nutcracker to celebrate a birthday is a lovely idea. Of course the principal dancer (or birthday girl, in this case) should have a passion for the theater, acting, dancing and the stage herself!

Starting with the invitation: How about a beautiful box containing a beautiful Nutcracker sent to each guest, along with a beautiful note containing the details tied to the nutcracker with a big double-faced satin bow? What a presentation, not to mention a real tie into the story of the ballet, when Clara gets her Nutcracker! Let the magic begin! I can't think of a much more exciting way to announce this very special Nutcracker Birthday Celebration!

How fun to bundle up under cozy blankets with her dearest friends and kindred spirits, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Boston Common (Central Park--whatever may be nearest you!) while sipping hot chocolate with whipped cream and sprinkles or maybe some pink marshmallows (safety spill-proof lids on, and mildly warm temperature tested by mom first of course!) adoring all the sparkling lights. To nibble? Precious Nutcracker cookies, of course!

Then when cheeks get rosy, the carriage drops everyone off at the front steps of the theater. While walking in between the red velvet ropes, the birthday girl and guests,dressed in beautiful dresses inspired by the ballet, classic black patent leather ballet flats, gorgeous camel car coats, leggings and of course satin bow headbands, can enjoy the swoosh of their skirts and clicking of their shoes on the marble mezzanine floor.

After entering the gorgeous theater, gazing at the brilliant architecture that only adds more ambiance, the lights dim, the curtain goes up, and the ballet begins! Whether it is the giant Christmas tree, the fighting mice, the snow scenes, candied costumes or the finale, the ballet is certain to entertain their minds during the performance, and dreams after!

When the curtain has closed, everyone bundles up into the carriage awaiting them, and is handed a beautiful round box tied up with a big bow. Inside? a miniature version of my favorite pink ruffle birthday cake, or maybe a ballet-inspired cupcake or set of cookies or petit fours. A sweet ending to a perfect party.

Birthday gift ideas? Our own couture tutus, of course! I adore the scarlet red velvet trimmed ivory tulle tutu with the large bow this time of year! Of course a beautiful sparkling brooch, a first pair of ballet slippers, a gift of ballet classes, maybe even some chocolate ballet slippers or beautiful stationery to write those thank you notes with, would all be lovely treats for the birthday girl.