THE most famous of fantasy ballets, The Nutcracker, is set to entertain a Malvern audience, with a live performance by the Russian State Ballet of Siberia.

The plot is set on Christmas Eve, "as snowflakes fall outside and the warm glow of the open fire sends flickering shadows across the boughs of the Christmas tree and all the presents beneath".

A spokesman said: "When midnight strikes we are swept away to a fairy-tale world where nothing is quite as it seems, toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse-king and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and we travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins."

The live performance will include live music from the Orchestra of the Russian State Ballet.

Anatoly Tchepurnoi, music director and chief conductor said: "It is always a pleasure to bring the unique traditions of Russian Ballet to British audiences.

"Touring across the UK with a full company of dancers as well as highly skilled musicians is always exciting, for me, it is very special to have the power of a symphony orchestra bringing the choreography to life on stage.’

Formed in 1981, the Russian State Ballet of Siberia has quickly established itself as one of Russia’s leading ballet companies and has built an international reputation for delivering performances of quality and depth.

The spokesman added: "The soloists and corps de ballet are superb, and never fail to delight audiences with their breathtaking physical ability and dazzling costumes."

The date for the diary is February 12, at 2.30pm and 5.30pm.

Tickets on 01684 892277.