Free ballet performance

If you’re in Mexico City this December, make sure to visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes and witness a free ballet performance of El Cascanueces (The Nutcracker). This annual holiday tradition will feature 200 young ballerinas from the Puntos de Innovación, Libertad, Arte, Educación y Saberes (PILARES) program, showcasing their incredible talent and dedication to the art of dance.
A festive community celebration
Originally scheduled for Sunday, December 15, the performance has been rescheduled to Friday, December 20, with the third call set to begin promptly at 8:00 AM. While the show is free, you’ll need to wake up early to secure the best spot, as the event is expected to draw a large crowd. We recommend arriving in advance to get a good view of the stage.
This special performance will present a community-based version of El Cascanueces, a classic ballet piece that celebrates the holiday season. The show highlights the hard work and talent of the young dancers from various PILARES centers throughout Mexico City, where free classical dance workshops are held. These workshops give children and young adults the opportunity to learn and develop their skills in a creative and supportive environment.
A community-focused cultural event
The event’s goal is to foster inclusion and provide the public with an opportunity to experience classical dance, regardless of background or experience. In addition to the dazzling ballet performance, the event will feature live music from the Orquesta Opus 88, also part of PILARES. This talented group, led by the renowned conductor Rockdrigo González, will provide an unforgettable musical backdrop to the performance, creating a truly magical experience for the entire family and community.
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is one of the most iconic venues in Mexico City, serving as the main hub for dance and theater performances. On this special day, its expansive forecourt will be transformed into an open-air venue where the dedication of the PILARES dance instructors and promoters will be on full display. This event serves as a shining example of the city’s commitment to promoting the arts and making them accessible to the general public.
A beautiful venue for a beautiful performance
The outdoor space at the Palacio de Bellas Artes is the perfect setting for this community-driven performance. The natural light and grand backdrop of the building create a unique atmosphere that enhances the magical experience of El Cascanueces. Whether you’re a fan of classical ballet or new to the art form, this is an event that promises to captivate and inspire. Watching the young dancers, many of whom are participating for the first time, will give you a sense of pride in the efforts made by local communities to nurture creativity and artistic expression.
More than just a performance: a season of festivities
While El Cascanueces is the centerpiece of the festivities, it is far from the only event being hosted by the PILARES community this holiday season. In addition to the free ballet performance, there will be a variety of concerts, workshops, and additional dance performances. These activities are designed to bring people together to celebrate the season in a creative and enriching way. The PILARES program, which provides access to artistic education for children and adults throughout the city, continues to be a vital resource for fostering talent and bringing cultural experiences to all.
For more details about upcoming holiday events, including the concert schedule, themed workshops, and other dance performances, you can visit the PILARES Facebook page. Keep an eye on their updates to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the exciting activities planned for the season.
A free event for all to enjoy
One of the most remarkable aspects of this event is that it is entirely free. In a world where access to cultural events can often be a financial barrier, this performance of El Cascanueces is an opportunity for everyone to enjoy high-quality dance and music. The PILARES program’s mission of making the arts accessible to all is evident in this free ballet performance, and it is a perfect example of how the arts can bring people together, foster community spirit, and provide joy during the holiday season.
Whether you’re attending with family, friends, or alone, this performance of El Cascanueces at the Palacio de Bellas Artes is sure to be a highlight of your holiday season in Mexico City. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy the magic of classical dance and music in one of the most beautiful cultural spaces in the city.
A final invitation
So mark your calendar for December 20 and be sure to arrive early. Join the community for a day of dance, music, and celebration, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with El Cascanueces. This free event is not to be missed, as it promises to be a memorable experience for all ages.