The Australian Ballet's Education and Outreach team presents Dancing Story, a free workshop for children aged three to five exploring The Nutcracker through dance, music, costumes and character at Adelaide Festival Centre on Thursday 6 August 2026. Two sessions run from 9:30am to 10:15am and 10:30am to 11:15am, with no previous dance experience required and parents or carers attending alongside their child.

The Australian Ballet's Education and Outreach team is bringing The Nutcracker to life for the youngest of audiences with Dancing Story, a free workshop designed for children aged three to five.

Rather than sitting and watching, kids get to step inside the tale itself, moving through its story via dance, music, costumes and character. The workshops are built to be accessible regardless of learning style or physical ability, and no previous dance experience is needed. That's the whole point. This is about curiosity and movement, not technique.

Parents and carers are required to stay with their child for the full session, which makes it as much a shared experience as a class. It's a nice way to introduce very young children to ballet without any of the formality that can make the art form feel intimidating or distant.

Practical needs are simple. Bring a water bottle, wear comfortable clothing that allows for movement, and pop on shoes that won't restrict little feet as they explore the space.

There are two sessions on offer on Thursday 6 August 2026, one running from 9:30am to 10:15am and a second from 10:30am to 11:15am. Both are free to attend.

For families looking for an entry point into dance and storytelling that doesn't require any prior experience or expense, Dancing Story is a low-pressure way to let kids loose in the world of The Nutcracker before they ever see it performed on a big stage.

Details are correct at the time of publishing. Events can change or be cancelled, so please confirm dates, times and prices with the venue or ticket seller before booking.