Charles Jude's 'Nutcracker' Premieres at Teatro San Carlo in Naples

Charles Jude's contemporary reimagining of Tchaikovsky's 'The Nutcracker' premiered on December 29 at the Teatro San Carlo in Naples, sparking local debate. The production, set in the 1930s with flapper dresses and digital projections, departs from the traditional 19th-century aesthetic. Jude, artistic director of the Opéra de Bordeaux, was invited by Giuseppe Picone, newly appointed director of the Teatro San Carlo ballet, after Picone sent him a video of dancer Alessandro Staiano. Staiano subsequently performed at the Opéra de Bordeaux in 'Coppélia'. The Naples production features Staiano as the Nutcracker Prince and Annachiara Amirante as Marie, with notable performances by Sara Sancamillo, Danilo Notaro, Candida Sorrentino, Luisa Ieluzzi, and Salvatore Manzo. Sets by Nicola Rubertelli blend realistic and surreal atmospheres using digital projections, which drew criticism but also create dreamlike effects. Lighting, especially a wood lamp, enhances the snowstorm scene with blinding white. The production aims to attract younger audiences and compete internationally by balancing tradition and innovation.