A Cuban reimagining of a festive ballet classic comes to Sheffield
Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana arrives at Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre following a hugely successful, sell-out international tour — bringing a vibrant Cuban twist to one of the world’s most loved ballet productions.

Created by Carlos Acosta CBE, this joyful reworking of The Nutcracker blends classical ballet with rich Cuban dance traditions, infusing the familiar festive story with warmth, rhythm, and Havana colour.
What makes Nutcracker in Havana special?
Set to an exuberant Cuban interpretation of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the production places ballet at its heart while showcasing the distinctive style of Acosta’s acclaimed company, Acosta Danza. The result is a visually striking, high-energy performance that feels both timeless and fresh.

This much-loved family tale is reimagined through Cuban culture, movement, and music — offering something genuinely different for Sheffield audiences, whether you’re a long-time ballet fan or discovering the story for the first time.
About Carlos Acosta
Born in Havana and trained at Cuba’s National School of Ballet, Carlos Acosta is one of the most celebrated figures in global dance. His career has seen him perform with the world’s most prestigious companies, including becoming a principal dancer with London’s Royal Ballet. From Carmen to Don Quixote, Acosta’s interpretations are known for their power, emotion, and technical brilliance.

Nutcracker in Havana represents a personal fusion of heritage and classical tradition — a festive favourite reimagined with unmistakable Cuban spirit.

🎟 Tickets and performance times:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/carlos-acostas-nutcracker-in-havana

Organiser: Sheffield Theatres

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A free winter fan zone brings skating and sport to Sheffield city centre
To celebrate Sheffield hosting the ISU European Figure Skating Championships, the city centre will be transformed this January with a vibrant European Figure Skating Championships Fan Zone, located in the heart of the city at the Peace Gardens.

Running from 10 to 18 January 2026, the Fan Zone offers a week-long programme of free activities for residents, visitors, families, and skating fans — centred around a free-to-use outdoor artificial ice rink.

Ice Rink: Multiple daily sessions
Weekends (Saturday–Sunday): 10:00 – 20:00
Weekdays (Monday–Friday): 14:00 – 20:00
What’s happening at the Fan Zone?
The Fan Zone is designed to create a lively, inclusive atmosphere throughout Championships week, with activities suitable for all ages:
Free Outdoor Ice Rink – Public skating sessions with skate hire included, plus themed sessions every day
Big Screen Coverage – Live broadcasts from the Championships, highlights, and entertainment
Food & Drink Stalls – Hot drinks, family-friendly street food, and local vendors
Entertainment & Activities – Interactive fun throughout the week
Free School Skating Sessions – Giving local pupils the chance to try skating
The rink opens on Saturday morning ahead of Championships week and runs through to Sunday evening after the final competitive events.
Sustainable skating in the city centre
In line with Sheffield’s environmental priorities, the rink will use artificial ice rather than real ice. This more sustainable option significantly reduces energy use while still providing an enjoyable skating experience and helping make the rink accessible to more people.
A major moment for Sheffield sport
The Fan Zone celebrates Sheffield hosting the Championships at the Utilita Arena Sheffield from 13–18 January 2026— marking the first time in over a decade that the UK has welcomed this prestigious international competition.

The Fan Zone is hosted by Sheffield City Council and British Ice Skating, with additional support from Sheffield BID and UK Sport.

💷 Price: FREE

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Celebrate the New Year with a Viennese Gala in Sheffield
Welcome 2026 in style with the New Year Gala Concert from the Sheffield Symphony Orchestra, a much-loved annual tradition for classical music fans across Sheffield and South Yorkshire.

Taking place at the beautiful All Saints Ecclesall Parish Church, this uplifting afternoon concert promises elegance, warmth, and joyful music to start the year on a high note.
What’s in the programme?
The orchestra presents a celebratory Viennese-inspired programme featuring music from the Strauss family, including much-loved classics such as The Blue Danube and Persian March. The afternoon also includes popular highlights from My Fair Lady, The Magnificent Seven, The Marriage of Figaro, and more — making it an accessible and entertaining concert for audiences of all ages.
Performers and special touches
The concert is conducted by John Longstaff, Conductor Emeritus of the orchestra, and features mezzo-soprano Heather Lowe.

As part of the celebration, each ticket includes a complimentary drink, giving audiences the chance to raise a glass and toast the year ahead.

Whether you’re a regular concert-goer or simply looking for something special to do in Sheffield at the start of the year, this relaxed and festive gala is a perfect winter treat.

🎟 Tickets:
Adults £12.50 (drink included)
Students / Children £6.50

🎫 Book online:
https://www.sheffieldsymphony.org.uk/store/c1/Featured_Products.html

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