Story

The story begins on Christmas Eve 1830, at the Stahlbaums home, where Clara's family is preparing for an extravagant celebration. The Guests arrive. The highlight of the young girl's evening is the arrival of her mysterious Godfather, Herr Dresselmeyer, whom demonstrates his magical creations including a life-size soldier doll and beautiful ballerina doll. He then gives Clara a wooden soldier Nutcracker.

Later that evening, Clara sneaks to the Living Room to find her precious Nutcracker Doll under the tree. The grandfather clock strikes midnight, and her Godfather casts a spell on the room - making it suddenly triple in size. Clara is met by a battle between an army of mice, trying to invade the room, and a troop of toy soldiers, led by the Nutcracker.

After having won the battle - thanks to Clara, who throws her slipper at the Mouse Queen - the Nutcracker turns into a handsome young prince and leads the girl into an enchanted world. Dancing snowflakes dance the land, and two ladies in waiting appear and lead Clara and her Prince on a magical sleigh to the Kingdom of the Sweets.

In the Kingdom of the Sweets, an elaborate celebration is prepared in honor of Clara's courage against the Mouse Queen. Dancers from Far away lands perform before the royal throne. When it's time for Clara and her Nutcracker prince to leave, the inhabitants of the magical kingdom all gather to bid them farewell. The lights fade, as does her Godfather's magical spell. Clara is once again left holding her special gift - The Nutcracker.