Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker!

Start with the key information

Begin with Nutcracker Fact File, a mind map that brings together details about the choreographer, company, accompaniment and costume designer. Use it to build an overview before moving to AQA Dance Nutcracker Key Information. This flashcard deck covers lighting, set design, costume and accompaniment, with references to parts of the work such as the orphanage and By Invitation Only.

As you study, note which details you can recall and which you want to return to. The fact file and flashcards offer different ways to look at the information: a connected overview and short prompts.

Explore scenes and themes

The Nutcracker ice skating scene mind map focuses on choreography, costume, accompaniment and lighting. It describes how posture, sliding steps and swinging arms create the effect of ice skating. Use it to connect a movement description with the scene’s other features.

For themes, look at Key Themes in the Nutcracker. It includes first love, growing up, adventure and dreams. The Nutcracker mind map also connects themes to moments involving Clara. Compare the maps to see how each organizes its examples, then use the flashcards to recall relevant details.

Use the resources together

This topic is one section of the Dance Set Works and Analysis unit in Performing arts (theatre, dance). The resources give school students ways to practice identifying features of the work and connecting them to scenes or themes. Teachers can also use the maps and cards as ready-made material for those activities.

There are no quizzes listed on this topic page, so pair a mind map with a flashcard deck instead. Study the map, cover the details and use the cards as recall prompts. Return to the map when you need context, then choose another scene or theme to explore.