Wish it could be Christmas everyday? Well, you’re in luck, as Matthew Bourne is offering up a festive Nutcracker! for all seasons at the Marlowe Theatre.

Matthew returns to this snowy show-stopper, which is visiting Canterbury this March, for the first time in 10 years. The production has been reimagined for the 21st century with his trademark wit and whimsy.

“This is very much a new production,” says the renowned choreographer and director. “The show has been substantially re-choreographed and Anthony Ward has re-thought his memorable and iconic designs to spectacular effect.”

Nutcracker! takes audiences on a magical journey as they ice-skate through a shimmering winter wonderland and dive into a scrumptious candy kingdom, all influenced by 1930s Hollywood and the golden era of musicals.

While this production has been given a fresh coat of paint for new audiences, there are still plenty of classic moments that lifelong fans will recognise throughout the iconic ballet.

“There are certain things that every production of the Nutcracker should deliver,” insists Matthew. “The magical growing Christmas Tree; the transformation of the Nutcracker into a handsome young man; and the falling of the snow during the ‘snowflakes’ sequence. Everyone feels a sense of childlike pleasure when snow begins to fall, and I wanted to try and capture that sense of pure joy.”

And, of course, audiences will recognise the show’s beautiful original music by Russian composer Tchaikovsky, which has been delighting audiences since the 1890s.

“One thing that has not been re-thought and updated is the much-loved score,” comments Matthew, whose first production of the Nutcracker debuted in 1992. “30 years on I find Tchaikovsky’s music more and more profound; its magic turns us all into kids again.”

Matthew believes it is this enchanting score, along with its magical story, that keeps people - including himself - returning to the show time and time again.

“I’m convinced that the main reason that the Nutcracker has retained its perennial appeal is because of Tchaikovsky’s incredible score. After 130 years it retains its mystery, magic, and the power to transport us to another world.

“[The Nutcracker] is about growing up and first love and these are things everyone can relate to. I think this is why it remains so popular with all members of the family.”

With a spectacular score, awe-inspiring costumes and sets, dazzling choreography and just a sprinkling of surprises, audiences will love this new take on a timeless show.

Nutcracker! is running at the Marlowe from Tuesday, March 8 to Saturday, March 12. Book online here or call 01227 787 787.