Going nutty over Christmas

If, like me, you're one of those for whom the approach of Christmas feels like you've booked into the Bates motel for a shower, then you should help yourself to some timely pre-seasonal cheer, courtesy of Mark Morris.

The acclaimed American choreographer added his name to the long list of those to take a crack at The Nutcracker in 1991, but this is the first time his version has made it to London. It's an important point because, given the sell-out success of Matthew Bourne's Nutcracker! last year, you could be forgiven for feeling all cracked out.

But Morris is no bandwagon-jumper and, to his credit, his spin on Tchaikovsky's classic score is blessed with its own brand of theatrical magic. The first half is the real winner, opening up with a 1950s-style family gathering overflowing with cool fashion ideas, before gliding on to the coup de grace, a glittering stardust spectacular that dazzles the senses.

Sensibly, Morris makes no attempt to make sense of the story - because there isn't one - but he struggles to maintain the momentum in a second half that's the dance equivalent of a fancy dress parade. There's a round-the-world dance contest - Morocco wins by a veiled head - but it's Tchaikovsky's tune-packed score, played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, that keeps things on track.

Still, with a hugely watchable cast working their socks off, there's more than enough to banish the bah humbugs. For one night at least.

Until Nov 27, Sadler's Wells, Rosebery Avenue EC1, Tue to Sun 7.30pm, Sat and Sun mats 2.30pm, £10 to £40. Tel: 020 7863 8000. www.sadlerswells.com Tube: Angel

Mark Morris Dance Group: The Hard Nut (The Nutcracker With A Twist!)