THE south has gone Nutcracker crazy this Christmas. As if the English National Ballet's radical new updating of the Tchaikovsky classic, with its cartoonish redesign courtesy of Gerald Scarfe, wasn't enough, ballet fans now have the chance to see a more traditional version by the Russian National Ballet.

The Nutcracker is one of the most popular ballets of all time, and makes the perfect festive treat with its enchanting music and magical storyline about a young girl's adventures in a strange dream-world where toys and sweets come to life.

Founded by Sergio Radchenko, a former star of the Bolshoi Ballet, the RNB features the remarkable talents of some of Russia's most gifted young dancers.

The spectacular production also promises glittering costumes, a

traditional fairytale setting and accompaniment by the Russian National Orchestra.

You can see the Russian National Ballet's Nutcracker at the Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth on Sunday, December 8.

Performances are at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Tickets are priced from £15. For more information, call the box office on 01202 456456.