This November, the timeless holiday magic of The Nutcracker returns to Brussels, offering a fresh interpretation under the artistic direction of Brazilian choreographer Anderson Santana.
The Brussels International Ballet will perform Tchaikovsky’s beloved classic at Wolubilis in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert on 16 November, promising a captivating blend of tradition, artistry, and global talent.
A Brazilian Vision in Europe
Anderson Santana’s journey from Rio de Janeiro to Brussels is a story of passion and perseverance. Trained at the Ballet School of Rio de Janeiro and later at the Teatro Municipal, Santana’s career took a decisive turn when the legendary choreographer Maurice Béjart invited him to join the Ballet of the 20th Century in Europe.
After performing across Europe, Santana founded the Brussels International Ballet — both a professional academy and performance company — to nurture young dancers aiming for world stages. “I wanted to create a place that trains dancers to the highest level, not just a school,” Santana told The Brussels Times.
A Professional Academy of Global Talent
Located in Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, the academy hosts around 40 to 50 dancers from Belgium, the United States, Canada, Australia, and other nations. The training is rigorous — classes run six days a week, from morning to evening, covering classical ballet, contemporary dance, anatomy, Pilates, and nutrition.
“To become a dancer, they have to work at least four hours of classical every day,” Santana emphasizes. His commitment to excellence is reflected each winter through The Nutcracker, which showcases both his choreography and the dancers’ artistry.
Tradition Meets Modern Magic
Santana’s version of The Nutcracker maintains the story’s classical essence while introducing contemporary staging and choreography. The production features 40 dancers, lavish costumes, and enchanting sets that bring Clara’s dream to life — from the battle with the Mouse King to the Kingdom of Sweets.
“There will be the little mice, the soldiers, the snowflakes,” Santana says. “It’s a show for adults and children alike, full of technique and magic.”
Building a Legacy
Beyond performance, Santana’s greatest pride lies in shaping the next generation of dancers. Many graduates from his academy now perform with leading ballet companies around the world. “They usually stay with us for about three years. The goal is to be the catalyst for their careers,” he explains.
The Nutcracker is co-produced by Brussels-based producer Fabrice Vandeloise. The production opens at Wolubilis on 16 November and will continue in Namur, Nivelles, and Wavre through December. Tickets are available via the Brussels International Ballet’s official website.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
