The Nutcracker Ballet
A stunning new papercraft ornament is twirling its way into the 2026 collection.

The Nutcracker Ballet

On December 19, 1892, in St. Petersburg, Russia, The Nutcracker ballet made its debut. But it wasn’t until the New York City Ballet put on the production in 1954 that the show became the beloved Christmastime classic that it is today.

“One of my favorite family traditions was going to see The Nutcracker at Radio City Musical Hall in New York City at the holidays, followed by ice skating at Rockefeller Center” says Keepsake Artist Gregor Benedetti. “This piece is a beautiful tribute to one of my fondest childhood memories and a tradition that so many people cherish.”

The ornament’s wooden frame is shaped like a classic theater with beautiful gold-foil accents and a festive wreath. Inside, intricate paper layers take center stage, adding depth and amazing detail. The Nutcracker Prince, Mouse King and Sugar Plum Fairy pose in front of the fantastical growing tree, and a large cutout window on the back lets light shine into the scene.

But, of course, no The Nutcracker ballet ornament is complete without a little magic! Pull the string to see the ballerina twirl and hear a version of “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” composed by our very own in-house sound team.

Gregor says this is one of the first papercraft ornaments in our collection with magical features. To that, we say: Take a bow!

“The Nutcracker Ballet” For Keeps 26 Spring 2026: 2