The O2

X Factor and Popstar to Opera Star winner Joe McElderry will be taking to the stage at The O2 this Christmas when he introduces the celebrated family Christmas ballet The Nutcracker...

From 27 to 30 December 2011 Victor Hochhauser and The O2 in association with Universal Music Arts and Entertainment will present six magical performances of Sir Peter Wright's world acclaimed interpretation of the Christmas classic, with Joe McElderry performing a selection of festive songs prior to the curtain rising.

Joe has been melting hearts all over the country as he tours his stunning recordings of traditional carols including 'Silent Night', to popular favourites like 'Driving Home For Christmas', all of which appear on his new album, 'Classic Christmas'.

"I'm thrilled that I've been given the opportunity to perform at The O2," said McElderry. "The Nutcracker is a magical ballet and it will be a great honour to introduce it in front of an expectant arena."

Ingrid Sutej, Director of Content Development for The O2, added: "Joe has an amazing voice and we're excited that he'll be performing on The O2's stage before introducing this stunning production of The Nutcracker. At a time of year when families are spending time together, the combination of Joe McElderry and The Nutcracker ballet will be a magical event that just encapsulates the festive spirit in a unique way and it will make for a very happy Christmas at our venue."

"We are excited to have the opportunity to bring this world famous ballet in The Nutcracker and exceptional singing talent in Joe McElderry to The O2," added Lilian Hochhauser, Director of Victor Hochhauser. "I cannot wait to see how an already visually spectacular production transforms when performed in this stunning arena. It is going to be absolutely breathtaking."

"The O2 will bring a whole new dimension to The Nutcracker and with Joe introducing it the performances it will be a wonderful event for all the family."

Birmingham Royal Ballet will follow the critical and commercial success of the Royal Ballet's Romeo and Juliet which was staged at The O2 in June and was watched by nearly 50,000 people. The O2 is determined to continue making ballet more accessible and affordable to a wider family audience. Tickets for The Nutcracker introduced by Joe McElderry are available from £10 per person and tickets for children under 16 are half-price.