Mattel Inc. a leading global play and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world, and The Australian Ballet, have announced a partnership to mark the 25th anniversary of Barbie in the Nutcracker, the special that launched the brand’s animated legacy and became a holiday classic.
In 2001, Barbie in the Nutcracker captured the hearts of children everywhere. Now, Barbie and The Australian Ballet are bringing that joy to life for a new generation through performances and magical experiences ahead of an all-new animated special from Barbie this September.
“Barbie has inspired generations through storytelling, imagination and play, and experiences like this give families new ways to connect with the stories they love. Partnering with The Australian Ballet brings the world of Barbie in the Nutcracker beyond the screen, creating meaningful shared experiences that celebrate one of Barbie’s most enduring stories,” said Paul Faulkner, SVP & Managing Director, Mattel Asia Pacific.
“For many people, Barbie in the Nutcracker was their first introduction to our magical world of ballet. As we prepare to bring our production of The Nutcracker to stages in Melbourne and Sydney, we’re delighted to partner with Mattel to celebrate the enduring connection between Barbie and ballet,” said David Hallberg, Artistic Director of The Australian Ballet.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate ballet, while reconnecting parents with a story that first sparked their own imagination and love of dance.”
To mark the 25th anniversary of the original, Barbie in the Nutcracker returns in an all-new animated special on Netflix later this year. The 45-minute reimagining brings modern animation and fresh storytelling to the classic tale.
In this new adventure, Barbie “Brooklyn” Roberts steps into the role of the Sugarplum Princess and Barbie “Malibu” Roberts stars as Clara, as they journey through a musical, magical dreamworld filled with holiday wonder, courage and friendship.
The special invites a whole new generation to fall in love with the story that defined the Barbie brand’s animated legacy. The project is overseen by Rob David and Teale Sperling for Mattel Studios.
Barbie is also introducing a line of dolls and accessories based on the new content and designed to inspire hours of ballet play. The new Barbie Nutcracker doll collection includes:
- Barbie® Nutcracker Clara Doll – Ballet-spring ankle, seven points of articulation, iconic nightgown with ruffle detail and all-over foil print. Includes friendship necklace and Nutcracker accessory.
- Barbie® Nutcracker Clara Deluxe Doll – Hold her hand and twirl to watch her skirt transform from pink tulle to satin rainbow candy print. Ballet-spring ankle, seven points of articulation, headband, necklace and giftbox.
- Barbie® Nutcracker Sugar Plum Fairy Doll – The same magical skirt-twirl transformation, ballet spring ankle, seven articulation points, plus headband, necklace and wand.
- Barbie® Nutcracker Daisy Doll – Ballet-spring ankle, seven points of articulation, signature outfit with hat and candy cane accessory.
- Barbie® Nutcracker Land of Sweets Ballerinas – Choose from Nikki as Marzipan or Renee as Candy Cane, each with a gorgeous candy-themed headband.
- Barbie® Nutcracker Chelsea Snow Fairies – Little ones can join the cast as Chelsea the Snow Fairy, complete with soft-goods tutu, hairband and wand.
- Barbie® Nutcracker Land of Sweets Horse and Sled – White horse with soft mane, candy-scented forelock and colourful accents. Sled fits two dolls (not included). Includes three clips and brush for styling and storytelling play.
Families can enter the Barbie Nutcracker competition for the chance to win exclusive Nutcracker-inspired experiences as part of the partnership with The Australian Ballet by purchasing any Mattel Barbie toy product from participating retailers from July 2026.
Prizes include weekly double passes to see The Nutcracker live in Melbourne or Sydney, digital gift cards, and a major prize package for four, including tickets to the show, a travel allowance and a Barbie merchandise pack.
As The Australian Ballet prepares to perform Sir Peter Wright’s acclaimed production of The Nutcracker at Arts Centre Melbourne from 24 – 31 October 2026 before travelling to the Sydney Opera House from 28 November – 16 December 2026, its partnership with Barbie will give Australian families new opportunities to experience the beloved story through a fresh lens.
Images: Joseph Caley and Mia Heathcote in The Australian Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker (Wright) – photo by Daniel Boud (2024) | Barbie In The Nutcracker – Doll (supplied) | Barbie in the Nutcracker – Clara Ballerina Doll (supplied) | Barbie In The Nutcracker – Sugar Plum Doll (supplied)