Yui Yonezawa joined the National Ballet of Japan as a soloist in 2010, after dancing with Ballet San Jose, and became a principal in 2013. Her documented repertory includes Giselle, Manon, Cinderella and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. She also created the role of Lady Macbeth in Will Tuckett’s The Tragedy of Macbeth.
The featured recording
In the featured Nutcracker recording from 25 December 2025, Yonezawa dances Clara / the Sugar Plum Fairy, alongside Takafumi Watanabe. The production is Tuckett’s version for the National Ballet of Japan, with choreography after Lev Ivanov and Tchaikovsky’s music arranged by Martin Yates.
A viewing suggestion
Follow the continuity between Clara at the family party and her appearance in the Kingdom of Sweets. The story makes them part of one journey; look for the moments that connect her reactions and relationships across the two settings.
Explore further
Continue to the production and recording guide for the complete credited cast and viewing options, or explore the company and the work. The featured recording also introduces Takafumi Watanabe.
Sources
- https://www.nntt.jac.go.jp/english/ballet/the-national-ballet-of-japan/dancers/principal/yonezawa-yui.html
- https://www.nntt.jac.go.jp/english/news/ballet/ballet-nutcracker-streaming-2026.html
Sources checked: 4 November 2026.