Haoyu Cao

Nutcracker Prince

With a natural elegance and refined classical artistry, Haoyu Cao brings a distinctive presence to the stage, particularly in princely roles that demand technical precision, musical sensitivity and exceptional partnering skills.

An artist with the National Ballet of China and a graduate of the renowned Beijing Dance Academy, Mr. Cao was shortlisted for the 2026 Prix de Lausanne and received full scholarship offers from both the Dutch National Ballet Academy and Hamburg Ballet School. His accomplishments include multiple Gold Awards at major ballet competitions, notably the Liaoning (Shenyang) International Ballet Competition.

His portrayal of the Prince in Peter Wright’s production of The Nutcracker demonstrated his command of classical technique and expressive storytelling. He has also appeared in the Beijing Dance Academy’s 70th Anniversary Gala.

Bringing grace, sophistication and a compelling stage presence to Vancouver, Mr. Cao takes centre stage as the Nutcracker Prince in Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker.

Haowen Lu Snow King & Coffee Pas de Deux
Vancouver Opera Orchestra Accompanying the Nutcracker Live at Each Performance

Right from the curtain rising through the following two hours of the outstanding production, surprise and delight followed one after another.

Vancouver Sun

Frequently Asked Questions

When do tickets go on sale for The Nutcracker?

Tickets usually go on sale in the late Summer each year for the following December. You can check the homepage of this website to check if they are currently on sale.

Are there discounted tickets for large groups?

Group discounts are available for groups of 20 or more, please contact us via Nutcracker@GohBallet.com for details.

What is the policy on late seating?

Show policy is latecomers will not be seated until Intermission. Exceptions will be considered in cases of inclement weather, parking issues and/or box office delays. Please try your best to be on time.

Can a small child sit on my lap during the performance?

For fire and building safety reasons the theatre does not allow children in laps, all attendees must have a purchased ticket, including babies. We recommend the show for children 3 years old and up, babies in laps are not permitted.

I am bringing a child to the ballet and I am afraid that they will have trouble seeing over people’s heads. Is there anything that I can do?

Yes – Booster cushions are available at the theatre for free to help children view the ballet without obstruction, available at Coat Check.

What should I wear?

Although there is no dress code, it is recommended that you dress out of respect for the dancers. Most patrons wear “business attire” (men: coat and tie, women: dresses or dress pants) or “dressy casual”.

Does the theatre have an elevator?

Yes — the theatre has an elevator and ushers are happy to assist you in finding your section and seats.

Is accessible seating available?

Accessible seating is available, for more detailed venue information, please visit Vancouver Civic Theatres – Queen Elizabeth Theatre for more information.