Nutcracker in the Hagenow Museum: A Christmas classic is dying out!

Nutcracker in the Hagenow Museum: A Christmas classic is dying out!

Advent has begun and with it a very special exhibition in the Hagenow Museum that is entirely dedicated to the Nutcracker. These passionate collector's items, part of the Christmas season every year, are the focus of Henry Gawlick's latest presentation, which has opened its doors in time for the first Advent. Gawlick, a former director of the Museum of Everyday Culture, has used his expertise and rich collection to illustrate the development and significance of the Nutcrackers over the years. But as much as they are loved, they represent a difficult legacy for him as dying objects. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker ballet is not only an artistic masterpiece, but has also found its way into film and television, further fueling the fascination with these characters.

His special exhibition entitled “Hansel is my name, Nuts I’m biting – On the history of a Christmas symbol” runs from November 29, 2025 to February 2, 2026 and will make visitors’ hearts beat faster. A large number of interested people took part in the ceremonial opening; entry to the vernissage was free - a welcome opportunity to immerse yourself in the nostalgic world of the Nutcracker. At the same time, an Advent star was raised at the church at 5 p.m. and set atmospheric accents in wintry Hagenow. The museum shows over 100 exhibits, including unusual pieces such as a nutcracker in the shape of Angela Merkel, which is impressive at 1 meter high and weighs 14.8 kg.

Nutcracker: A part of Christmas culture

The role of the nutcrackers has changed over the years. Originally designed as practical tools, they have established themselves as festive symbols, which are now often found in the form of decorative figures in living rooms. Nutcrackers were particularly popular in the GDR, which led to long queues in front of shops on Christmas Eve. Gawlick has dealt intensively with the origins and cultural value of the nutcrackers. He has researched and cataloged exciting stories about each exhibit - a true treasure trove for nostalgics and those interested.

The exhibition not only offers a look back at the past, but also encourages reflection about the future of these traditional figures. The question remains whether the nutcrackers can maintain their place in the modern Christmas season or whether they will slowly die out. Gawlick invites visitors to bring their own Nutcracker memories and be inspired by the exhibition. After all, nostalgia is a particularly important part of the festive season for many.

Visitors can look forward to an impressive journey through the history of the Nutcracker that is not only entertaining but also educational. It's worth taking a trip to the Hagenow Museum to be enchanted by the magic of the Nutcrackers and perhaps even rediscover a piece of your own childhood.

Further information about the exhibition can be found on the Hagenow Museum website: here. For regional news and background information, please also visit Northern Courier.