December 12 – 24, 2015

In cities around the world, The Nutcracker has become a Christmas holiday tradition, and the holidays are not complete without seeing The Nutcracker live. Festival Ballet Theatre’s breathtaking production features superb colorful sceneries and dazzling costumes, which make this age-old tradition sparkle like new!

Starting with a spectacular 19th century holiday party, the story follows a young girl on a journey to the wondrous Land of Sweets into the Sugarplum Fairy’s glorious kingdom. Set to the timeless music of Peter Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara, a young girl who receives the gift of a nutcracker soldier from her mysterious godfather. During the night, magical events unfold: the Christmas tree grows taller, toy soldiers and little mice become larger, and Clara’s nutcracker comes to life. He battles the ferocious Mouse King, and just when it seems all is lost, Clara distracts the Mouse King and saves her beloved nutcracker. Her act of bravery transforms the nutcracker into a handsome prince who takes Clara on a magical journey.

This full-length, traditional production is choreographed and directed by Festival Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director Salwa Rizkalla, and features a cast of professional dancers and more than 100 Southern California children.

Guest Artists Include:

Maria Kochetkova – San Francisco Ballet
Tiit Helimets – San Francisco Ballet
Saturday, Dec 12 at 2pm
Saturday, Dec 12 at 7pm
Sunday, Dec 13 at 1pm
Sunday, Dec 13 at 6pm

Sara Mearns – New York City Ballet*
Fabrice Calmels – Joffrey Ballet
Friday, Dec 18 at 7pm
Saturday, Dec 19 at 2pm
Saturday, Dec 19 at 7pm
Sunday, Dec 20 at 1pm
Sunday, Dec 20 at 6pm

Irina Dvorovenko – Former American Ballet Theatre Principal
Maxim Beloserkovsky – Former American Ballet Theatre Principal
Tuesday, Dec 22 at 2pm
Tuesday, Dec 22 at 7pm
Wednesday, Dec 23 at 2pm
Thursday, Dec 24 at 11am

*Guest artists may be subject to change.

Festival Ballet Theatre on Instagram

“The dancers … are an undeniable draw. It is rare to see these dancers sharing the stage together.” – Dance Critic, Laura Bleiberg

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 at 6PM