For decades, the holiday ballet "The Nutcracker" has been a beloved tradition around the world. At its core, it is Tchaikovsky's timeless score that captures the imagination of audiences globally. But what makes this 1892 classic so enduringly popular? It begins with the simple yet powerful story of Clara, whose dreams and imagination transport her to a fantastical battle between toy soldiers and mice.
San Jose Dance Theatre, along with the Cambrian Symphony, will present its 60th anniversary production of "The Nutcracker" at the Center for Performing Arts from December 13-21. Meanwhile, New Ballet will stage its ninth annual production of the ballet at the historic California Theatre through December 23. Both productions promise to bring the magic of this classic holiday tradition to audiences in the South Bay.
For San Jose Dance Theatre's Executive Director Elizabeth Sweeney, "The Nutcracker" holds a special place in her heart due to her personal connection to the production since she was just eight years old. She sees why this ballet has become a beloved tradition that transcends generations and genres - it is about Christmas itself, where Clara embarks on a journey from childhood innocence to bravery and self-discovery.
New Ballet's artistic director Dalia Rawson attributes "The Nutcracker"'s enduring appeal to its universal presence in the lives of classical dancers. With dozens of performances annually, it provides an opportunity for professional dancers like Rawson to hone their skills and connect with audiences worldwide.
San Jose Dance Theatre's Artistic Director Nicole Haskins brings her own unique perspective to this production, highlighting the story's themes of courage and generosity that resonate deeply within Clara's character. According to Haskins, "The Nutcracker" is a testament to Tchaikovsky's score, which has become synonymous with the holiday season.
Whether you are a ballet aficionado or just looking for a festive way to spend your holiday season, both productions promise an unforgettable experience.
San Jose Dance Theatre, along with the Cambrian Symphony, will present its 60th anniversary production of "The Nutcracker" at the Center for Performing Arts from December 13-21. Meanwhile, New Ballet will stage its ninth annual production of the ballet at the historic California Theatre through December 23. Both productions promise to bring the magic of this classic holiday tradition to audiences in the South Bay.
For San Jose Dance Theatre's Executive Director Elizabeth Sweeney, "The Nutcracker" holds a special place in her heart due to her personal connection to the production since she was just eight years old. She sees why this ballet has become a beloved tradition that transcends generations and genres - it is about Christmas itself, where Clara embarks on a journey from childhood innocence to bravery and self-discovery.
New Ballet's artistic director Dalia Rawson attributes "The Nutcracker"'s enduring appeal to its universal presence in the lives of classical dancers. With dozens of performances annually, it provides an opportunity for professional dancers like Rawson to hone their skills and connect with audiences worldwide.
San Jose Dance Theatre's Artistic Director Nicole Haskins brings her own unique perspective to this production, highlighting the story's themes of courage and generosity that resonate deeply within Clara's character. According to Haskins, "The Nutcracker" is a testament to Tchaikovsky's score, which has become synonymous with the holiday season.
Whether you are a ballet aficionado or just looking for a festive way to spend your holiday season, both productions promise an unforgettable experience.
i mean Clara's story is literally timeless, its all about imagination and bravery & self-discovery, u feel? 
& i love how both companies are bringing their own twist to the production. San Jose Dance Theatre's Nicole Haskins is all about highlighting the courage & generosity themes, which is so cool! 
but what really gets me is that New Ballet's Dalia Rawson says its universal appeal is because of how many times it gets performed annually... like that's true lol, dancers get to hone their skills & connect w/ audiences worldwide 
It's like, the ultimate holiday vibe. I'm also loving how both productions have their own unique twists on the story - it's clear that the artistic directors are putting their own spin on the magic of The Nutcracker. 
Can't wait to catch a show! 
. I mean, don’t get me wrong, Tchaikovsky's score is lovely and all, but can't we just watch a Christmas movie or something instead? 
Also, I'm not really sure what the big deal is about Clara's journey from childhood to bravery and self-discovery... sounds like every kid's story ever 
. But hey, if it makes people happy, more power to them 
.
Another year, another flood of tourists clogging up our roads and driving up prices for locals 
. San Jose is at it again with their annual "Nutcracker" production... meanwhile, the real issues in our community are getting lost in the hype 
. When will we focus on affordable housing and supporting small businesses instead of just catering to tourists? 
! But seriously, what is it about "The Nutcracker" that still gets me hyped after all these years? Is it the beautiful music or the way the story takes you on a journey from childhood wonder to bravery and self-discovery? Or maybe it's just the fact that it's been around for over 130 years and people are still falling in love with it? I know for me, every year I watch it, I find myself feeling all the feels 
. It's crazy to think about how a story can be so timeless and yet still feel fresh and exciting.
. I mean, don't get me wrong, the music by Tchaikovsky is iconic and all that, but is it really just because it's a Christmas thing? 
Is it because it taps into our own sense of nostalgia or something?
It's not like the story is exactly complex. Maybe we should be looking deeper into why this ballet has endured for so long... 
i mean, san jose dance theatre's elizabeth sweeney might be all nostalgic about it, but honestly, its just a bunch of kids in tutus running around on stage 
. It's not just the score by Tchaikovsky, but the story itself - it's about letting your imagination run wild & embracing bravery & self-discovery 
. Both productions are gonna be amazing, can't wait to see them! 
. There's something about Tchaikovsky's score that just gets me in the mood for Christmas cookies and twinkly lights. I love how Clara's journey is all about growing up and finding her own strength - it's so inspiring to see kids (and let's be real, adults too) tap into their imaginations like that 
. Can't wait to catch one of these productions with my fam this year! 
