Oakland Ballet Company presents its tenth annual production of Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker, returning to Oakland's magnificent Paramount Theatre.
Oakland Ballet's Nutcracker refreshes the holiday classic with elegant choreography, clever storytelling and vibrant sets and costumes. This season marks the 48th year that Oakland Ballet has presented a production of the Nutcracker.
As in previous years, Tchaikovsky's iconic score is performed live by the Oakland Symphony, under the direction of Michael Morgan. The Piedmont East Bay Children's Choir joins the orchestra for the Snow Scene closing the first act.
Several related ticketed events offer ballet audiences opportunities to interact with Oakland Ballet dancers in a festive holiday setting, and support the Nutcracker performances. Sweet Dreams Parties follow the 1pm matinee performances on Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22 at the Paramount Theatre, and allow children and families to meet characters from the ballet and enjoy sweets and refreshments. For adult patrons, a post-performance Encore Reception is planned following the Saturday, December 21 evening performance in the Mezzanine of the Paramount Theatre. The reception will include champagne, hors d'oeuvres and desserts, in the company of Oakland Ballet dancers and artistic staff.