New Ballet and Symphony San Jose present the 2025 holiday production of The San Jose Nutcracker, choreographed by New Ballet Founder and Director, Dalia Rawson.
This unique take on the classic tale of Clara and the Nutcracker is set against the backdrop of 1905 San Jose with landmarks of the era and dazzling scenic elements, including the historic San Jose Electric Light Tower and a skyline of the City in the turn-of-the-last-century. The costumes for the first act were inspired by period dolls from History San Jose’s archives and the second act reflects the Santa Clara Valley carpeted in orchard blossoms that inspired the name “The Valley of Heart’s Delight” while celebrating the heritage that has made the South Bay the center of innovation it is today.
PRE-SHOW FESTIVITIES begin one-hour prior to the performances: Every performance includes festive holiday decorations in the elegant lobby of the California Theatre with holiday music played on the venue’s historic organ. Attendees will enjoy opportunities to interact with costumed characters and be photographed in magical fairytale settings, plus treats and toys are available for purchase.
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES FOR THE VERY YOUNG: In addition to eight full-length productions of Tchaikovsky’s immortal classic, there will be three performances of a special one-act My Very First Nutcracker which are ideal for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children. Curtain time for these special performances is 11:00am.
The full-length, two-act production of The Nutcracker runs 2 hours with intermission. The one-act production of My Very First Nutcracker runs 55-minutes and is designed especially for families with very young children. More information and pricing listed below.
Performances of My Very First Nutcracker are 11:00am on Sunday, Dec 14, Sunday, Dec 21, and Monday, Dec 22. One-act pricing in $26.50 to $106.50 (which includes all city and handling fees.) All other performances have curtain times of 2pm or 7pm. Prices for those performances are $31.50 to $126.50 (which includes all city and handling fees.)
Photo: Naomi Le as Clara dances with her Nutcracker. Photo by Chris Hardy