News Summary
The American Ballet Theatre’s performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ at Segerstrom Center for the Arts celebrates its 10th season. Featuring over 100 performers, local talents, and a live orchestra, this holiday tradition promises to delight audiences. The story unfolds with Clara on a magical journey with her nutcracker doll, showcasing the joy of ballet. VIP seating options are available, and tickets can be purchased online, ensuring families can join in this cherished celebration of dance and community.
Costa Mesa, CA – The American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is set to dazzle audiences with its performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, marking a significant milestone as this year celebrates the production’s 10th season at the venue. Performances are scheduled from December 11, 2025, to December 21, 2025.
The Segerstrom Center is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA. This beloved holiday tradition features a host of talented performers, with over 100 cast members bringing the enchanting story to life. The choreography is crafted by renowned choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, while the stunning sets and costumes are the work of Tony Award winner Richard Hudson. Audiences will also be treated to a live performance of Tchaikovsky’s memorable score, performed by the Pacific Symphony.
At the heart of “The Nutcracker” is the tale of Clara, a young girl who receives a nutcracker doll during a Christmas party. After falling asleep, she embarks on a magical journey with the nutcracker, who transforms into a prince. The production intertwines themes of fantasy and childhood innocence, introducing viewers to a whimsical world of sugarplum fairies and brave toy soldiers.
This year’s performance will feature local talents, including the Kimura siblings, Sakura (13) and Kotaro (11), from Costa Mesa. Sakura will step into the iconic role of Clara, while Kotaro takes on the role of the Little Mouse. Their involvement highlights the connection between ABT and the local community, particularly through the ABT William J. Gillespie School, which nurtures aspiring dancers and was established in 2015, named in honor of philanthropist William J. Gillespie.
The school plays a crucial role in the production by providing local dancers for “The Nutcracker”. Auditions for the show are held in September each year, followed by weekly rehearsals on Saturdays leading up to the performances. The children’s rehearsal director, Sarah Jones, has praised the young dancers for their enthusiasm and commitment, emphasizing the joy of working with such talent.
In addition to traditional seating, the production offers a limited number of VIP Sweet Seats, which include premier seating and a commemorative tote filled with holiday treats, enhancing the experience for attendees. The performers, including the Kimura siblings, have dedicated months to perfecting their roles, with Kotaro highlighting the exciting challenges of performing in costume.
The opening night will feature Hee Seo as Clara and Cory Stearns as the Nutcracker Prince, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. With its captivating choreography and rich storytelling, “The Nutcracker” aims to ignite the magic of ballet in the hearts of audiences, especially for young dancers eager to showcase their skills.
Tickets for the performances are available through the Segerstrom Center for the Arts website, providing an opportunity for families to partake in this cherished holiday tradition. As anticipation builds for this tenth season of “The Nutcracker”, the American Ballet Theatre continues to enchant audiences in Costa Mesa and nurture the next generation of ballet dancers through its impactful local programs.
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Additional Resources
- Broadway World: The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center
- LA Times: Local Dancers in The Nutcracker
- OC Register: Teen Transitions to Principal Dancer
- USA Today: The Rat King and The Nutcracker
- San Diego Union Tribune: Holiday Guide to Nutcracker Ballets
- Wikipedia: The Nutcracker
- Google Search: The Nutcracker ballet
- Google Scholar: The Nutcracker theory
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Nutcracker
- Google News: The Nutcracker ballet 2024
