Sacramento Ballet - The Nutcracker Ballet information for an annual event you won't want to miss!

The Sacramento Ballet has delighted audiences for several decades with its annual Nutcracker ballet performances. Featuring the finest talent, spectacular costumes and dynamic stage lighting that brings fantasy to life in Sacramento's world class presentation, it is part of a body of works that have included more than 13 full-length ballets, 18 Balanchine masterworks, 36 Sacramento premieres, and 34 world premieres. Co-artistic directors Ron Cunningham and Carinne Binda have helped grow the ballet's performance schedule and quality of presentations, creating a force both locally and nationally. Enjoying substantial success as a recognized arts organization in Sacramento, the company's Nutcracker Ballet is regarded as the premier event of the holiday season.

Sacramento Ballet's Nutcracker consistently receives glowing reviews from audiences and media who often remark that they weren't aware such a gem exists, providing a cultural experience in the Sacramento area that's simply timeless. With over 100,000 fans annually attending performances, support for the ballet company includes not only enthusiastic audiences, but grants from prestigious foundations such as National Endowment for the Arts and California Arts Council, plus local organizations such as Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission, as well.

The traditional Nutcracker performance, itself, is a fantasy trip about a little girl, Clara, who eagerly awaits Christmas. She is drawn into a journey where toys come to life in a story woven around these suddenly animate objects. The Nutcracker is the best known ballet in existence and a tradition throughout the US, providing entertainment for all ages. Its broad appeal spans all demographics, too. The Sacramento Ballet's goal to reach youth is fulfilled annually with several Nutcracker matinee performances specifically for kids (contact Education & Outreach Director at 916.552.5800x113 for more information.)

For those visiting Sacramento or locals seeking a tradition to enjoy each holiday season, not only are you treated to the best talent on stage, but also live music by the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra. Sacramento Ballet traditionally offers several community meet & greet opportunities before The Nutcracker performances, the perfect way to introduce yourself and the kids or seniors in your life to the talented costumed dancers you may later see in a stage performance. Whether visiting, or residing locally in the Sacramento area, this special holiday offering is guaranteed to add magic to the season of joyful music and dance.

Where to go: The Nutcracker performance box office is held at the Community Center Theater, 1301 L Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. Reviews of the theater are positive, and include mention of comfortable seating and a nice venue.

Getting there: Numerous flights to Sacramento International Airport supply affordable shuttle service to downtown hotels near the Convention Center.

Tickets: To view the current ballet season, upcoming ballets, season tickets and individual ticket purchases, you'll find everything on the official Sacramento Ballet web site: www.sacballet.org. Call the Community Center Theater Box Office at (916) 264.5181. Tickets are also sold online charge a handling fee.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Sacramento, 1209 L Street, Sacramento, CA; and Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, 1230 J Street, Sacramento, CA

calsite