SD Union Tribune: Creative versions of ‘The Nutcracker’ will keep holiday tradition alive

Creative versions of ‘The Nutcracker’ will keep holiday tradition alive

San Diego Union Tribune

by Elizabeth Marie Himchak

San Diego Ballet and Southern California Ballet find ways to stage the classic holiday ballet

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, seasonal shows like “A Christmas Carol” or “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” are either canceled or will look a lot different this year.

That’s also the case for productions of “The Nutcracker,” the beloved holiday ballet staged by companies and schools around the county — and often their biggest source of income.

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Those not quite ready to attend an in-person performance can catch unique twists on virtual productions, starting with Southern California Ballet.

The Carmel Mountain-based company and ballet school is partnering with Poway OnStage to create a virtual “Nutcracker” field trip for school groups, special needs groups and senior groups.

Participants will be able to get a backstage tour of the Poway Center for the Performing Arts, see the costume shop and watch previously recorded clips from Southern California Ballet’s “Nutcracker” performances.

Company co-artistic director Toby Batley said there are already 4,000 students signed up for the free experience, including some from out of state.

Families and groups can register for “The Nutcracker” field trip through powayonstage.org.