Steppin' Out

Cover Story

What a Doll

Holiday classic 'The Nutcracker' celebrates an extraordinary toy

By Heather Zimmerman

Homemade holiday gifts are often the most thoughtful, but Herr Drosselmeyer was being a D.I.Y. overachiever when he made a nutcracker doll for his goddaughter, Maria. Maria's magical doll is, of course, one of the stars of the beloved ballet The Nutcracker, presented by Ballet San Jose in its 28th annual production, Dec. 13-23 at the Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd., San Jose. The company's artistic director Dennis Nahat choreographed this lavish version. Symphony Silicon Valley performs Tchaikovsky's memorable music for the show.

A one-hour version of the show for the youngest audiences takes place Dec. 21, 1:30 p.m. Nutcracker-themed teas will follow matinees on Dec. 21 and Dec. 23.

The party gets started, literally, Dec. 13 with the Nutcracker Opening Night Celebration, a swank dinner catered by top area restaurants, followed by the opening-night performance of The Nutcracker.

Ballet tickets are $30-$82 (one-hour version is $16-$47); tea tickets are $50 adults/$30 children. Opening night celebration is $225 ($150 for the dinner only). For more information, call 408.288.2800 or visit www.balletsanjose.org.