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SAN FRANCISCO BALLET CELEBRATES THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICA’S FIRST “NUTCRACKER.” The quintessential holiday classic, “Nutcracker” is the first thing most people think about when they think about ballet. And with good reason: Since its first performance in the United States, in San Francisco on Christmas Eve 1944, it’s become the most performed ballet in the country. The story of Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the valiant Nutcracker Prince is now a beloved American holiday tradition. San Francisco Ballet’s production, set in 1915, is a particularly gorgeous combination of dance, music and costume, punctuated by Menlo Park Illusionist Marshall Magoon’s terrific visual effects that make toys change size and come to life. And always, to the first-time viewer or the holiday regular, San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker delivers the greatest magic of all, the gift of dreams, and when Uncle Drosselmeyer raises his arms and commands the Christmas tree to grow, and grow, and GROW, anything seems possible in the fanciful world of wonder that appears beneath its giant boughs. Two hours with a 20-minute intermission. Dec. 11 through Dec. 29. For a look at the San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker legacy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIV9GmdFCVY

While Nutcracker is now synonymous with Christmas, the first complete production in America was performed in 1944 by San Francisco Ballet. We invite you to continue a tradition or create a new one with those you care about. Nutcracker is for everyone so whether it's with friends, family, co-workers or a special someone, attending our 75th Anniversary Celebration will be a spectacular experience

TICKET INFORMATION. Tickets may be purchased at (415) 865-2000 or by visiting sfballet.org/nutcracker. Groups of 20 or more can save 20% on select performances; call Group Sales Representative Nannette Mickle at (415) 865-6785 for more information. San Francisco Ballet recommends that children attending “Nutcracker” be at least 5 years old. No children under 3 are permitted, including babes in arms. Everyone entering the Opera House, regardless of age, must have a ticket, and children must be seated with an accompanying adult. No lap sitting. Booster seats for children are provided free of charge for use on the Orchestra level. Parents may consider selecting an aisle seat when bringing young children in case a quick exit is needed for an unavoidable visit to the restroom, or for a talkative or restless child. Parents should be prepared to remove children creating a disturbance during the performance.

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