On December 3, 2022, the San Francisco Ballet kicked off its 80th annual production of The Nutcracker, drawing crowds to the War Memorial Opera House for an evening of holiday magic. The beloved holiday classic, with choreography by Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson and music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, has become a treasured tradition for families and visitors alike. This year’s performance marked not only the milestone of its 80th anniversary in San Francisco but also the return of live performances after two years of pandemic-related disruptions.
The evening was filled with festive energy as the renowned ballet company brought the timeless story of Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker to life with stunning set designs, vibrant costumes, and flawless choreography. The Nutcracker has been a staple of the San Francisco Ballet’s season since 1944, captivating audiences year after year with its grandeur and heartwarming holiday spirit.
Key players in this production included Helgi Tomasson, the long-serving Artistic Director of the San Francisco Ballet, whose choreography maintains the production’s traditional elegance while infusing it with a modern flair. Tomasson has overseen numerous iterations of the performance throughout his tenure, and this year’s anniversary celebration felt like a culmination of his leadership.
Performing as the Sugar Plum Fairy, principal dancer Maria Kochetkova brought her years of experience and artistic depth to the role, capturing the imagination of the audience with her graceful movements and commanding stage presence. Joining her was the talented Davit Karapetyan, whose performance as the Nutcracker Prince earned rave reviews for its precision and poise.
The production’s intricate sets, designed by Michael Yeargan, and the enchanting lighting design by Christopher Akerlind created an atmosphere of festive splendor. The audience was transported to a dreamlike world of snowflakes, magical toys, and holiday cheer, all enhanced by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra under the baton of conductor Martin West.
In addition to the beautiful staging, the performance was noted for its cultural inclusivity. As part of its 80th anniversary celebration, the San Francisco Ballet introduced a few modern tweaks to the production, including nods to the city’s diverse communities and a more contemporary take on some of the classic scenes. These touches helped bring new life to the age-old production, ensuring its relevance in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
The return of The Nutcracker to the stage was a highlight for many in the audience, many of whom had not attended a live performance since the pandemic. “There’s nothing like seeing this show in person, especially after such a long time. It’s been an emotional return for all of us,” said Julia Mitchell, a longtime attendee of the performance. “It feels like the holidays truly begin when I see this show.”
As the opening night continued to receive enthusiastic applause and standing ovations, it was clear that The Nutcracker remains a cherished holiday tradition in San Francisco, and the 80th-anniversary production serves as a testament to both the timeless appeal of the ballet and the resilience of the San Francisco Ballet company.
