2012-2013 Season

The Secret Garden Ballet & Mixed Repertoire
October 14, 2012

The Nutcracker
December 14-24, 2012

Don Quixote
March 16 & 17, 2013

The Nutcracker

At the Irvine Barclay Theatre

Set to the timeless music of Peter Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara, a young girl who receives the gift of a nutcracker soldier from her mysterious godfather. During the night, magical events unfold: the Christmas tree grows taller, toy soldiers and little mice become larger, and Clara’s nutcracker comes to life. He battles the ferocious Mouse King, and just when it seems all is lost, Clara distracts the Mouse King and saves her beloved nutcracker. Her act of bravery transforms the nutcracker into a handsome prince who takes Clara on a magical journey. 

This full-length, traditional production is choreographed and directed by Festival Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director Salwa Rizkalla, and features a cast of professional dancers and more than 100 Southern California children.

Spectacular guest artists:
Irina Dvorovenko & Maxim Beloserkovsky - American Ballet Theatre
Carla Korbes - Pacific Northwest Ballet & Fabrice Calmels - Joffrey Ballet
Stella Abrera & Sascha Radetsky - American Ballet Theatre
Jamie Kopit - American Ballet Theatre