CONCERT

The San Jose Nutcracker

Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 14, 2025 at 2 p.m.
Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 2 p.m.
Monday, December 22, 2025 at 2 p.m.
Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 2 p.m.

California Theatre,
San Jose, CA

Concert Length
Approx. 2 hr with intermission

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Artists

  • New Ballet
    Dalia Rawson, choreographer
    Symphony San Jose
    Thomas Shoebotham, conductor

Program

  • Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

    The Nutcracker

About This Performance

Complete your family’s holiday traditions with The San Jose Nutcracker. This unique take on the classic tale of Clara and the Nutcracker is set against the backdrop of 1905 San Jose, including its famous electric tower.

Featuring a company of swirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers, this annual favorite celebrates the heritage that has made Santa Clara Valley the center of innovation it is today.

We are thrilled to announce that Symphony San Jose is once again partnering with New Ballet to bring Tchaikovsky’s timeless score to life.

About San Jose’s Favorite Nutcracker

The San Jose Nutcracker takes place in San Jose at the turn of the last century. This unique production features landmarks of the era, with dazzling new scenic elements including a growing replica of the historic San Jose Light Tower and a skyline of San Jose inspired by the city in 1905. Costumes for the first act were inspired by period dolls from the History San Jose archives and the second act was inspired by our valley in the last century, carpeted in orchard blossoms and known as “The Valley of Heart’s Delight.” Swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and The Sugarplum Fairy will make this holiday ballet a new favorite for the entire family.

Explore our seating map here.

My Very First Nutcracker

Join us for three unique performances tailored for young audiences! My Very First Nutcracker offers a special one-act version of The San Jose Nutcracker, perfect for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children.

Here for more information.

Pre-Concert Festivities

Pre-concert festivities occur one hour prior the concert.

The fun begins at every performance with festive holiday decorations in the elegant lobby, and holiday music played on the theatre’s historical organ. Attendees will enjoy opportunities to interact with costumed characters and be photographed in magical fairytale settings, plus enjoy and treats and toys available for purchase. Concessions offer something for everyone, from sweet treats to celebratory beverages.