"Much of that begins with Tchaikovsky's timeless score, which makes its way into every aspect of December living-films, commercials and transpositions that put its music into every genre imaginable. But while popular access is something "The Nutcracker" never struggles with, there's no denying the power of its purest form, in a theater as young Clara's dreams and imagination usher in the battle between toy soldiers and an army of mice."
"That power is rooted deeply in San Jose Dance Theatre Executive Director Elizabeth Sweeney's personal history. The Gilroy native's first production of the ballet was with the company when she was 8. Over those many years, she saw clearly why the holiday tradition is so beloved for ballet and non-ballet fans alike. 'The Nutcracker' is about Christmas, and you're following Clara on her journey,' said Sweeney, who noted her company's version is the second-longest-running production in California."
Tchaikovsky's score permeates December culture through films, commercials and genre transpositions, creating widespread familiarity with The Nutcracker. The ballet's staged narrative channels Clara's imagination into a dramatic battle between toy soldiers and mice, preserving its theatrical power. San Jose stages two major productions beginning Dec. 13: San Jose Dance Theatre with the Cambrian Symphony celebrates its 60th anniversary at the Center for Performing Arts through Dec. 21, while a separate San Jose Nutcracker, accompanied by Symphony San Jose, performs at the California Theatre through Dec. 23. The ballet functions as a familial, generational tradition anchored by long-running local company involvement and personal histories.
Read at The Mercury News
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