The Nutcracker debuted in Russia in 1892. England was the first country outside of Russia to perform the iconic ballet, almost forty years after its premiere. It slowly began making its way across the globe, entertaining San Franciscans ten years later and New Yorkers ten years after that. It did not truly gain world wide popularity until it was on a New York City Stage in 1954. Even then it wasn’t until the 1990s that it became associated with Christmas as it is today.
This is the first time we have been to the Nutcracker, choosing Downey Theater since Eric has fond memories of coming here with his mom as a small child. Although the performance was delightful, one of our favorite aspects didn’t come from the dancers but the orchestra pit. The musicians were so incredible that even in all black, attempting to camouflage, they were distracting our attention from the stage. Now we know for next year when deciding where to see this classic Christmas story that a live orchestra is mandatory.
What a gorgeous setting with some gorgeous theatergoers! I remember when I took my older son to The Nutcracker (when he was about 7), I forgot to tell him that there would be no words. He’s a vocal guy and that really upset him. Wild memories. A1 looks perfect as a patron of the arts. Very, very cool.
Ha. A1 loved it. We look forward to this becoming a tradition.