Here is this year’s round-up of South Sound Nutcracker Performances. Last year, we did see deals from group buying sites to the TCB show at the Pantages and the Evergreen City Ballet in Auburn. Unfortunately, I don’t have any way of predicting whether that will happen again. So, I’ll leave it to you to decide whether to spring for the best show you can afford or hold out in hopes of a deal.
Feel free to forward this list to little ballet lovers you know, and do let me know if you hear of a show you missed, or want to weigh in on your fav!
The Big One:
The most recognized area Nutcracker is the production put on by the Pacific Northwest Ballet in Seattle. It features gorgeous Maurice Sendak sets, and the dancing of nationally recognized ballerinas. I’m not going to dance around it: This is one spendy show. However, I know many moms who will say it’s worth it. Here’s my sister in law, Cindy, on the subject:
“Even though Pacific Northwest Ballet production is spendy, I think it is worth it. I have seen several lower cost productions in the area over the years. The exta bonuses you get with PNB 1) they have booster seats so you little ones can actually see the stage. They were nice, clean and cozy last time we needed one. 2) They have lovey props in the lobby. Large nutcracker and toy soldier statues and a stage replica. These are great for killing time before the show or great backdrops for your Christmas or Holiday cards. My girls loved dancing on the stage. 3) You can preoreder your cookie treat for intermission. No standing in line. Who wants that with kids. Some ticket packages come with cookies too. 4) The Sendak backdrops will remind you and your kids of their favorite stories and you can recall those fun memories when you read together later. 5) You can’t beat the special effects at PNB. No one has the awe of the growing tree and the lighting and the spectacular costumes. 6) It is more money but way more magic.”
As of this writing, there were some discounted performances available through ticket seller, Goldstar. These aren’t the cheapeset seats, but they’re a very good discount for decent seats. If you decide you’re doing this one, be sure to read their very informative guide to attending the PNB Nutcracker with children.
If you’re not sold on PNB, or you just don’t have that much jingle in your wallet, you might consider one of these local Nutcrackers.
South Puget Sound Nutcracker Performances 2011
Auburn/Renton-Evergreen City Ballet Performances in Auburn December 10th and 11th or Renton December 16th, 17th, and 18th. Adults are 29.00; students are 13.00. My friend Christy went to this one last year and raved about it. She thought the sets and performers were very professional, and the ballerinas came out after the show to mingle and pose for pictures. Last year, we did see a Groupon deal to this company.
Enumclaw–Plauteau Ballet Repretory Theater/The Dance Workshop Presents The Nutcracker December 9th-18th Tickets are 8.00 for seniors. 10.00 for children, and 12.00 for adults Matinee and evening shows
Fife–Ninth Avenue Company of Dance puts on performances the weekend of the 18th at the junior high school. Advance tickets are just 16.00 for adults and 12.00 for adults and seniors. You’ll pay 4.00 more at the door.
Tacoma-Tacoma City Ballet Performances at the Pantages the 1oth-21st. Tickets start at 19.00. If you haven’t been, the Pantages is beautiful. Leah Taff, of TCB wrote in with this plug last year. “Our Nutcracker is the only one in the area to be performed in a performing arts theater to live orchestral music”
Another Tacoma production performs at Stadium High School. This one is put on by Tacoma Performing Dance Company under the direction of local dance legend, Jo Emery. Shows December 17th and 18th. Tickets are 18.00 and 22.00.
Dance Theater Northwest performs in the Mt Tahoma Auditorium December 17th and 18th Regulr tickets 22.00-26.00 Half-off for children under 12 and seniors over 60. 10% military discount also available. I.D. required at the door.
Washington Contemporary Ballet presents the Nutcracker in the auditorium at Mt Tahoma December 21st and 22nd Tickets are 15.00 and 18.00
Olympia–Ballet Northwest performs at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts Shows the 9th-18th. Ticket prices range depending on seats. * Note that if you buy tickets online, the site has tickets for both this company and the Different Studio West Company below. Make sure you’re selecting the one you want, or call.
Bremerton–Peninsula Dance Theater performs The Nutcracker December 2nd, 3rd, and 4th at the high school performing arts center. Tickets are 12-18.00.
If you decide to take in a performance, you should definitely find a book version of the story first. Children will be so much more engaged if they understand what is happening.
I would also urge you to consider your child’s age and personality. While some will sit enthralled through the whole thing, others will get wiggly in less than one dance, and that would really be a waste of money. If you’re primarily looking for an “all dressed up,” photo op. you might try the Seymour Conservatory which makes for a festive and ornate looking pic. this time of year.
Know a great show I missed? Think my post wasn’t on pointe? Let me know-just make sure it’s tutu much fun! New here? I write about affordable family fun for the South Sound. You’ll find tons to explore in the menu at the top of the page, and new ideas Every Single Day! Like SFM on Facebook, or subscribe to my feed or reader, so you don’t miss a think!