A HOLIDAY CLASSIC FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

PERFORMANCE DATES

Thursday, December 17 at 7:30pm
Friday, December 18 at 7:30pm
Saturday, December 19 at 2pm* & 7:30pm
Sunday, December 20 at 1pm & 5:30pm
Tuesday, December 22 at 1pm* & 5:30pm
Wednesday, December 23 at 1pm* & 5:30pm

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Recommended ages 3 and up. Show runs 2 hours and 10 minutes, with one intermission.
*Denotes Family- and Sensory-Friendly Matinee

Golden State Ballet is delighted to offer three ways to secure your tickets to San Diego’s favorite holiday tradition:

Don’t miss this premier ballet event—buy your tickets today! Learn more about our ticket policies here.

Accessibility is a priority. Wheelchair and handicap services are available. Learn more here.

Please note: 

  • Refunds and exchanges are not available for Nutcracker ticket purchases.

  • Metal detectors will be used for all performances. 

  • Please arrive early for your selected performance to allow extra time to go through metal detectors and find your seat comfortably.

  • Limited late seating.

THE NUTCRACKER | December 17-23, 2026
San Diego Civic Theatre & San Diego Symphony

Golden State Ballet proudly presents THE NUTCRACKER at the Civic Theatre, featuring the marvelous choreography of Artistic Director, Raúl Salamanca! Step into a world of wonder as dazzling scenery and exquisite costumes bring Clara’s enchanting journey with her Nutcracker Prince to life. This beloved holiday tale is set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, performed live by the world-renowned San Diego Symphony. Prepare to be swept away by the magic of San Diego’s favorite holiday tradition—an experience you won’t want to miss!

Run time: 2 hours 10 minutes, including one intermission.

This season, we are also proud to offer three Family- and Sensory-Friendly Matinee performances designed to make the magic of The Nutcracker more accessible to all audiences. These performances are thoughtfully adapted for guests who benefit from a more relaxed theater environment, including young children and individuals with sensory sensitivities.

To create a gentler experience, these matinees are presented without live accompaniment from the San Diego Symphony, with recorded orchestral music played at a reduced volume. House adjustments—including softened production elements and a more flexible audience environment—help ensure a welcoming and comfortable experience while preserving the beauty and storytelling of the ballet.

These specially designated performances are available at a reduced rate, reflecting our commitment to accessibility and expanding the joy of live dance for every member of our community.

 

MUSIC
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky
-
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
conducted by John Stubbs,
Music Director & Principal Conductor
and Dana Zimbric, Conductor

VENUE
THE CIVIC THEATRE
San Diego, California

SEASON SPONSOR
San Diego Theatres
The Hermann Foundation

 

Photos: Sam Zauscher