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The show was great, classic. The Mayor opened the show, declaring it Nutcracker Day in Oakland. The only negative was the long lines for the restroom, as usual!
Different version -- trying too hard. My family and I didn't feel that this performance delivered the spirit of the story and the music. Our children (11 and 9) wondered if we went to the "wrong place." The stage and wardrobe colors were dull and somber, the music lacked ooompphhh, the stage seemed like a bad dream of candy-land and not all dancers belonged in the major leagues. As far as the music goes, the percussion and the strings were off-tempo at times, and the dancers landed/finished their routines at off-beats. The percussion section of the ballet orchestra is the largest and plays a big role in maintaining the rhythm of the music and dancers -- the child's rattle did not evoke the playful emotions that it should. We were disappointed, and will most likely go back to the SF Ballet @ War Memorial (as we have the last 7 years) to continue this family tradition. We gave it a shot - we wanted to try something different, and we discovered that we like a more classical interpretation and direction of this beautiful piece. Kudos for brining The Nutcracker to Oakland. I am sure that the price/value will attract early adaptors and one-time ballet goers, but will likely disappoint seasoned ballet goes. Best wishes, Merry Christmas
Delightful. Beautifully danced throughout. Lighthearted first act actually kept me awake. No more dreary Victorian era stuffiness. Kids playing, parents enjoying and chasing, having their own fun as well. With many nods to tradition, Graham Lustig has brought Nutcracker forward with something for everyone. His sprightly and fresh choreography is often challenging but the dancers were up to it. Charming bits for many, many children who were perfectly rehearsed yet looked to be having a good time. How wonderful to have the live music. It went by so fast, I couldn't believe when the joyous finale began. I thought I'd seen enough Nutcrackers to last the rest of my life, but I'd go back to see this one. Take the whole family.
