Once Upon A Nutcracker
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Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Once Upon A Nutcracker

Discover the magic of The Nutcracker with 'Once Upon A Nutcracker,' a special, abbreviated production by San Jose Dance Theatre. Designed specifically for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children, this enchanting performance offers a delightful introduction to the beloved ballet. Experience key excerpts of the full production in an engaging, approximately 55-minute show, perfect for young attention spans.

What to Expect

Abbreviated Nutcracker for young children

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Parking: Groups have enjoyed bringing lunches and eating outside the CPA after the performance, weather permitting.
  • Accessibility: Groups with requests for special needs students (e.g., near an exit or aisle) should note this when submitting their reservation form.
  • Pets: Service animals welcome

Other Christmas Events Near San Jose

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Enchanting, educational, family-friendly

Energy Level

Low

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (3/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Special Events & Promotions

  • Special abbreviated production for young children
  • Educational presentation about ballet included
  • Nutcracker boutique for souvenirs

Tags

balletfamily friendlychildrens activitiestheaterholiday entertainmentThe Nutcrackerseasonal activitiescommunity celebration

Featured Video

Location

Center for the Performing Arts
255 S. Almaden Blvd
San Jose, CA
95113

Event Details

Duration

Approximately 55 minutes

Ages

All ages are welcome; specifically designed for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children, ages 0-10 years.

Neighborhood

Downtown San Jose

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

San Jose Dance Theatre

Food & Drink

Nutcracker boutique open for souvenir purchases; groups have brought lunches to eat outside.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to ensure your group gets the best available seating, as it is assigned upon arrival.
  • While this performance does not feature a live orchestra, consider purchasing tickets to their full-length performances for that experience.
  • Plan for post-performance activities; groups often bring lunches to enjoy outdoors at the Center for the Performing Arts.
  • Note any special seating needs for students when submitting your reservation form to ensure a comfortable experience.
  • Tickets are managed by San Jose Theaters and the Center for Performing Arts; check back for a direct purchase link as they go on sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the full performance of The Nutcracker?

No, this is an abbreviated version, approximately 55 minutes long, designed for younger audiences.

Can I buy tickets directly from SJDT?

Tickets are managed by San Jose Theaters and the Center for Performing Arts. Check back for a purchase link as they go on sale soon.

Where will my school group be seated?

Groups are seated as they arrive. Note any special needs for students (e.g., near an exit) on your reservation form.

Is there a live orchestra for the school show?

No, but full-length performances with a live orchestra are available for purchase separately.

Can we stay to eat lunch after the performance?

Yes, groups often bring lunches to enjoy outside the Center for the Performing Arts, weather permitting.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 2, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

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