Illustration of a generic entertainment scene (The Nutcracker for Kids)
Christmas Shows

The Nutcracker for Kids

Audiences experience a narrated adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet performed by Pacific Symphony and dancers from the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School. The performance follows Clara's journey to the Land of Sweets to meet the Mouse King, the Nutcracker, and the Sugar Plum Fairy, accompanied by image magnification on a big screen. Visitors can also enjoy lobby activities including coloring stations, hands-on games, and photo opportunities.

What to Expect

Narrated ballet adaptation featuring American Ballet Theatre school dancers and Pacific Symphony.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children ages 5 and up

Vibe

Festive and family-friendly

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

None

Location

Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Laguna, CA

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: Concerts: 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM. Lobby activities begin at 9:00 a.m. for the 10:00 a.m. concert and 12:15 p.m. for the 11:30 a.m. concert.

Tips & Advice

  • Get a ticket for every person attending, including children, because all concertgoers need a ticket for entry.
  • Arrive in time to enjoy the lobby activities offered before each concert session.
  • Consider the recommended age of five and up when deciding whether the family performance suits your child.
  • Use the big-screen image magnification to get a closer look at the dancers and musicians.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Two concert sessions are offered on December 5.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this performance designed for?

Family Musical Mornings are for the whole family, with recommended ages of five and up. Every attendee needs a ticket, regardless of age.

What happens during the lobby activities?

The concert hall lobby has hands-on games, coloring stations and festive photo opportunities for children and families.

What story does the performance follow?

This narrated adaptation follows Clara’s journey to the Land of Sweets, where she encounters the Mouse King, the Nutcracker and the Sugar Plum Fairy.

How does the performance help audiences see the dancers and musicians?

Image magnification on a big screen provides a closer look at the dancers and musicians.

Who performs the music and dances?

Pacific Symphony performs, with conductor Moon Doh and dancers from the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School, led by artistic director Susan Brooker.

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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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team