By Lina Broydo
Smuin’s Christmas Ballet Spreads Magic Throughout the Bay Area
December 11 – 14 in Mountain View; December 18 – 28 in San Francisco
One of the best professional ballet companies in the Bay Area whose extremely talented dancers, choreographers, costume and sets designers perfectly reflect the vision, creativity, teachings and the inspiration of its founder the late Michael Smuin. My cultural life was enriched by meeting Smuin in person in San Jose, while he staged a ballet in partnership with the award winning choreographer Dennis Nahat of San Jose/Cleveland Ballet Company in San Jose.
I am always eagerly awaiting to see the Smuin’s annual Christmas Ballet production and this year they did not disappoint. The dancers are well trained and superbly rehearsed, and it’s a pleasure to watch their playful interpretation of the 28 ballet selections, especially those reflecting the holiday spirit. They are absolutely magnificent. Thanks Amy Seiwert, the company’s Artistic Director.
I am looking forward to their spring programing: “Spring Point” (February 13 – 15); “Future Forward” (April 17 – May 17) as well as save the date for their Gala 2026 on March 15, 2026 at the San Francisco Design Center.
Happy Holidays!
Information: smuinballet.org
Photo courtesy of Lina Broydo
San Francisco Symphony Welcomes Charlie Brown
December 21 & 22, at 2pm and 7:30pm on both dates
The ever popular A Charlie Brown Christmas – LIVE returns to Davies Symphony Hall with conductor Ming Luke leading the San Francisco Symphony and Chorus in four performances that bring the classic Christmas animated TV special to life. The presentation features Vince Guaraldi’s delightful score, an animated backdrop, as well as singers, actors, and dancers that embody Charles Schulz’s beloved Peanuts characters.
Hot news: John M.Chu, the award winning Hollywood Director of the “Wicked” movies fame, just announced his next movie will be about the famous Charles Schultz “Peanuts” (you heard it here first!)
The first half of the program features selections and medleys from Vince Guaraldi’s full Peanuts catalogue, celebrating 60 years of his music for Charlie Brown and the 75th anniversary of Peanuts. Your kids and the kids in you will love it! I’ll be there!
Information
415-864-6000
Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco
Photos courtesy of SF Symphony
“San Jose Nutcracker” from New Ballet and Symphony San Jose
December 13 – 23, 2025 in San Jose
The architecturally stunning California Theater in Downtown San Jose is the glamorous stage for presenting a new and innovative version of the worldwide famous and most popular “Nutcracker” ballet.
For a local twist: The San Jose Nutcracker is a joyful holiday production that transports the well-loved story to turn-of-the-century San Jose, with historical references that highlight our valley setting as a birthplace of innovations.
What else to expect from the capital of Silicon Valley, the world’s gateway to innovations?? Another fabulous interpretation we expect in San Jose, with a productive partnership between art and creativity.
Bravo to all involved!
Information
California Theater Downtown San Jose
Photos courtesy of Symphony San Jose and New Ballet
Welcome to the London of Charles Dickens
Now through December 21, 2025
Step into the story and join the play. As you enter the “Dickensian Streets,’ it is Christmas Eve in Old London. Stroll around and observe the colorful displays of artful surroundings with talented and friendly entertainers. Raise a toast to the season’s joyful celebrations.
Then make your way to the appealing eating establishments, shops and music and dance halls. Wave to the tireless Mr. Charles Dickens as he circulates to his next spirited reading. And should you encounter Mr. Scrooge, be sure to greet him with a hearty “Merry Christmas!”
He will love it!
Information: dickensfair.com;
Inside the Cow Palace Exhibition Halls in Daily City;
Photos courtesy of Lina Broydo
Iconic Burning Man Sculpture Finds a Permanent Home at Filoli
There is a fascinating new addition to the Filoli’s stunning estate in Woodside,
- Welcome Rose Wonders, a troll sculpture created by the internationally acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo. Crouching at 27 feet tall, Rose Wonders is the largest troll ever created by Thomas Dambo. Crafted primarily from recycled pallet wood and adorned with branches woven into her hair, she depicts a young girl curiously studying a tiny human perched on her finger, pondering what it means to be human. Visitors are invited to step into her world, climbing a hidden staircase through her cascading locks and up into her hands for a face-to-face. A visit to the grand Filoli estate, especially now as it sparkles and shines with the beauty of the holiday season’s decorations, illumination, and the Holiday Tea (my favorite!) champagne and the fab delicacies – all presented in the inviting ambience, is always a beautifully priceless experience. “Following the incredible response to TROLLS: Save the Humans, we’re thrilled to welcome Rose Wonders to her permanent home in the Filoli forest,” said Kara Newport, President & CEO of Filoli. “Her presence in our redwood grove continues the story we began this summer—one that invites people to explore, imagine and discover the beauty of the natural world. Rose is more than a sculpture; she invites you to join her in her wonder of nature and inspire anyone who crosses her path. Her installation complements Filoli’s mission to create immersive experiences that foster connection with the natural environment.”
Visiting the gorgeous historic Filoli Estate during the holiday season should be on every family’s itinerary!
For more information, visit filoli.org/rose-wonders.
Photos courtesy of Filoli
Brilliant Musicians Start the New Year Celebration on a Happy Note
San José Chamber Orchestra presents “CELEBRATION”
New Years Eve, Wednesday, Dec 31 at 3:00pm
Conductor Maestra Barbara Day Turner with the SJ Chamber Orchestra, pianist Jon Nakamatsu, cellist Evan Kahn, and clarinetists Jon and Alec Manasse are celebrating by bidding farewell to 2025. What a fun way to celebrate New Years Eve and still get home before the tipsy drivers take the roads? San José Chamber Orchestra is bringing its musical farewell to Saint Francis Episcopal, 1205 Pine Avenue in San José.
With a wonderful program of music by Offenbach, Svant Henryson, Martin Fröst, Beethoven, Copland, and Michael Touchi the world famous musicians will make it a festive afternoon in the heart of Silicon Valley. Followed by a bubbly toast and reception. Happy Holidays!
Information: https://sjco.org/ or email sjcorch@gmail.com; 408.295.4416
Box Office: sjcorch@gmail.com. Also available at the door; Tickets are $65 to $85 with student prices at $20 to $30.
Photos courtesy of the artists and SJCO.
