Smuin Contemporary Ballet returns November 22 – December 28 in The Christmas Ballet, its signature showcase of classical and contemporary dances set to festive tunes. Michael Smuin’s delightfully adaptable toast to the holidays features new works this year by first-time guest choreographers Julia Adam and Myles Thatcher, a soloist at San Francisco Ballet, as well as Smuin Artistic Director Amy Seiwert.
In addition to beloved classics by Smuin’s founder, the program includes fan favorites by Val Caniparoli, Nicole Haskins, Ben Needham-Wood and Rex Wheeler. Santa Baby will be there too, sauntering across the stage and inviting all to join in celebrating everything magical about the season.
The Christmas Ballet opens at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, November 22 – 23; followed by two shows at the Sunset Center in Carmel-by-the Sea, December 5 – 6; five shows at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, December 11 – 14; and, finally, ten shows at the Blue Shield of California Theater at YBCA in San Francisco, December 18 – 28.
“Michael Smuin’s original vision is alive and well, adapting beautifully over time,” said Seiwert. “More than a dozen guest choreographers have added contributions throughout the years. New commissions keep the ballet fresh, while beloved favorites evoke nostalgia. The past and future coexist in this celebration of the season.”
Smuin’s artistic staff will offer a pre-show talk at 1:15 p.m. before each Saturday matinee throughout the run. The company’s accessibility offerings include an ASL-interpreted performance on Friday, December 19 and a performance with audio description at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 21. Single tickets range from $25 to $120. For reservations visit smuinballet.org.
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