UKIAH, CA., 12/13/25 – “The Nutcracker” is returning to Mendocino Ballet this year for its 40th anniversary of the beloved holiday show.
Mendocino Ballet’s rendition of The Nutcracker will open Friday, Dec. 19 at the Mendocino College Center Theater, 1000 Hensley Creek Road, Ukiah.
“For four decades, families have gathered with us to experience the magic of The Nutcracker, and we are honored to share this milestone season with our community,” according to a flier for the event.
Esther Hansen, director of Mendocino Ballet and choreographer of the show, said the performance allows local dancers to show their training and creativity through traditional choreography.
Hansen said that once the performance date arrives, the dancers usually feel accomplished because they have made it to this stage of the long process.
“We get to feel like a team and a family, and when you finally make it to that point, it connects you to your fellow dancers and teachers. It makes you feel accomplished as a team,” Hansen emphasized. “I also think it helps with confidence.”
The Nutcracker cast largely comprises dancers ages 8 to 18. Hansen said while the performance includes a few older dancers, most are young people enrolled in the Mendocino Ballet School, a year-round program that runs from August to May and offers classes in ballet, modern, and Pilates.
Hansen, who has danced her entire life and performed in several Nutcracker productions, said this is her first time directing and choreographing the piece. She said that she enjoys working with young dancers from the local community and bringing her own creativity to the storyline.
“Working with young dancers is super fun because they bring so much energy and excitement,” she added. “I also love collaborating with other people’s ideas to make the story well-rounded and connecting, to bring things full circle.”
Mendocino Ballet will perform The Nutcracker at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 19-20, at the Mendocino College Center Theater. Matinee performances will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20-21, at the same venue. Tickets range from $18 to $30 and can be purchased by clicking this link.