Dance-Along Nutcracker®

A Festive, Family-Friendly Nutcracker Where You Get to Be Part of the Show!

Production of the San Francisco Pride Band

Dance-Along Nutcracker® 2024 - Mission: Nutcracker

A mystery is afoot and only you can help solve it!

The grand prize for the Stahlbaum Family’s Holiday Talent Show has been stolen, and junior detective Clara and spy-in-training Fritz are on the case! Track clues, investigate suspects, and dodge spy traps alongside Clara and Fritz to help uncover the culprit and recover the stolen trophy – the Golden Nutcracker.

You’ll waltz! You’ll march! You’ll pirouette! You’ll sing along! Through it all, you’ll enjoy music from The Nutcracker ballet, performed live by the 75-piece San Francisco Pride Band, the Official Band of San Francisco!

Part comedy musical, part dance-it-yourself ballet, and part symphonic concert, the Dance-Along Nutcracker features the holiday fun and tradition you’ve come to expect from this San Francisco favorite.

Tickets

Reserve your spot on the Stahlbaum Family Holiday Party guest list by purchasing tickets below. There are four identical showings at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Forum (map ): Saturday, December 7 at 3pm & 7pm, Sunday, December 8 at 11am & 3pm.

If you have a promo/coupon code, you can enter it later during checkout.

Having trouble with the ticketing application above? Visit the standalone ticketing site

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

Event Sponsors

Michael L. Mehr

Morgan Lewis logo

Larry K. Hetrick, M.D. 

Moira Wilmes & Denni Harp

Todorthodontics Smile Studio logo

Organization & Media Sponsors

San Francisco Bay Times logo in color
Betty's List logo in color
Grants for the Arts logo in color

Want to make a difference? Support the band as a sponsor! Learn about our sponsorship opportunities

Performers & Cast

San Francisco Pride Band at the SF Pride Parade in 2019

San Francisco Pride Band

Founded in 1978 by Jon Sims at the height of Anita Bryant’s anti-gay crusade and credited as the first openly-gay music organization in the world, the San Francisco Pride Band has inspired the formation of many LGBTQ+ choruses and performing troupes world-wide. Named the “Official Band of San Francisco” in 2018, the band has promoted visibility and built understanding between gay and non-gay communities through public musical performances for 45 years.

Each year, the band presents its award-winning Community Concert Series, its beloved fun-filled holiday production, Dance-Along Nutcracker, and performs at numerous parades and civic events throughout the Bay Area, with Artistic Directors Pete Nowlen and Mike Wong.

Learn more about the San Francisco Pride Band

Alix Feinsod headshot

Alix Leslee Feinsod Guerrero

as Clara

Alix is a performer and teacher based in Oakland. Alix has been performing in musicals around the Bay Area all her life with Stagedoor, YMTC, The Marsh, and The Thrillpeddlers. She has also written and directed plays with her students. In past years, Alix designed costumes for the Magic Theater and other companies. She is so excited to be in her fifth Dance Along Nutcracker!

Gayle Why headshot

Gayle Why

as Fritz

Gayle Why (they/them) is a multidisciplinary nebula. Their passion for verisimilitude ranges from whimsical fantasy to gritty horror, and they’ve performed on stages, screens, the internet, and the occasional dive bar.  Outside of acting, they sustain themselves on TTRPGs and boba.

Zelda Koznofski headshot

Zelda Koznofski

as Drosselmeyer

Zelda Koznofski is a singer/composer/actor. Zelda records and releases original music as well as scores for original film and stage productions with band Gelb Rot Blau and performs at SF’s premier nightclub Oasis in drag parodies and musicals. Favorite roles include Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in Star Trek Live, Rupert Giles in Buffy The Vampire Slayer Live, Judy Garland in Tuck’n’ Roll Players’ Club, and – of course – Clara, Fritz, and/or Drosselmeyer in Dance Along Nutcracker!

Actor Cameron Eng headshot

Cameron Eng

as James

Cameron Eng has been a producer, designer and performer in the Bay Area for 25+ years, known for his work in theater, film and theatrical events with countless local companies from grass roots, drag activism, to screen-to-the-stage adaptations from his company Foul Play, to the racy grand guignol of the Thrillpeddlers, and the musical machinations of Drunk Drag Broadway.  The Dance Along Nutcracker has a deeply special place in his heart, and thanks to the San Francisco Pride Band for this opportunity to return. He owes everything to his brilliant husband and partner in crime of 25 years, Terrance Alan.

Marilyn Fowler headshot

Marilynn Fowler

Louise & Choreographer

Marilynn Fowler returns for her eighth season with the Dance-Along Nutcracker. She began dancing simultaneously with Page Hodel’s Box Dance Troupe and Voice Farm’s Oblong Rhonda. Her choreography credits include The Cool Ones, Way Out West, Hillbillies on the Moon, Rocky Horror Superstar, Rocket Girl, License to Kiss, The Untamed Stage, Club Inferno, and Cyberotica. She has worked with the Sick & Twisted Players, the Tuck & Roll Players, Artfull Circle Theatre, Teatro Zinzanni, the Thrillpeddlers, and countless drag luminaries. Her dance inspirations are James Brown and Ann-Margret.

Allen Sawyer headshot

Allen Sawyer

Cast Director

Allen Sawyer is a San Francisco-based playwright and director. He began his theatre career at the legendary Valencia Rose and also performed stand up at the Rose’s revolutionary Gay Comedy Open Mic. Collaborating with John F. Karr, Sawyer created several musicals at Theatre Rhinoceros, notably Talking to the Sun, Dirty Dreams of a Clean Cut Kid, and Some Men Do. With the ArtFul Circle Theatre Sawyer helmed Jungle Red, Those Damn Calla Lilies, Christmas with the Crawfords, Way Out West, and Women’s Prison Christmas. He wrote and directed Gross Indulgences: The Trials of Liberace and Whatever Happened to Sister George. For his troupe the Hot Pants Homo Players, Sawyer penned a trilogy of plays, inspired by pulp paperbacks. Sawyer has directed shows at Theatre Rhinoceros, The New Conservatory Theatre Center, Feinstein’s at The Nikko, and many other San Francisco venues.

Artistic director Pete Nowlen wearing a rainbow tie

Pete Nowlen

Artistic Director

Appointed Artistic Director of the San Francisco Pride Band in August 2013, Pete Nowlen is one of Northern California’s busiest musicians. He is the founder and driving force behind Sacramento’s VITA Academy, dedicated to revitalizing classical music through innovative community and audience engagement and school music programs. Other conducting credits includes the Sacramento, Auburn, Camellia, UCD and CSUS Symphonies and more than a dozen major productions ranging from La bohéme to The Rocky Horror Show.

Pete was a member of the French horn section of the Sacramento Symphony for 10 years. He has performed with the San Francisco Symphony, Opera, and Ballet Orchestras, served as co-principal hornist of the International Orchestra of Italy, and has been a prize winner and finalist in international solo competitions.

Steve Bolinger headshot

Steve Bolinger

Music Director

Steven Bolinger is a San Francisco-based multi-instrumentalist and composer. He has contributed his talents to the musical productions of D’Arcy Drollinger/Oasis Nightclub Cabaret (“SQREAM”, “Golden Girls Live”, “Above and Beyond the Valley of the Ultra-Showgirls”), Ray of Light Theatre (“Rocky Horror”, “Hedwig and the Angry Inch”), Peaches Christ Productions (“Showgirls: The Musical”). He composed original music for the film “Sh*t & Champagne” and Third Cloud from the Left stage productions “The Mariner” and “Putas Asesinas”, co-wrote songs for the original stage musical “Dernier Cri”, and produced parody pop hits for web series “Hot Trash”. Steve has released dozens of albums of original music, including his latest release, “Sabir”, which you can hear at stevenbolinger.com

Todd Young headshot

Todd Young

Art Props

Todd Young is a masterful fabricator renowned for his exceptional work in crafting one-of-a-kind props and set pieces for the “Dance-Along Nutcracker,” where he has been an integral part of the production for several years. His artistic prowess extends beyond the dance floor, as Todd is the creative force behind the monthly “Security Gate” installation at 220 Page Street. This ongoing project has amassed an impressive collection of over 100 installations, showcasing Todd’s ability to transform spaces into captivating visual experiences. Recognized for his artistic contributions, Todd holds the esteemed position of number 23 on the list of “23 Extraordinary Things to Do in SF’s Hayes Valley” by Secret San Francisco. To catch a glimpse of his artistic journey and latest creations, enthusiasts can follow him on Instagram under the username @thegateguysf. Todd Young’s imaginative touch continues to leave a lasting impression on the vibrant arts and culture scene in San Francisco.

Raphael Buenaventura headshot

Raphael Buenaventura

Stage Manager

Raphael Buenaventura is honored to rejoin the San Francisco Pride Band’s Production Team in its annual production of Dance-Along Nutcracker after having first stage-managed its return in 2022. Raphael is a Los-Angeles transplant, having relocated to the Bay Area in August 2022. His previous acting work in Los Angeles include La Cage Aux Folles at The Long Beach Playhouse, Ben & George in The Hollywood Fringe Festival, and Kenny in Fil-Am (2022), a short film directed by Tony Marquez, produced by VisionRey. Since moving to the Bay, he resumed involvement in theatre through stage and production management, working with Crescent Moon Theatre Productions, San Francisco Pride Band, Sarah Bush Dance Project, Left Coast Theatre Company, Fuse Theatre, and currently with Phoenix Arts. His most recent acting work include a staged-reading with Theatre Rhinoceros and a stage performance with Bindlestiff Studio’s Queer as F*ck. When not juggling with work, Raphael spends his time with his 10-year old puppy, Trixie, who has been a long-time constant in his life. E-mail Raphael for work and collaborations: rsd.buenaventura@gmail.com

What is Dance-Along Nutcracker?

A one-of-a-kind holiday experience that reimagines Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet in an entirely refreshing way!

Every year, the San Francisco Pride Band brilliantly infuses the beloved The Nutcracker ballet with a fresh and delightful theme, creating an original musical production like no other. Packed with humor, artistic flair, and high-energy performances, the show blends live music, dance, and theater to captivate audiences of all ages.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! When the iconic “Dance Along!” cue appears, attendees are invited to join the fun, donning colorful tutus and taking center stage alongside the performers. Whether you’re twirling in the aisles or enjoying the spectacle from your seat, it’s a heartwarming and joyous celebration you won’t forget.

Experience the joy and excitement of Dance-Along Nutcracker, a one-of-a-kind celebration that combines entertainment and audience participation for an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family.

Children dancing and having fun under the mirror ball at Dance-Along Nutcracker
Trumpet section in costume as the Weasley family from Dance-Along Nutcracker 2018
The audience dances during Dance-Along Nutcracker 2014: Frosty's Hawaiian Holiday
Actors playing Clara and Fritz discuss all the exciting things they'll learn at Fogwarts Academy in Dance-Along Nutcracker 2018

See what others are saying about the show!

Inspired foolishness, tomfoolery on a grand and witty scale!C.W. Nevius, San Francisco Chronicle

It’s fun, it’s affordable and it’s uniquely San Francisco. This isn’t your grandma’s stuffy old Nutcracker…Traci Vaughn, Milk + Fog

One of the city’s most delightfully idiosyncratic events.Wall Street Journal

Oh my God – it’s the best thing in the world! It’s the best holiday event there is!Dance-Along Nutcracker Attendee since 1998

Beautifully unexpected and witty!Dance-Along Nutcracker Attendee

I’m gonna tell my friends that I went to the Nutcracker and it’s not embarrassing at all to wear a tutu as a boy!Dance-Along Nutcracker Attendee, 7-years old

Thank you for an amazing afternoon and a new family tradition.Dance-Along Nutcracker Attendee

What to Expect at Dance-Along Nutcracker

Music treble clef on a purple background

Music from The Nutcracker Performed Live

Enjoy live music featuring a mix of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, pop tunes, movie scores, and Broadway musical favorites!

Comedy and tragedy theater masks on a purple background

An Original Musical Theatre Production

Experience a brand new scripted show each year with an entertaining theme and captivating storyline creatively woven around the beloved characters of the holiday favorite The Nutcracker ballet.

Silhouettes of two children dancing holding hands on. purple background

Step Into the Story and Dance Along

Celebrate the holidays and dance along with us! Get out of your seat, put on your tutu, and pirouette under the mirror ball to the music of The Nutcracker Suite!

Kids sitting in the front row watching Dance-Along Nutcracker actors perform

For kids

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The ideal family-friendly live-music concert, perfect for energetic children who might find sitting through a traditional Nutcracker ballet performance challenging.

For adults

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The best way to feel like a kid again, as you tug on a tutu and twirl to the “Waltz of the Flowers”, or simply sit back and revel in the show’s witty dialogue and humor while people-watching!

Adults wearing tutus are having fun dancing at Dance-Along Nutcracker
Families dancing to the Nutcracker Suite ballet music

For the entire family

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Enjoy this light-hearted, humorous and uniquely San Francisco show as a family, and create lasting holiday memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Show History

Discover the vibrant history of this beloved San Francisco holiday tradition, which began in 1985 as a fundraiser for the LGBTQ+ community. Today, it stands as the signature event of the San Francisco Pride Band!

Spawned from the imaginative spirit of the “Sing-It Yourself Messiah” and first directed by Band conductor Jay Kast, Dance-Along Nutcracker has garnered national attention, being featured on NPR’s All Things Considered, The Wall Street Journal, and even The Today Show, among others.

Embodying the mission of the San Francisco Pride Band to promote LGBTQ+ visibility and build bridges through public performances, Dance-Along Nutcracker remains a beacon of inclusive celebration and joy.

Explore our gallery below for a nostalgic journey through Dance-Along Nutcracker program covers, dating back to our inaugural show in 1985! Dive deeper into our history with full PDF programs available in the San Francisco Pride Band’s Program Archive .

Health and Safety at the Show

Visitors to Yerba Buena Center for the Arts must comply with the health and safety requirements which are summarized below, but could change depending on local health conditions.

Masks are strongly recommended but not required while indoors. Proof of vaccination or a negative test are not required to enter, but in conjunction with SFDPH, YBCA encourages everyone to get vaccinated and boosted for their own health and for the well-being of the community.

The San Francisco Pride Band takes Covid-19 seriously. For more information, see the band’s full Health & Safety Plan .