Dance-Along Nutcracker: A family-friendly, interactive holiday show in San Francisco

Production of the San Francisco Pride Band

Rats and Fairies and Nutcrackers, Oh My!

It’s the Stahlbaum’s Annual Holiday Party, and Uncle Drosselmeyer weaves a tale for Clara and Fritz about a legendary School for Holiday Magic. Madam Sugarplum rules the school with an iron fist, imposing limits and restrictions on the student body under the direction of the Great and Powerful Nutcracker. Can Mac, a new student with unusual rat-like features, learn to work with his bubbly dormmate Ross to save the school and the holidays?

You’ll waltz! You’ll march! You’ll pirouette! You’ll sing along! Through it all, you’ll enjoy music from The Nutcracker ballet, Wicked, The Wizard of Oz, and The Wiz, 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 of 40 years.

What is Dance-Along Nutcracker?
Performers and cast
Health and safety
Become a sponsor

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 6 at 3pm & 7pm, Sunday, December 7 at 11am & 3pm.

If you have a promo/coupon code, you can enter it later during checkout. Promo codes cannot be used on “Ticket Bundles”.

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

Special Thanks to Our 2025 Sponsors

Event Sponsors

Michael L. Mehr

Krista Hennig

Sally Canjura-Clayton

Moira Wilmes & Denni Harp

Ian Gerrard

Joel Shapiro

Organization & Media Sponsors

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

SF Pride Band plays on the field at Oracle Park for LGBT Night with the Giants

SF Pride Band at their 40th Anniversary Concert

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 over 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.

Learn more about the San Francisco Pride Band

Landyn Endo
as Ross
Landyn (he/they) is a queer, transmasculine-of-center actor, dancer and circus performer, specializing in aerial/acrobatics. He graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a double major in Dance and Drama. Since graduating, they have enjoyed dancing professionally in LA and on tour with Multiplex Dance Company, helping to found the West Hollywood Dance Festival. He also had the opportunity to perform in Europe with DTM2 Improvisational Ensemble, Off-Broadway in NYC, and in Japan in “Dreaming Forward,” an artistic collaboration with choreographer Motoko Hirayama, as well as teaching dance for two years in Grenada. They have been an instructor of circus, dance, and gymnastics for over 18 years. Landyn is a proud member of Flying Rabbit Circus, Bow and Arrow Circus Collective and People’s Circus Theatre. He currently teaches at the SF Circus Center and at VRV3, and has a deep passion for encouraging queer and trans youth to find their voice through movement and art. Find them on IG @smooth_landyn
Angelo Giusti
as Mac/Uncle Max
Angelo Giusti (he/they) has been described as an actor, musician, and nightlife cryptid. Starring in everything from San Francisco's Gay All Male Review "Baloney", Peaches Christ's "Troop Beverly Heels", to Media Meltdown's "Select Thine Own Journey". Per their namesake, Angelo Giusti exudes a mischievous cherub-like energy. You can listen to their original music under the artist name, Another Bard. @anotherbard on instagram
Alix Feinsod Guerrero
as Clara/Ruby
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 sixth Dance Along Nutcracker!
Zelda Koznofski
as Stahlbaum/Madame Sugarplum
Zelda is a singer/composer/actor who records and releases original music as well as scores for original film and stage productions with band Gelb Rot Blau. She has performed onstage in a great many drag parodies and musicals in roles including Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy in Star Trek Live, Rupert Giles in Buffy The Vampire Slayer Live, Judy Garland in Thrillpeddlers’ Club Inferno, and - of course: Clara, Fritz, Drosselmeyer - you name it, in Dance Along Nutcracker!
Evan Kaminsky
as Uncle Drosselmeyer
This is Evan’s fifth Nutcracker. Previous roles include Clara’s Dad/Fagrid in Clara Potter, Aurora Borealis in Nutcracker in Space and Drosselmeyer the Pumpkin King in Nutmare Before Christmas. Evan has been a bay area stage and screen actor and singer for thirty years. Most recently he can be seen throughout Santa Clara County as Ragnar The Terrible for Star One Credit Union’s newest campaign. Evan is also San Francisco’s Beauty and Grooming Guru and owner of Oui, Three Queens Productions (www.ouithreequeens.com) where he provides Skin Care, Waxing, Grooming and Makeup Artistry for all bodies and all genders. “The Best Bear to Make You Bare! (Down There!)”
Remi Sunshine
as Fritz/Franklin
Remi Sunshine is a singing drag king (Glitter Daddy) and karaoke host, who daylights as a psychotherapist in private practice. This is their second time performing in the Dance Along Nutcracker after being in the ensemble of Clara Potter and the Elder Baton in 2018. While their theater background is in Shakespearean acting, they are happiest when they get to sing and dance! They are a longtime member of the Queer Chorus of San Francisco, where they have earnestly exhibited their classical kazoo training, song parody writing, and amateur choreographer skills. In addition to performing, they worked backstage at Oasis as a stage manager for Harry Poofter and the Chamber of Secretions. Remi is also very pro-rat and fosters orphaned baby squirrels with Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife rescue (please be kind to rodents!).
Allen Sawyer
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.
Cast Director
Michael J. Wong
Guest Conductor
Michael J. Wong is the first Artistic Director of the Marching & Pep Bands for the San Francisco Pride Band. A third generation San Franciscan, Mike joined the Band in 1998 while he was a teenager studying physics and music at U.C. Berkeley. He has literally grown up in the Band taking on the roles of Horn Section Manager, Music Librarian, Drum Major, and volunteer Marching Director and Assistant Conductor, before being appointed to the position of Artistic Director of the Marching & Pep Bands in 2016.

This will be Michael's 25th Dance-Along-Nutcracker. His first (in 1998!) was one of the things that has kept him coming back to the Band over the past decades.
Marilynn Fowler
Choreographer
Marilynn Fowler returns for her ninth 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.
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
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
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

Landyn Endo

as Ross

Landyn (he/they) is a queer, transmasculine-of-center actor, dancer and circus performer, specializing in aerial/acrobatics. He graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a double major in Dance and Drama. Since graduating, they have enjoyed dancing professionally in LA and on tour with Multiplex Dance Company, helping to found the West Hollywood Dance Festival. He also had the opportunity to perform in Europe with DTM2 Improvisational Ensemble, Off-Broadway in NYC, and in Japan in “Dreaming Forward,” an artistic collaboration with choreographer Motoko Hirayama, as well as teaching dance for two years in Grenada. They have been an instructor of circus, dance, and gymnastics for over 18 years. Landyn is a proud member of Flying Rabbit Circus, Bow and Arrow Circus Collective and People’s Circus Theatre. He currently teaches at the SF Circus Center and at VRV3, and has a deep passion for encouraging queer and trans youth to find their voice through movement and art. Find them on IG @smooth_landyn

Angelo Giusti

as Mac/Uncle Max

Angelo Giusti (he/they) has been described as an actor, musician, and nightlife cryptid. Starring in everything from San Francisco’s Gay All Male Review “Baloney”, Peaches Christ’s “Troop Beverly Heels”, to Media Meltdown’s “Select Thine Own Journey”. Per their namesake, Angelo Giusti exudes a mischievous cherub-like energy. You can listen to their original music under the artist name, Another Bard. @anotherbard on instagram

Alix Feinsod Guerrero

as Clara/Ruby

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 sixth Dance Along Nutcracker!

Zelda Koznofski

as Stahlbaum/Madame Sugarplum

Zelda is a singer/composer/actor who records and releases original music as well as scores for original film and stage productions with band Gelb Rot Blau. She has performed onstage in a great many drag parodies and musicals in roles including Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in Star Trek Live, Rupert Giles in Buffy The Vampire Slayer Live, Judy Garland in Thrillpeddlers’ Club Inferno, and – of course: Clara, Fritz, Drosselmeyer – you name it, in Dance Along Nutcracker!

Evan Kaminsky

as Uncle Drosselmeyer

This is Evan’s fifth Nutcracker. Previous roles include Clara’s Dad/Fagrid in Clara Potter, Aurora Borealis in Nutcracker in Space and Drosselmeyer the Pumpkin King in Nutmare Before Christmas. Evan has been a bay area stage and screen actor and singer for thirty years. Most recently he can be seen throughout Santa Clara County as Ragnar The Terrible for Star One Credit Union’s newest campaign. Evan is also San Francisco’s Beauty and Grooming Guru and owner of Oui, Three Queens Productions (www.ouithreequeens.com) where he provides Skin Care, Waxing, Grooming and Makeup Artistry for all bodies and all genders. “The Best Bear to Make You Bare! (Down There!)”

Remi Sunshine

as Fritz/Franklin

Remi Sunshine is a singing drag king (Glitter Daddy) and karaoke host, who daylights as a psychotherapist in private practice. This is their second time performing in the Dance Along Nutcracker after being in the ensemble of Clara Potter and the Elder Baton in 2018. While their theater background is in Shakespearean acting, they are happiest when they get to sing and dance! They are a longtime member of the Queer Chorus of San Francisco, where they have earnestly exhibited their classical kazoo training, song parody writing, and amateur choreographer skills. In addition to performing, they worked backstage at Oasis as a stage manager for Harry Poofter and the Chamber of Secretions. Remi is also very pro-rat and fosters orphaned baby squirrels with Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife rescue (please be kind to rodents!).

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.

Marilynn Fowler

Choreographer

Marilynn Fowler returns for her ninth 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.

Michael J. Wong

Guest Conductor

Michael J. Wong is the first Artistic Director of the Marching & Pep Bands for the San Francisco Pride Band. A third generation San Franciscan, Mike joined the Band in 1998 while he was a teenager studying physics and music at U.C. Berkeley. He has literally grown up in the Band taking on the roles of Horn Section Manager, Music Librarian, Drum Major, and volunteer Marching Director and Assistant Conductor, before being appointed to the position of Artistic Director of the Marching & Pep Bands in 2016. This will be Michael’s 25th Dance-Along-Nutcracker. His first (in 1998!) was one of the things that has kept him coming back to the Band over the past decades.

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

Art Props & Dancer

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

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

Clara and Fritz discuss all the 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

A Live Concert Performance

Hear music from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker alongside Broadway, pop, and movie favorites — all performed live by the 75-piece San Francisco Pride Band.

Comedy and tragedy theater masks on a purple background

An Original Musical Theatre Production

Each year features a brand-new scripted show with an original story, bold characters, lively choreography, and campy musical numbers created just for this production.

Silhouettes of two children dancing holding hands on. purple background

You’re Part of the Show

Dance along to the music, enjoy playful audience-participation moments, and watch the entire theatre transform into a joyful, tutu-filled dance floor.

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

For Kids

A family-friendly, high-energy holiday concert filled with music and fun audience-participation moments that children love — especially those who find a traditional Nutcracker ballet tough to sit through.

For Adults

The perfect way to feel like a kid again — tug on a tutu, twirl to “Waltz of the Flowers,” or simply sit back and enjoy the show’s witty dialogue, humor, and joyful 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

A light-hearted, humorous, and uniquely San Francisco holiday tradition that brings families together and creates lasting memories year after year.

Photo Gallery

Group picture of the band doing a silly pose at Dance-Along Nutcracker 2022

Audience participation at the Dance-Along Nutcracker 2022

Band members in costume march in after intermission at Dance-Along Nutcracker 2022

Father carrying child dances at Dance-Along Nutcracker 2022

The show's cast marches down the center aisle at the Dance-Along Nutcracker 2022

SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band kicks off Dance-Along Nutcracker show with the opening overture

The ballerina points the way to the buried treasure in Dance-Along Nutcracker 2017

Ballerina teaches a group of children a ballet dance

Voldemouse sings in Dance-Along Nutcracker 2018: Clara Potter and the Elder Baton

Happy children dancing at Dance-Along Nutcracker 2018

A young audience member waits in front of the band for Dance-Along Nutcracker show to begin

Actors playing Clara and Fritz discuss all the exciting things they'll learn at Fogwarts Academy in Dance-Along Nutcracker 2018

Dancer spins a hula hoop on one arm while waving a magic wand with the other at Dance-Along Nutcracker 2018

Children with streamers dance to Waltz of the Flowers

The final musical number with the full cast and dancers from Dance-Along Nutcracker 2015

Boy smiles for the camera while dancing to Nutcracker Suite music

The band poses for a group photo in full costume showing off their Dance-Along Nutcracker spirit

The show's cast dressed as life-size candy, soda, popcorn and a hot dog come out singing and dancing

The band kicks off Dance-Along Nutcracker 2015 with the show overture music

Adults wearing tutus dance to the Nutcracker Suite music being played live by the band

The cast laughs and yells out "Everyone knows there's no treasure on Treasure Island!" at Dance-Along Nutcracker 2017

A young guest conductor stands on a chair and keeps the band playing perfectly in time

Show History

Discover the vibrant history of this beloved San Francisco holiday tradition, which began 40 years ago 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 .