"The Nutcracker"

Long Beach Ballet's "The Nutcracker" With Full Symphony Orchestra

Southern California's only "Nutcracker" production with a full symphony orchestra stars "So You Think You Can Dance?" finalist Melissa Sandvig and Seth Orza, principal dancer with the Pacific Northwest Ballet. Now in its 31st season, this stunning version of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet by artistic director David Wilcox also boasts sparkling sets and costumes, dazzling pyrotechnics and magic effects -- along with a special appearance by "Rebel," Long Beach Ballet's gorgeous white Arabian horse. The "Los Angeles Times" calls it "opulent, family-oriented holiday entertainment."