Families, couples, date-nights and first-time attendees filled Symphony Hall as Ballet Arizona opened its annual production of The Nutcracker—marking one of Phoenix’s most anticipated holiday traditions. 

The performances run from Dec.12-27. 

Northeast Valley News saw the opening night of The Nutcracker begin about 15 minutes late after long concession lines slowed the flow of guests into the theater. 

The curtain rose and the magical music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky with choreography by Ib Andersen would begin. 

The delay did little to dampen the festive atmosphere. 

Symphony Hall was decorated for Christmas, with garlands, lights and displays of Nutcracker-themed ornaments and holiday souvenirs were available for selfies and purchases. 

Audience members arrived dressed for the occasion, many decked out in formal and festive attire, as families with children and people of all ages gathered in the lobby before taking their seats.

The Nutcracker has become a December staple in Phoenix, indeed, everywhere—in fact, The Nutcracker is performed worldwide on every continent except Antarctica and features international casts with often culturally adapted versions, making it a global holiday tradition. 

Ballet Arizona stages multiple performances throughout the month as the production consistently draws large crowds and is considered a holiday tradition for many. 

For the venue staff, the opening night crowd brought a noticeable energy.

“The ambiance here, the setup, the musicians—watching the dancers warm up was really awesome,” said Joe Nesbitt, a food and beverage operations associate at Symphony Hall. 

Nesbitt began working at the venue earlier this year and told Northeast Valley News the event stood out from others he has seen. 

“People come here to have a great time, and it’s wonderful to see all the smiles.” 

It was Nesbitt’s first time experiencing The Nutcracker himself. 

“I’m just soaking it in, the decorations are definitely different, and we even have specialty holiday drinks.”