Mendocino Ballet

Ellen Sassenrath as Clara - Nutcracker 2005

Every December the Mendocino Ballet presents this traditional holiday classic in Ukiah, California. It features distinguished guest artists with company members in the other principle roles. Many younger ballet students participate in the Party Scene, and as the Little Sheep and Angels. Adult actors are also included in the cast, in the Party Scene. Altogether, more than 100 members of the community are involved onstage and behind the scenes.

"Magical Dolls Come to Life"

Enter the magical world of an enchanted toyshop and delight in the dancing dolls crafted by an amazing dollmaker in “The Fantastic Toyshop”. Get ready to enjoy an exciting evening of dance performed by members of the Mendocino Ballet under the direction of Artistic Director, Trudy McCreanor. Set in southern France in the late 1800’s, dancing poodles and beautiful dolls from many cultures entertain customers who travel from England and America to see the magic unfold. Trouble erupts when the customers and their children want to split up the prized can-can dolls. An enchanting and ethereal Fairy and a surprise ending will captivate audiences of all ages.

"La Boutique Fantasque" (The Fantastic Toyshop) was first presented in London in 1919 by the internationally famous Ballets Russes. The ballet was originally choreographed by Leonide Massine and arranged and orchestrated by Respighi to the classic Rossini score, filled with familiar melodies.

An enchanting children's fairy tale ballet. Delightful forest animals, elegant birds, and an eccentric witch bring the story to life while Hansel and Gretel try to find their way out of the forest. Humor, excitement, beautiful dancing, and a few surprises ensure an enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages.

This program was the Spring 2001 performance for the Mendocino and Lake County schoolchildren in collaboration the Mendocino College, The Mendocino College Dance Dept., and Community Extension.

This world acclaimed comic opera ballet is one of the best-loved stories of all time and comes to vibrant life through the music of Sergei Prokofiev. The stepsisters' (traditionally played by men) comic antics, some “fairy dust”, a handsome Prince, and an ill-treated servant girl who finds true love combine in a visually stunning presentation of this favorite fairy tale. An entertaining performance which captures Cinderella's timeless and enduring charm, dazzling viewers young and old.