Mark Foehringer’s Nutcracker Sweets
December 2-23, 2023
Live and in person
Celebrate the holidays with Mark Foehringer‘s Nutcracker Sweets, a unique 50-minute production of the classic holiday ballet designed for families with small children and audiences of all ages. This special production is danced storytelling that is affordable, magical, zany, and fun.
Foehringer uses his choreographic skills in contemporary dance and ballet to craft a show that is sure to thrill dance newcomers and the most jaded balletomane. See all of the favorite Nutcracker characters in beautiful costumes performing on a colorful set with live chamber orchestra music.
Award-winning scenic designer Peter Crompton provides the set design and Emmy-nominated Richard Battle creates gorgeous costumes.
For more information call (628) 400-1348 or email jessie@nullMFDPSF.org
Please Note: Babes in arms must also have tickets. Please refer to the Nutcracker Sweets FAQ for more information.
Tickets: $23.50-$50.00
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What are the COVID regulations?
MFDP|SF and The Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture will be following all current public health directives from state and local authorities:
Children under the age of 2 that cannot wear masks must have proof of a negative COVID test, taken no more than 48-72 hours prior to the show they plan to attend. All other guests in attendance (regardless of age) must either have proof of Vaccination, OR a negative COVID test, taken no more than 48-72 hours prior to the show they plan to attend. We accept at home rapid test as well as PCR test results. For at home tests, we recommend that patrons take a photo of the negative test as proof of the result that will need to be provided for the show check in. In addition, patrons 2 years and older will be required to always wear a mask in the venue, in accordance with San Francisco City policies. Tests will not be provided at the theater, so please be prepared ahead of time.
Entry requirements are subject to change.
What about cancellations due to COVID-19?
Due to the impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic events for which you have purchased tickets may be affected. If the event is canceled you are entitled to a refund of the paid value of your ticket. If you and your family need to cancel due to personal, COVID related issues, MFDP|SF is happy to exchange your ticket for Alice in Wonderland, March 12 and 13, 2022.
What can I expect to see at a Nutcracker Sweets show?
Audiences can expect to see a unique 50 minute version of the classic ballet Nutcracker specifically designed for families with young children. Families will see live music–a chamber orchestra with 9 musicians–and the return of former ODC dancer, Carlos Venturo as Drosselmeyer. Nutcracker Sweets is an affordable, fun and zany rendition of this popular holiday tradition.
How long is the performance?
50 minutes with no intermission.
How early should I arrive at the theater?
At least 30 minutes before the performance. We recommend your plan to arrive an hour early, in case of traffic or parking difficulty, and to have time for the restroom, or to get refreshments.
Can my child sit on my lap
For insurance reasons, all persons MUST have a ticket, but children can sit in their seat, on your lap, or stand in front of their seat. No sitting is allowed in the aisle because the dancers enter and exit through the aisles.
For insurance reasons, all persons must have a ticket, even babes in arms
Can I eat or drink at Nutcracker Sweets?
No food or drink of any kind is allowed in the theater, except for Bottled water. Refreshments will be available for purchase in the lobby. There are several cafes and restaurants in Fort Mason and nearby if you want to eat before or after the show.
Can I bring a stroller or car seat for my child?
Yes, but strollers must be parked in the lobby for safety reasons. They are not allowed inside the theatre. Car seats can be used in your child’s seat, but cannot be placed in the aisles.
What age range is Nutcracker Sweets geared towards?
Nutcracker Sweets is for the child in all of us so it is appropriate for multi-generations. It is made specifically for children with a short attention span so any child would enjoy the performance.
Can I bring a camera and take photographs?
Photographs with the cast members can be taken after the 1pm or 4 pm shows. Please, no photographs, video, cell phones, iPads, or recording of any kind during the performance.
Can my child see if we are in the front row?
The stage is 3 feet above the floor level, so even children in row one should be able to see everything.
How do I get to Fort Mason?
MUNI serves Fort Mason by public bus. See www.sfmta.com/getting-around/muni/routes-stops for trip planning Golden Gate Transit stops about 10 minute walk from Fort Mason. See www.sfmta.com/getting-around/muni/routes-stops for trip planning. BART serves downtown (Market ST) San Francisco. You can use ride hailing apps or MUNI to get to Fort Mason. If you are driving, allow plenty of time because of holiday traffic in The City and parking
Where can I park?
There is very limited free parking right outside of Fort Mason (by the yacht club / marina).Fort Mason has paid parking on campus (inside the gates). Rates are reasonable, and are listed on the Fort Mason website. (Off campus, street Parking is limited to 1 hour, and is strictly enforced.
Where exactly is Cowell Theater located within Fort Mason Center?
Cowell Theater is located at the rear of the Herbst Pavillion within Fort Mason Center. Click here for a map of Fort Mason Center.
Are there group discounts for Mark Foehringer’s Nutcracker Sweets?
Discounts for groups are not offered. MFDPSF (the dance company presenting Nutcracker Sweets) have set multiple prices depending on the seat that makes the show affordable for all families.