The Hard Nut

We went knowing this would be an alternative version of the Nutcracker so our expectations were definitely met if not exceeded. There was adult humor but it was done tastefully enough that one could take children to see it if you really wanted to, but I would think that this is written to be an play that is understood and enjoyed more by an adult. Very funny and enjoyable.

The HARD NUT is a nutty (no pun intended) interpretation of the seasonal Nutcracker ballet using robots, Barbie-​dolls, Dance Fever, and 70’s style chic. The characters are colorful, inebriated and naughty. I thought some of the dancing ranged from ho-​hum (party scene) to beautiful (snow scene) to humorous (sugar plum scene). I didn’t think anything was crass, but some of the jokes might have gone over my head. So I think it’s okay to bring your kids.
If you’re familiar with the Nutcracker, then it’s easy to see the similarities, however I don’t think it’s required watching. This Berkeley ballet is joined by an orchestra and small choir. I recommend reading the synopsis in the program so as not to be lost in the story. Just like putting up Christmas lights or drinking eggnog, The Hard Nut is a good way to enjoy the season. Look for it next December.

The quality of the dancing was disappointing, and much of the choreography was watered down to meet the skills of the dancers.
Berkeley or not, I found some of the humor and storyline offensive. Maria was depicted as a «Little Orphan Annie» lookalike, and this was particulary disturbing when the same young girl was used in the Second Act, one in which it was inferred that she had lost her virginity. Lest you think I’m kidding, her mother danced what I suppose one could rename «The Waltz of the Deflowered».
Unbelievable.

I thought I would love this since I’ve wanted to see it for years and I love ballet and modern dance. Unfortunately, I was very disappointed. In the real Nutcracker, the first act is mostly acting (not my fave), but at least the second act is an hour of amazing dancing. In «The Hard Nut,» the dancing & choreography was mediocre and there was a lot of acting and not much dancing. The kitsch factor was somewhat entertaining, but after two hours of that, it got to be a bit much. Go see the real thing instead, or Michael Smuin’s Christmas Ballet at Yerba Buena.

I took my husband to see The Hard Nut tonight. It was entertaining, and the dancers were very talented. My husband found it a bit boring towards the end, and said he didn’t think he would go see ballet again anytime soon. He’s a sports guy. We both really liked the live Orchestra and the choir… truly amazing & definitely got you in the holiday spirit. Its a very funny take off the original Nutcracker. I bought my tickets on Goldstar for half price…$ 18. It was definitely worth that. If you like ballet, you will enjoy this. I think some of the naughty parts might be a bit mature for the little ones, but, hey its Berkeley, so why not…

Much more entertaining than the original Nutcracker that we usually see in San Francisco. A little bit twisted but kept us laughing. Especially when the guys came out dressed as ballerinas. Hilarious. Definitely something the entire family can enjoy.