All the shows of Ballet Philippines’ The Nutcracker sold out even months before curtains raised for the gala. Over the holiday season, this Christmas classic proved to be one of the most awaited performances on stage.

On opening night, art patrons, balletomanes, theater fans, and the city’s well heeled filled the main lobby of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). They were joined by special guests of the company, namely, the public school children and Men (and Women) In Unform under the Share The Magic CSR initiative.

The magic of the season was felt even before entering the theater. Santa Claus was around to bring holiday cheer to audiences as were towering men on stilts and clowns. There was candy for chidren, and fine wines for the young at heart. Savory Argentinian fare from La Cabrera warmed bellies before the show. That everyone could once again enjoy holidays at the ballet lifted spirits.

It was, said most guests, a night that brought back fondest Christmas memories from childhood. It was also a most fitting show to close out the year especially with the CCP temporarily shutting its doors for a two-year renovation.

Ballet Philippines returns to the stage—in a new home at the Solaire Theatre—on April for the debut of Carlo Calma’s Diyosa.