The Long Beach Ballet’s Artistic Director, David Wilcox, pulled out all the stops for the 36th production of the classical tale. This production boasts a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, a real live horse, on-stage pyrotechnics, and a cast of over 200. The enchanting scenery was created by former Disney designers Elliot Hessayon and Scott Schaffer, the detailed costumes designed by Australian artist Adrian Clark, and special effects by renowned magician Franz Harary. This year’s guest artists in the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince include Sarah Richard Orza, principal dancer with the Pacific Northwest Ballet, and Seth Orza, principal dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet.