This annual Christmas ballet is bound to get any Scrooge into the holiday spirit. For 24 years, Michael Smuin’s company has merged the diverse vocabulary of classical ballet with contemporary American dance. This year, Smuin’s acclaimed choreographer-in-residence, Amy Seiwert, pairs a new piece with Joni Mitchell’s mournful Christmas tune, “River.” The first act—‘Classical Christmas’—has dancers moving to traditional seasonal pieces, such as “Ave Maria,” and, in a nod to Hanukkah, “Licht bensh’n.” There will also be a festive medley of pop favorites, including “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” and “Santa Baby.”
Smuin Ballet
Wed, 8pm, $56+
Center for Performing Arts, Mountain View
Smuin's Christmas Ballet is Back
