FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — For nearly five decades, Civic Dance Center’s annual production of The Nutcracker has been a cherished holiday tradition for generations of families throughout Bakersfield and Kern County. This year, the community is invited to help preserve one of the production’s most distinctive features—a live professional orchestra—by attending Civic’s annual Christmas in July fundraiser on Thursday, July 23, at Bakersfield Country Club.

The festive evening raises funds to support the live orchestra that accompanies every performance of Civic’s Nutcracker. While many regional productions rely on recorded music, Civic remains committed to presenting Tchaikovsky’s beloved score as it was intended to be experienced—with live musicians performing alongside the dancers.

Guests will enjoy an evening of dinner, live entertainment, silent and live auctions, raffles, and special performances by Civic dancers, all while helping ensure that future generations can continue to experience the magic of live music during the holiday season.

Now entering its 49th annual production, Civic’s Nutcracker has become one of Kern County’s longest-running performing arts traditions, introducing thousands of young dancers to classical ballet while creating lasting holiday memories for audiences across the region.

“Every year, our community comes together to make something extraordinary possible,” said Artistic Director Erica Ueberroth. “The live orchestra is an essential part of what makes our Nutcracker so special. It creates an experience that inspires our dancers, enriches our audiences, and preserves an artistic tradition that has been part of Bakersfield for generations. Community support allows us to continue presenting this production with the level of artistry it deserves.”

Funds raised through Christmas in July help offset the significant cost of hiring professional musicians, ensuring that Civic can continue presenting The Nutcracker with live orchestral accompaniment despite rising production expenses.

The event also provides an opportunity for local businesses and community members to invest in one of Bakersfield’s enduring cultural traditions. Sponsorship opportunities remain available, and individual tickets may still be purchased.

Christmas in July
Thursday, July 23 at 6:30pm
Bakersfield Country Club
Tickets and additional information: 
https://www.civicdancecenter.com/the-nutcracker/