The Orchestra was excellent, the dancing, when they finally get to the ballet numbers in the second act, was excellent. The scenery and costumes were very disappointing. the scenery consisted of painted backdrops, not unusual for ballet, but they were so bland and lacked detail and creativity of any kind. The magical growing Christmas tree didn't grow enough for anyone to notice. with the exception of a few, the costumes just did not make the mark, not creative, not sumptuous. Dancing and orchestra- very professional. The design of the show amateurish. read more

Saw Giselle yesterday and was honestly underwhelmed. I kept getting distracted by the flaws in the technique of the dancers. More than one dancer couldn't hold their extensions, and the group dances were painfully out of sync. The choreography was also quite boring and repetitive. Lots of walking around instead of dancing. Really not what I expected from a professional ballet company as I've seen high school productions with tighter technique and more interested in choreography. Definitely not worth the money. read more

I bought tickets for my wife's bday with literally no concept as to what the Nutcracker was about or what to expect. You want to know the extent of how ignorant I was? Literally thought there was going to be dialogue/ singing included in the show. Yes, I live under a rock, but I digress. I was a little worried that since we were seeing it at the Redondo Beach performing arts center, it wasn't going to have that same WOW factor as they would have in Hollywood/LA. I was SO wrong. The production value was amazing and extremely immersive. I don't consider myself a ballet kinda guy, but the dancers at our 5pm showing on 12/11 were un-fricken-believable. The stuff they were doing was unreal and I think my jaw dropped and my eyes were bulging all throughout the show. It was also pretty cool to see all the diverse talent they've incorporated. My only complaint had to do with the organization pre-show. They need to have signs dividing the lines because it was super disorganized when we got there and nobody knew what was going on. Also, the staff outside weren't on the same page so one of the lines had people cutting / merging with another line because one staff member told a line one thing and then another told our line something else. However, I only say this in hopes the company proactively addresses this for future shows to create a more seamless experience. At the end of the day and aside from my only criticism, the show was breathtaking and it's so incredible how much talent is one cast/ team! I think we have a new Christmas tradition for the years to come :) read more

I attended the most recent performance of LAB, an Evening with Christopher Wheeldon on The Broad Stage with three friends who rarely attend ballet performances. We were blown away by the artistry and physicality of the dancers under the new Artistic Director, Melissa Barak. I have followed the company for years and the quality of the dancers has improved greatly. We are fortunate to have a world class ballet company in LA and look forward to the next performance. read more

Meh--a few ballerinas were excellent but overall bad direction and choreography-- not the type to leave reviews about ballet but if you're looking for an amazing Nutcracker rendition this isn't the performance for u... college level performances surpass this read more

los angeles ballet's 'the nutcracker' at pasadena civic auditorium was very well-danced & had delightful production design & costumes. beautiful, intimate theatre from the 1920s. exceptionally pleased to have gone to this fine performance. will seek them out in future. bravi !!! read more

I've seen the nutcracker 3 times. Last nigh I saw it at the Alex theater for a 4th time & unfortunately it was underwhelming. I really expected the Los Angeles ballet of the nutcracker to be one of the best. 4 years ago, I had seen the Miami ballet perform the nutcracker and everything about it was outstanding, the set design, the costumes, the performers. Unfortunately, the Los Angeles ballet of the nutcracker fell short of any of that. I expected one of the biggest cities in the world to have one of the best performances of the Nutcracker but they didn't. I had gone with a girlfriend who had never seen the nutcracker before, and she said she never wants to go see the nutcracker ever again after watching this performance, how sad. In addition, I thought I was watching a school play. Whoever choreographed the set design, the costumes really did a terrible job, in addition to the choreography with all the children making it seem like I was at the school play. the part that makes the Nutcracker so spectacular are the ballerinas in their tutus, but there were no tutus, except for one ballerina. read more

Los Angeles Ballet (LAB), just ten-years old, under artistic direction of Thordal Christensen and Colleen Neary is comprised of five principal dancers, four soloists, and a company of twenty-eight dancers, three apprentices plus three character artists. Many have been with LAB for close to those ten years; many have left homes, family both near and far dedicating themselves to LAB, to make it a driving cultural force in Los Angeles, a destination often criticized for the very lack thereof. LAB is still a young company with goals, dreams, like eventually having live orchestral accompaniment, a goal that takes monumental financial support. And that is why my sweetie and I generously opened our wallets in support of LAB at their 11-1-15 inspired performance of "Giselle", UCLA's Royce Hall. Upcoming LAB events include "The Nutcracker", "Don Quixote" http://losangelesballet.org/ LAB's negative Yelp reviews regarding performances reflect entitlement, lack empathy for this fledgling troupe. In reading them post "Giselle", I couldn't help recall being seated at a 2012 dinner fundraiser next to the keynote speaker, producer and talent agent, Jorge Insua, his story of courage, perseverance. At each place setting he left a postcard that said, "Don't limit yourself by others' lack of vision." Words I live by, my message to LAB, but one I suspect they already hold true. read more

Los Angeles Ballet - From Los Angeles Ballet's website. Check out the 2015-2016 season losangelesballet.org - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

LA Ballet is the BUSINESS. I attended their Nutcracker performance last December at UCLA's Royce Hall, and was just in awe with how each ballerina performed. It was just a beautiful sight to see. When purchasing tickets for the show I signed up for their monthly newsletter and I'm so glad I did. I received an email about free ballet classes as apart of their community outreach. During ballet season one day out of the month they offer free ballet classes from beginner to advanced and all in between, and all the classes are taught by LAB's dancers. Pretty cool eh. I found myself signing up for Floor Barre, Intro to Ballet and Beginner/Intermediate Ballet. All of the classes were good. I found myself actually learning but having fun at the same time. I appreciate each and every dancers contribution to teaching me that day. From offering a floor mat, to pulling me aside to teach me for a little one on one to breakdown each movement. Thank you LAB! read more

Los Angeles Ballet - Beginner/Intermediate Ballet - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I went to the Nutcracker a couple weeks ago and really enjoyed it. Everything from the ticket buying experience (my internet didn't work so I had to call in and buy through a guy named Jake, who was seriously very helpful), to the ballet, and the overall experience. Mike's 3 things you need to know about the ballet: 1. You have to do it at least once. Then your grandparents can brag to their friends when you say you went to the ballet. And you can post it on Facebook and get some likes. 2. It's cool for a date, and even cooler to bring your Mom. Though it sounds cool, I feel like the ballet can go either way- either really awesome or semi-awkward. Fortunately, this was awesome. But if it's awkward, you can discuss it openly with your Mom...whereas on a date, you might feel so inclined as to act posh and discuss it like British people. Also, posting that you brought your Mom to the ballet looks great on Facebook. 3. Though you don't have to wear fancy clothes, everyone looks better in formal gear. So, do it. Guys, suit up. Ladies, fancy womanwear it up. Then you not only look good and better than the crowd, but you can go out for overpriced drinks after. Then you can make the pics from that night your Facebook pics. People will love it. Unless you're ugly, in which case, don't post them. Thanks. HOLLER AT MY 1ST ELITE POST OF 2010. CAPS LOCK FO LIFE. read more

Los Angeles Ballet - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

After seeing the LA Ballet in the Nutcracker during the Christmas season of 2019, I was so touched & moved to tears, Couldn't wait to go for the first time since the Pandemic on 12/22 at the Dolby Theatre. It was such a let-down. It just lacked professionalism, and was almost slapstick. The costuming, choreography and timing were all lackluster and the second half felt rushed. I found out from one of the musicians riding down to our parking that the Conductor had walked off right before the performance. It's our tradition, but I definitely will not attend another LA Ballet performance. read more

I've been to a few ballet performances now by LAB and have enjoyed them each time. I get that a live orchestra is an added bonus, but that's really out of reach for this ballet company at the moment. I thoroughly enjoyed attending a "sampler" program at the UCLA ROyce hall called "Director's Choice" on June 6, 2015. The principal dancers were great, as well as the corps de Ballet. One of the performances was a Balanchine ballet : Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 2 ; and that was so high energy, I felt breathless just watching! There was a "modern" dramatic ballet of "The Moor's Pavane' ( based on Shakespeare's Othello). The costumes were lush and it consisted of only 4 dancers. Really lovely to watch. FInally there was thoroughly funny ballet: Sechs Tänze (Six Dances) by Kylián which had many in the audience , especially me, chuckling and laughing out loud (Oops, was this a serious audience?) They do offer community classes for as young as 4 or 5 years! Tonight was also a fundraiser and I was happy to contribute. Why are the arts so underfunded? It's such a shame, I 'd give more if I could. read more

Saw a performance of The Nutcracker at the Dolby, and I have a lot to say. First, the dancers were fantastic. It was lovely to see them perform. There were some distinctive, notable adjustments to casting choices and plot compared to what I (and my friend) have seen in other cities (Drosselmeyer is a nice, kooky uncle instead of a creepy magician dude, the Nutcracker is never portrayed as a doll - so we didn't even know it was him when he first appeared, we thought it was some random soldier dude, and it took them actually bringing out nuts for us to figure out he was the Nutcracker). Fritz is nicer. They also had the Nutcracker played by a younger man, so there are doubles of both Clara and The Nutcracker (no Sugar Plum Fairy, instead "Marie," aka "Older Clara" dances with "The Prince," aka "Older Nutcracker"). A lot of the staging changes from what I've seen, as a result. When they enter the magic kingdom, it feels crowded - there's a lot of village folk on stage, which steals focus from a lot of the main dance pieces, which were a little uninspiring - not the fault of the dancers, just a crowded stage. On to the costumes and the rest of the story - the Harlequins had really distracting costumes, which impacted appreciation of their performance. The Polichinelles (Mother Ginger's children) also had odd costumes, which looked like something out of the 1920s/depression era farming? Drosselmeyer also appears A LOT, and his coats were silly. So - that didn't help. We really missed the sense of magic and a bit of fear that emanates from him in other shows - in others we've seen, he comes out in a dark cape and is creepy, sort of a Disney bad guy-level of scary, while this guy was just silly, and there was a strange implication, when he was alone with Clara while she was asleep, that didn't sit well with us. This was because instead of "magical other-worldly dude" he was "fun kooky uncle who maybe spends too much time alone with kids." Which... yuck. It was unfortunate, because the talent was so clear in all the dancers especially the Russians. To that end - there isn't a sense of Chocolate/Coffee/Tea/Candy Canes that are in other performances - that element was vague. I had a memory of the fans snapping open audibly in other shows I've seen (Chocolate/the Spanish dancers), but my friend didn't. On to the biggest thing that marred our enjoyment, and this is sadly a problem with so many live shows - people on their phones. We were in one of the last orchestra rows and a woman wearing pink with brown hair in the first 5-6 rows on the left side was on her phone almost the whole time - she was literally 14 rows ahead of me, I counted, and I could see every snapshot. She took multiple pictures of about 5 of the dances, multiple times (snowflakes, Arabian/coffee, Danish sheperdesses, sugar plum fairy, are ones I remember), and it was hugely distracting. I don't honestly know what to do about this - ushers aren't equipped to do anything, and if I get up to talk to them, I miss more of the show, and I become a distraction to everyone else! Pre-show announcements that half the audience ignores simply aren't enough, and when we're paying $100+ for seats, it's outrageous to have to watch someone take snapshots the whole time. And, it's not kids/Millennials, usually. Every time I've seen this happen - and it's been a lot, most recently at Come from Away (CTG), because I love live theater/dance - it's always someone 30-40+. What is that about? It's not like an emergency phone call or something, where you duck out. It's plain rudeness to both audience and performers. The ushers announced no photos numerous times pre-show. So, she just didn't care. I'm not sure what the answer is - ushers equipped to throw people out? Fining audience members? Offering audience a chance to purchase previously taken professional photo/video, during the "no phone" announcement, so they know they don't *need* to take pictures? I would get 2 season subscriptions to any company that had a policy of fining or ejecting audience members who use their phones in shows. It's insane to spend so much money and then spend half the show distracted (it takes a while to get back into the show, when you've been watching someone take pictures, and then I'm always tense that they're about to do it again, and of course they always do). Do I need to just get front row seats, every time? Impossible, monetarily. The show isn't at fault. But something needs to change. Anyway, a mixed bag all around. Great dancers, but ultimately left upset at the massive distraction. read more

The truth is, you probably haven't been to the ballet in ages. I hadn't, in fact i don't think I'd ever gone. But I found myself in a series of events that landed me in front of this dance company. The real advantage of this lies in its date potential. At thirty dollars a ticket it won't destroy your bank account, but you can get dressed up which is always important to your girl. She'll love it because the ballet here really truly is beautiful. You (the guy) will love it because there are some legitimate athletes in this troupe. From a physical prospective watching this girls jump ranks right up there with watching most professional athletics. But the real draw is the pitch. "Let's go the Ballet" ranks way higher than "Let's go the movies". How she'll view the night is on a totally different level than your standard dinner fare. Doing distinctive dates is important and it really makes you stand out in a crowd. The ballet does a great job of positioning themselves into that category. read more

My boyfriend and I went to a performance of the Nutcracker on December 28th and couldn't have been more disappointed! First off, the music isn't live and no where on their website or tickets is this disclosed. Had we known, we never would have bothered buying tickets in the first place. A live orchestra makes a huge difference and was expected in a city this size. As a result, the energy was low and the whole thing felt like we were watching an amateur ballet company. Not what we were expecting from the Los Angeles Ballet Company that refers to itself on it's own website as "recognized as a world-class ballet company." The dancing and performances were sub-par. I was picking out mistakes left and right, but even more telling was that my boyfriend noticed, too. He's no expert but could see the obvious spacial issues and missteps the dancers were making. They all just seemed off. At other times, the performances were over the top with strange facial expressions and exaggerated gestures. It seemed like the dancers were going for a laugh rather than a sophisticated ballet. I was surprised by the unusual choreography and choices made by the director. I'm not saying every show has to be the same, but there is an expectation that comes with this particular, beloved show. The sets and costumes were nothing special. It all just looked cheap. I had hoped for some sophistication from a city ballet company and instead felt like we were given the best a community theater had to offer. Our show was the last of the season. I really hope they revamp for next year, but sadly we will not be going back for any show. **Since attending, my boyfriend has been in touch with the ballet company via email requesting a refund or, at the very least, report the lack of live music on their website, which can be done with a positive spin. The ballet company representative wrote back saying that would sound like an apology to give that information out on the website and refused both requests. There is no way we will ever attend another show and will continue to advise friends against going as well. read more

Decent performances some off tempo and not in sync and at times too much bass and reverb with the recorded music (Recorded music? Really, no live orchestra.) But here is my main critique: I was in row U at the Alex Theater Behind me was the photographer clicking away during the performance. Totally ruined the first piece. That's 1/3 of the evening. At intermission the theater house manager who was professional as can be moved me although instead of orchestra middle I got orchestra side. The manager said someone from the ballet would come by and talk to me. No one ever did. Too busy schmoozing and hugging each other. After the performance as I left the House Manager came by in the lobby to ask if the ballet mgt had come by as she told them of my issue. I told her no but thanked her for her courtesy and helpfulness. 5 stars to the Alex Theater and the house manager who handled a problem not of their making. 0 stars to the L.A. Ballet staff. Amateur hour in every way from their placement of the photographer (this is your profession and you don't know better?) to the Mickey Mouse way you didn't handle it. Like another reviewer posted I was expecting to see a professional ballet company, but I'm pretty sure I ended up at a high school or college production. This post would not have been posted if someone spent three minutes to come by and say oops, sorry. Instead you lost a patron. read more

Los Angeles's very own ballet company is barely a few years old and it's already acclaimed (somewhere i'm sure). I attended The Nutcracker at UCLA Royce Hall. The choreography and set designs are originals and the costumes were beautifully designed as well. I was impressed by the different screens that depicted different settings. Economical and works well with scene changes in no time. The ballet was excellent. I was impressed by the elegant spinning chopsticks and the younger chopsticks, all who danced en pointe and encompassed the five ballet positions along with hippipty hippipty long leaps across the stage. It was a delightful show. I'm still not a fan of watching the dudes in white tights waving their cups while prancing. I know all the songs from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker but forgot that there was a lot of boring music in the first Act and all that all the popular songs are in the last Act, including the Waltz of the Flowers, which is also infamously one of two on-hold music provided by the IRS hotline. I have every note memorized. As the flowers waved with the wind towards closing, I remember how soon Christmas was. ahh, the holidays, how wonderful. Bravo for the LAB. read more

I purchased season tickets and I don't think I'd do that again. I was very shocked to find that the second row terrace seats I had purchased and paid a premium for didn't actually mean a traditional balcony or terrace. It just mean the first row of the back section. For some reason these seats were priced higher than those more centrally located in the orchestra. I could have just have easily purchased the cheapest seats and had a better view. No live orchestra and opening night of Gisele was delayed by a most uncomfortable speech essentially begging for money that would have been best left until after I'd seen the performance I'd actually paid for. However I did end up donating so maybe it worked. But it was very awkward. The production itself was ok. I skipped the Nutcracker but will be at the opening night of Don Quixote in my overpriced seats. I wasn't expected them to be at the level of the Royal Ballet or ABT but overall it just feels very unprofessional read more

I have seen The Nutcracker a few times since I was a little kid. The Los Angeles Ballet put on the finest rendition of it I have seen. The sets were beautiful truly making the scenes more inviting and aesthetic. The performers were beautiful both physically and in their performance. Beyond the performance, the L.A. Ballet provides an atmosphere for a great and creative date. It is entertaining and social allowing you to show your dated a classical side that may not be exposed otherwise. It's also a great excuse to dress up and wear that new suit that you thought you would never wear. read more

Saw the Los Angeles ballet perform the Nutcracker and it was wonderful! I saw it at the Dolby Kodak theatre in Hollywood and the performance was delightful. Compared to other ballet companies that I won't mention, this company is amazing. The Nutcracker performance was all ballet and very entertaining. The time went by so fast, that I was sad it was over. Great experience! I definitely will be watching this company perform The Nutcracker for years to come! read more

We came with my husband on December 24th hoping to enjoy the magic of the Nutcracker, but ended up furious at almost every part of this performance. It was not worth time, money and almost ruined our Christmas eve experience. Never going to Los Angeles Ballet performances ever again. Nutcracker is what brings the magic to Christmas, it is supposed to inspire people, however this performance was not inspiring, not exciting at all and I doubt that any girl would think of becoming a ballerina after watching this performance by LAB. 1) First of all, there were just a few real ballet dances, the most part of this spectacle was people walking side to side on the stage. It looked more like a silent theatre rather than a ballet. 2) Second, about half of the parts were done by kids. Did we know that we are coming to a school performance when we paid over $100 for a ticket? 3) Third, the costumes and decorations were horrible - very dull and not festive at all. Nutcracker happens on Christmas eve - when people wear their best, but here every costume was so brown and uninteresting! It is not even the lack of financing - they could have just gave Russian dancers red belts and that would they would looked so much better, and same about every other costume. Decorations looked very simple and the Christmas tree did not impress at all.. 4) Drosselmeyer - the Chinese guy in a big furry coat was super irritating. He was present in almost every scene - very unnecessary. I did not notice him dancing much, he was also rather walking side to side all the time pantomiming all the time - this made him super annoying. 5) The whole performance looked very amateurish. Invited performers were ok, however it felt that their potential was not fully used - the number of moves was very limited and I still wonder if it was because of their abilities or the choreographer. There was no "Wow" scene during the whole performance. 6) It was very confusing when the Guests and the servants started to dance at the Christmas party together! Also strange that Clara stayed and danced with adults while other kids disappeared.... why? 7) Speaking of Clara (Sarahanne Perel) - I have no idea how old is this girl and if she is already a professional dancer or still a student, but it looked like she only has a few moves that she can do and she would repeat it through the whole performance. Positive parts: 1) The story was transformed into taking place in Los Angeles and I almost do not mind changing the Sweets kingdom into Doll kingdom (With the exception that they should had not changed Chinese dance into Harlequins.. that just did not match with music) 2) Sugarplum fairy (doll Marie in this performance) and the Prince were good. 3) Cardeballet (company dancers) performing Snowflake and Flower dance were decent. A bit bigger and heavier than European dancers... but ok. 4) Performance at Dolby theatre was accompanied with live orchestra which is a great plus and very rare, as I understand. read more

I have attended two performances and have enjoyed the entertainment. The dancers are pretty good, but for such a big city, I would have thought they would have been a little better. Everyone seemed to work well together. I really enjoyed the second part of the Nutcracker and the first part of Sleeping Beauty. The costumes in the beginning of Sleeping Beauty were beautiful. I am stunned they don't have live music, that makes the ballet a complete package. read more

Just saw the Nutcracker at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and must say the show exceeded all my expectations. Incredible production, beautiful sets, gorgeous costumes and performances by internationally acclaimed dancers. Not enough people in our area realize what a privilege it is to have such a production in our back yard. Bravo! read more

Wow! We just did the outreach "a chance to dance" program. The facility is huge and gorgeous. And our teacher "Ms. Britney" was awesome. My 3-year old had an amazing time. Thanks! read more

This review is for the Los Angeles Ballet Summer Intensive, or LASBI. My daughter attended the 2011 summer course, she was 13. The lodging for the summer course was great, they stay at Pepperdine University (no a/c) and eat in the Pepperdine cafeteria. This really is the only nice thing I can say for this program. Oh, they went to a Malibu street fair at some point and she really enjoyed that. As for the ballet program Location - The location of this "ballet studio" is in West Hollywood, across the street from what looks to be a chop shop, and has bars on the entrance door. There is a small deli that the girls can walk to at lunch time and the food was great. HOWEVER, on her last day, she walked to the deli and was stopped on the sidewalk by a man in a car wanting to know her name...not good. It is in a very shadey part of town. Lastly, it is a 35 minute bus ride to the studio from Pepperdine if there is no traffic. Studio- The studios are filthy dirty with recorded music. One of the studio's, the performance studio is a warehouse facility with the back door rolled up- during the time I was there a semi was backed up in the space. Upstairs, there is very little space for the kids to hang out...again, shabby gross couch, filthy dirty. On performance day there was a plumbing problem that sent the owner of the studio into a rage... Classes - My daughter had 3 a day and none on the weekends. Too much time between classes and nothing to do on weekends. This program was really regarded as one of the best programs for a summer intensive on the West Coast by our dance studio - I have a feeling that they have never been there. My daughter has attended 3 courses all over 5 weeks and this was the worst and the most expensive. At the end of the day - did my daughter become better and improve her technique? No. read more

Not sure about all these glowing reviews. Just caught the 2011 production of the Nutcracker last night and would have been okay with it if I hadn't spent nearly $100 a seat to see mostly pre-recorded orchestrations and amateurish dancers. Here's my full review: Growing up in the 70s, "The Nutcracker" has always been as much a part of the Christmas season as Santa and manger scenes. Having missed opportunities to see a production for years during my adult life, I researched upcoming productions in the Los Angeles area. Living in a world-class city, one would expect to be able to find world-class productions of this holiday classic spattered around and easy to come by. Though the ticket price and company with "Los Angeles" in the name set my expectations high, I left with a sense of emptiness and the tragic realization that L.A. just may not be a ballet city. The opening night brought us an odd hodgepodge of seasoned professional performers (some from companies around the world) mixed in with young (and I mean young) and rather green ballet students, mediocre sets, and a scaled down production (the Alex theatre is a beautifully restored historic theatre but a medium-sized venue, meaning the stage and pit were too small for a full-scale production as it was originally designed; the score is performed by 22 L.A. musicians mixed in with sampled electronic orchestrations, since there isn't room for the 55 musicians needed to play Tchaikovsky's masterpiece as it is scored). The costumes--donated by a royal-calibre production from Northern Europe--were magnificent, making the amateurish set pieces look crowded and inadequate in comparison. The choreography, quite traditional and well-aligned with the music, was clearly adjusted to the capabilities of the performers, which varied remarkably across the company of dancers (there were spots in the Pas de Deux where awkward pauses hinted at lifts and other complex moves that were left out due to the dancers' limitations). Inexplicably, the principal company dancer who normally plays the role of the Prince of the Land of Dolls sat out this performance, meaning various understudies were shuffled about in the cast, and it was noticeable (some were missing steps here and there and appeared rather clunky next to the more graceful and technically proficient performers). The staging and direction again were largely traditional, save for a couple of variations; one--moving two sections of the Sugarplum Fairy's and Prince's Pas de Deux toward the beginning of Act II--was brilliant, and the other--removing the Dance of the Reed Pipes in favor of including a rather cheesy take on the generally omitted Mother Ginger number (as it normally stops the show dead, and this was no exception)--was incredibly odd and ill-advised. It was also pretty obvious to us old timers that the comical Chinese costumes were left out of the Tea Dance--which was instead performed by the Harlequin dolls--in the name of political correctness, which was irritating. All in all, it was a nice treat to view some of the stunning costumes and footwork that went into the show, but the unnecessary layers of cuteness and clunkiness among the less-seasoned performers gave the whole production an amateurish quality that made it dissatisfying. I am feeling the need to find a full-scale production with a fully professional cast before my holiday season is complete. If you have high expectations as I do when shelling out $95 for a ticket, then skip this one and look to a place where you are more likely to get more bang for your buck. read more

So disappointed. My husband and I left at intermission. This was basically a silent play with little to no dancing and no live orchestra. I was expecting to see a professional ballet company, but I'm pretty sure we ended up at a high school production. read more

Unfortunate, disappointment. This company needs to make a stronger commitment to their talent. I have seen the Nutcracker every year since I was 5 (that makes for 31 years). I've seen thrilling performances that require EVERY bit of discipline to keep from jumping out of your seat. I've also seen very good performances in unsuspecting cities... I couldn't wait to see LA Ballet Company's performance of the Nutcracker. It's LA, right!? The place where talent is abundant and you NEED a lucky break to be noticed! The choreography was basic. I've never seen so much pacing and walking on the stage. Where are the Pas de Chats and Royales? Build this team's stamina! Make those Russian Dolls leap with strength! Dancers were not in synch like you should be for an on stage performance (snowflakes/flowers). Lifts were missed!! Center stage dancers were falling out of double Pirouettes! I don't view this disappointing result as an issue of talent. I think the leadership needs to step up and make a better commitment to creating outstanding performances. I would like say I saw sincere passion from two dancers, Katie Tomer and Drew Grant. Amazing, just the way it should it be. Give them better choreography, they can do it!! Most costumes were good. I think the mice were exceptional. But they hit the easy button on Mother Ginger. They rolled a house out. Come on, let's see the big dress! I created a Yelp account just to offer this review because I hope this performance will improve. I want to come back and jump out of my seat with thrill and excitement! Bottom line - basic choreography and not enough practice. Keep trying!! Move to a hall that has a live orchestra too! Maybe that will help the performance come alive?! I wish the team the best. read more

Saw Swan Lake last night. Huge disappointment. First, no live orchestra - the music was played via sound system. Second, the entire show was three and a half hours. And that's because after each act there was a 30 minute plus "break" along with the 45 minute intermission. The dancers themselves were ok. Their synchronization was a bit off - which is extremely evident in a performance like Swan Lake. My boyfriend (first time at the ballet) even commented that the dancing seemed off. They seemed to improve toward the end of the show. Tickets were over-priced for the sub par performance. read more

First, a couple of things to understand before going to see LAB. First, there is no live orchestra. While that certainly would improve the experience (as a professional musician I love hearing a live orchestra), in some of the venues they perform in (the Alex theater, for example) there is no room for an orchestra. Additionally, a live orchestra is quite expensive and unfortunately Los Angeles is not a cultural city that supports it's ballet in the way many large cities do. The company even borrows many sets and costumes, as do many smaller companies, so there certainly isn't a budget for live music. Unless you want to pay double the price for your tickets, accept that it's recorded music. Second, it seems as though a very large percentage of reviewers only see The Nutcracker before passing judgement. If you want to pass judgement on a ballet company, you should go to more than just one performance, especially if that's only The Nutcracker. I have seen every production put on by LAB over the last few years. Some have been stellar, as was this season's Director's Choice. Some have not been as well-performed, but all have been well-staged and over time LAB has been getting better. The company is only 9 years old, and it takes time to get the right combination of performers and repretiore. Even the greatest companies in the world, like the Mariinsky, Eifman, NYCBallet, ABT, etc., have off nights. I know because I've seen some of those nights. And those ballets have the history, support and funding to not only have live music but also recruit the world's limited number of elite dancers. My main complaint isn't the ballet, but the audience. Only when attending LAB shows is late seating allowed. In addition, it's the only ballet I go to where people show up in shorts and tshirts, and talk and text on their phones the entire time. And at a recent performance there was nearly a revolt by a large number of patrons because multiple people chose to bring their infants, who cried and screamed through the entire first act. The narcissism is astounding. LAB is getting better, and the more the city supports it, the better it will become. The current leadership has the experience and credentials to make this a world-class ballet, but it won't happen until Los Angeles decides that there is more to culture than the Hollywood sign and TMZ. read more

I have had the pleasure of attending many amazing performances by this company. My favorite are definitely the contemporary shows. I have seen some of the most beautiful & exciting dances that I have witnessed thus far in my life. I will never forget the dance choreographed by Travis Wall to the music of Queen that took my breathe away. The traditional performances are well done also, but it really depends on preference. I was lucky enough to work near them for a while and must say that the dancers and everyone involved with this company are some of the sweetest & most generous people in the world. I feel truly blessed to have been able to support them. read more

I took my first free Community Class last month and it was awesome. Great level of teaching and combinations. The session given by Susanne Thom, physical therapist for LAB, was informative and taught me how to prevent and heal foot injuries. I will definitely refer other friends to come to their monthly free classes. And the new Don Quixote which opens this month is well anticipated ! read more

We researched and researched and researched ballet schools for our four year old. Since we live in Pasadena there were several places closer to us that we could attend however something drew us to this place. We have had no regret. She loves the class & the friends she is making. The teacher is excellent. She is firm & soft at the same time, which is great combo for my 4 year old (going on 30). They are teaching the kids discipline, focus & the joy of dance. Can't say enough good things about this place. read more

Love taking classes here. Parking is a bit odd tho, on the street and unfortunately sometimes there's tents outside the studio.

**This is for the Nutcracker show on Xmas Eve, with a live orchestra** Over the years I've seen many performances of the Holiday's beloved Nutcracker, and some of them have been very lacking. For the record, I do consider myself somewhat of a Nutcracker "snob." The LA Ballet's performance was pretty good, albeit there was a mishap involving Clara's bed and some ridiculous choreography with the servants in the opening scenes. However, other segments were done really well- particularly the sensual Arabian (coffee) dance, Sugar Plum Fairy's solo, and the Snowflakes/Flowers, which consisted of only the ballerinas. Nobody fell or did anything silly, and the rats were adorable. But next year, do yourself a favor and don't settle for pre-recorded music if you want the REAL experience. The music is just too wonderful for a pre-recorded show. It was never intended to be heard that way, then, now, or ever. read more

Los Angeles has been sorely lacking a ballet company of standing. LAB is it! Most dance fans in this town, are not aware that companies roll through the Music Center downtown, but are not rooted here in the city. Los Angeles Ballet is just that. They perform across town in 3 venues per performance rep: West LA at UCLA or the Broad Stage; the Alex Theatre, Glendale and Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. The quality of the dancing is stunning. Check out performances and reviews at the LAB website: http://www.losangelesballet.org Support the arts in LA and go see Los Angeles Ballet! read more

I went to see the Nutcracker in December 2014. What a disappointment! 1. Act get me thinking:" Is this a pantomime or a ballet performance?" I have never seen so many unnecessary face expressions and almost no movement! Oh wait, is this a school performance? Bc It looked very poor! No orchestra playing, just speakers. There was no a stage presence from the dancers, no magical atmosphere in the audiance, just nothing special. Costumes were fine, but not a mind blowing, stage decoration very poor and small. The female dancers were quite big. Just details like that ruined the whole production. I think they should change their name, bc LA is a mecca of art, entertainment and quality. There are very high expectations from a compeny with such a big name! This was a very good school performance, not a professional ballet number. The best dancer was Allynne Noelle! Please, change your name and leave it to the professionals, thank you :) read more

The blond guy who took audition paperwork for the summer intensive was rude, and treated me with contempt. We had never been to the school before and was I curious because my daughter currently attends another Westside ballet program. It was shocking the school would have him interact with potential students and parents. I will not go back read more

~ Now...I went with my pal to see Nutcracker Ballet last night....I don't even know where to start with this one....Several years ago when I was in Moscow, I saw Nutcracker in hopes of experiencing this masterpiece once more in Los Angeles...since, the story always fascinated me as a child....~ Well...well....it all started without the Orchestra; they were playing the music at the background....then, an stage that looked less than better than your own high school stage marked in small highlighted areas....the decoration was so limited and cheap...~ then, the curtain dropped, and the action started......I did not see any trace of snow...at the very beginning...oh...when it came to the eccentric uncle part with the heavy coats...oh my Dear...so outrageously awkward, then, as the show moved on, all the ballet dancers...danced, more to say landed down on the stage so "tapal..tapal...meaning stumpy...the choreography was zero tombs up, and the whole time...my pal and I could not stop laughing, and at the same time be so disappointed at the show....I will have to hike mountain Everest before I would see any other performance with this company....End. read more

Only 10 years old and great dancers. This review is based on the Nutcracker performed at Royce Hall. With a city as large as Los Angeles, it is great to have a ballet company that tours the city so everyone has easy access to their performances. This was one drawback to the dream sequence in Act I where I have seen performances that the Christmas Tree grows enormously nearly filling the stage and giving a chilling moment. This production, it does grow, slightly, but one has to remember that have to be able to pack the set up and move to another theater. Currently, the ballet company dances to recorded music which means that if the dancers get ahead or slow down, the orchestra cannot adjust. This was not a problem in this performance which proved they had grueling rehearsals. The ending was a little different from what I remember other productions to have, but a research found there are several endings to the Nutcracker. I was displeased with the audience and ushers being able to come and go during the show. Usually, once you leave, you wait until the end of the act to return. Many audience members were fiddling with their mobiles and I am not sure what was worse, that or the "cell phone Nazis" AKA ushers walking up and down the aisle to tell the audience to put the phone away. In fact the ushers were doing a lot of pacing up and down the aisle. I don't know if they are ballet staff or Royce Hall staff. read more