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The 5th Annual Culture Shock San Diego Production is set for Jan. 5-7, 2018

Written By: Jordan Ligons

Photography Provided By: Marilen Tran

Your favorite ballet just got an upgrade! At the historic Spreckels Theatre Jan. 5-7, 2018, Culture Shock San Diego is putting on their very own rendition of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, but with a hip-hop flare. Enjoy Tap, Krump, Contemporary and Popping along with references to everything from Star Wars to David Bowie’s Labyrinth—this pop-culture holiday theatrical will have you wanting to get up and dance along!

Since its inception, Angie Bunch, co-owner of Culture Shock Dance Center and director of A Culture Shock Nutcracker, says the show has evolved into more than simply a dance performance. “I can’t imagine putting on the same show every year,” Bunch adds. “Each year, we build a brand new soundtrack, pull relevant references from movies, TV, news, YouTube, etc. to use to tell our story. The same basic story foundation each year, but with twists.” Bunch has over 45 years of experience in the dance world including stints with Nike dance and fitness programs.

For their fifth year, they’re switching things up a little bit. “The audience can expect a Nutcracker unlike any other,” Bunch says. “This year, I felt it was time to introduce two daddies as the Stahlbaum parents. It accurately represents the diversity of our community and has been a lot of fun to play around with. I am not trying to be contentious, just realistic.” Another switch is the opening number; audience can expect a Broadway-esque Tap number, which plans to pay homage to the latest Beauty and the Beast film—we can’t wait!

The nonprofit organization is made up of Culture Shock (adults), Future Shock (teens), Mighty Shock (tweens) and Mini Shock (little ones), which will all be apart of the holiday show. With a full cast of over a 100 dancers for this production, everyone from leads to back ups have been training, preparing and rehearsing for a four-month stretch. Halle Taft is cast as Clara Stahlbaum and is a Future Shock alumna. “I’m very excited to be playing the role of Clara this year,” says the 17-year-old. “I’ve been working really hard and can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on!”

Tickets are available here for seven shows only. Make your holiday season more up-beat and get your tickets now!

Native Knowledge: If after the show you get so inspired and feel the urge to move your feet, check out one of Culture Shock’s dance classes that are open to everyone! Whether it’s for cardio or wanting to fine tune your technique, there’s a class that you must try.

Culture Shock San Diego
2110 Hancock St, Ste 200
San Diego, CA 92110
619.299.2110

Spreckels Theatre
121 Broadway
San Diego, CA 92101
619.235.9500
Culture Shock San Diego Puts a Pop Culture Twist on The Nutcracker