The Nutcracker Bird FAQs
Know-Before-You-Go!
What does my ticket include?
Every ticket includes the performance, complimentary sweet treats and refreshments in the lobby before the show, and an invitation to join us on the stage and floor of the theater for the special Sunlight & Moonlight Fairy Party to meet the cast of characters for photos and autographs after the performance.
Can I get a refund if I am no longer able to attend?
Please contact tickets@berkeleyballet.org with as much notice as possible in advance for assistance.
How long is the performance?
About 70 minutes with no intermission. The lobby will open an hour before performances, seating will open 30 minutes before the show.
Do I need to print out my tickets?
Don't worry about printing the physical tickets that were sent to you! Screenshots are fine, just have your tickets ready to show the ushers to direct you to your seat. The Box Office will open an hour before the performances and can look up your order if you need, just be sure to plan additional time.
How early should I arrive at the theater?
At least 30 minutes before the performance. We recommend planning to arrive an hour early for parking and potential traffic, to enjoy complimentary sweet treats and light refreshments in our lobby, and to have time for the restroom before the show starts.
Can I eat or drink in the theater?
Outside food and drink is not permitted, but sweet treats and light refreshments from the lobby are permitted. Please be sure to bring any trash with you as you exit!
Where can I park?
Parking is free and available at the theater.
What happens if I’m running late?
If the performance has already begun, for the safety and consideration of seated guests, ticketholders arriving late may be asked to sit in a different section than your tickets indicate. You may also be asked to wait to be seated until an applause break.
Can I bring a camera and take photographs?
For the safety of the performers, photos or video recording is not permitted during the performance. Please also keep any cell phones, tablets, or toys silenced and put away during the show.
Is the venue and theater wheelchair accessible?
The venue is ADA accessible. Sections are marked as ADA in the seating chart to purchase when needed. If tickets in all ADA sections appear unavailable, please contact tickets@berkeleyballet.org.
Are there many stairs and steps in the venue?
There are stairs to the main seating areas, so please plan accordingly. If you or someone in your party are unable to climb any stairs or steps, please select a seat in the ADA section or reach out to tickets@berkeleyballet.org.
Transportation:
Bus: Take the AC Transit 54 line to Redwood Rd and Mountain Blvd (Lincoln Square) and walk about 11 minutes to Valley Center for the Performing Arts
BART: Take the Orange Line Berryessa/North San Jose train to Fruitvale Station, then take the AC Transit 54 bus to Redwood Rd and Mountain Blvd (Lincoln Square) and walk about 11 minutes to Valley Center for the Performing Arts
If driving (from Berkeley Ballet), get on CA-13 S from Gilman St, then onto CA-24 E in Oakland. Follow CA-24 E and CA-13 S to Redwood Rd, take exit 1C from CA-13 S, and follow Redwood Rd and Mountain Blvd to the venue.
For additional inquiries, please email the Box Office at tickets@berkeleyballet.org
Clara, Charlie, and a Nutcracker Bird, photo by Tricia Cronin
Sunlight Fairy and Sunbeams, photo by Tricia Cronin