Backstage Nutcracker Magic: Photo Essay

PNB School students in The Nutcracker, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
October 2025

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is the Northwest’s favorite holiday tradition. This beloved ballet has delighted audiences in Seattle and beyond for 10 years this season at Pacific Northwest Ballet! You’ve seen it onstage, but have you ever wondered what The Nutcracker looks like from backstage? Get an insider sneak peek in this festive photo essay from the creation of the costumes to the special moments after the performance!

Scenic and Costume Designer Ian Falconer backstage, photo © Angela Sterling.
Peter Boal rehearses with PNB School students, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB dressing room, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
Elle Macy as Dewdrop prepares to go onstage, photo © Angela Sterling.
Former PNB Company dancer Emma Love Suddarth preps for The Nutcracker, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
Waltz of the Flowers costumes backstage, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
PNB School students in The Nutcracker, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
PNB Company dancers as Mice backstage, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB School students in The Nutcracker, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB School students in The Nutcracker, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
PNB Orchestra, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB Company dancers in The Nutcracker, photo © Angela Sterling.
Angelica Generosa warms up before a performance of The Nutcracker, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
PNB Company dancers and PNB School students, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB School students during an onstage rehearsal, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB School student, photo © Lindsay Thomas.
Peter Boal gives notes onstage, photo © Angela Sterling.
Amanda Morgan as the Sugar Plum Fairy, photo © Angela Sterling.
Noelani Pantastico after a performance, photo © Angela Sterling.
PNB Company dancers, photo © Angela Sterling.

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