The TERI Players Presents: Once Upon a Nutcracker

Once Upon a Nutcracker: An Original Holiday Musical

Christmas Eve is supposed to be a time of joy, but for Clara, everything that can go wrong does! From a power outage and missed alarm to a missed bus and an unexpected job loss, her holiday is shaping up to be a complete disaster.

Just when all hope seems lost, a childhood friend comes to life and whisks Clara away on a magical journey of discovery, possibility, and hope. Could her most disastrous Christmas Eve become the beginning of something extraordinary? After all, anything is possible at Christmas!

Join the TERI Players for Once Upon a Nutcracker, a new, original musical inspired by the music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. This heartwarming holiday production brings together music, imagination, and the magic of the season in a story about finding hope when life takes an unexpected turn.

Celebrate the wonder of live theatre and discover how even the messiest Christmas Eve can lead to a little holiday magic!

Make Once Upon a Nutcracker part of your holiday tradition!

• Written by Jennie Rutowski

• Directed and choreographed by Jennie Rutowski and Skye Kressin

• Lyrics by Jennie Rutowski and Therese Gibbons

• Musical adaptation by Therese Gibbons and Kyle Ramirez

• Costume design by Skye Kressin and Emily Friesen

• Cinematography by JD Martin

Known for their popular live theater productions, the TERI Players are a dynamic ensemble of adults with special needs who participate in TERI’s adult day programs. Since 2009, they have delighted audiences with professional-quality, inclusive performances while developing their talents as actors, singers, dancers, and filmmakers. Working alongside TERI professionals, the TERI Players gain hands-on training and performance experience as they pursue their creative passions. Over 15 years later, the TERI Players are redefining what community theater can be as the resident company of The Bornemann Theatre.

ADMISSION INFO

• All ages are welcome. Please note that children who do not sit on a lap will require their own ticket.

• Limited ADA Seating! Please email boxoffice@thebornemann.com to request the code for ADA seating.

DINING

Make your visit a full experience with a meal or refreshments at TERI Common Grounds Café, conveniently located onsite at the Campus of Life. On weekends, enjoy dinner from 4pm - 8pm or brunch from 8am to 2pm—perfect for a bite before an evening or matinee performance. Café availability may vary by event, so check your show details for the latest information. View menus here.

LEARN WHY YOUR TICKET MATTERS
The Bornemann Theatre & TERI Campus of Life - Supporting the Special Needs Community and Greater San Diego

When you purchase a ticket to a show at The Bornemann Theatre, you’re supporting individuals with special needs – and the families who walk alongside them. For over 45 years, TERI Campus of Life has transformed lives through specialized programs and services. Mission-driven businesses – like The Bornemann and TERI Common Grounds Café – welcome the community, creating a place where inclusion is a way of life and all abilities are celebrated. Learn more at tericampusoflife.org.  

Come for the performance. Leave knowing you made a difference.