Warner Grand Theatre Will Host Nutcracker in December 2026
The historic San Pedro venue will partially reopen following extensive renovations for safety and accessibility.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Dance
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The Warner Grand Theatre in Los Angeles will partially reopen for limited programming beginning in December 2026. The San Pedro City Ballet will headline the return with performances of The Nutcracker from December 11-13.
Why it matters
The limited reopening follows two years of major renovations aimed at bringing the 1931 landmark into compliance with modern ADA, fire safety, and building standards. These upgrades ensure the historic venue remains a functional cultural hub for the local San Pedro community.
The San Pedro City Ballet will feature 150 dancers during the run of The Nutcracker. Tickets for the holiday production are priced between $45 and $58.
The players
Warner Grand Theatre
This historic venue in San Pedro originally opened in 1931 and is owned by the city of Los Angeles.
San Pedro City Ballet
This local dance organization is scheduled to lead the theater's reopening programming with a holiday production.
The details
Renovations focused on structural integrity and accessibility, including earthquake retrofitting, the installation of an exterior elevator, and the addition of new bathrooms. The project also preserved the site's character through historical paint restoration and the replacement of windows.
Timeline
January 20, 1931: The Warner Grand Theatre original opening.
January 2024: Theater closed for renovation work.
December 16, 2024: Construction for theater upgrades began.
October 1, 2026: Tickets for ballet performances go on sale.
December 11-13, 2026: Warner Grand Theatre hosts The Nutcracker performances.
Industry Dynamics
The reopening follows a broader trend of municipalities investing in the rehabilitation of historic theaters to revitalize local arts districts. By balancing historical preservation with modern ADA compliance, the project mirrors efforts seen in other cities to modernize aging cultural infrastructure.
Local residents can secure seats for the holiday ballet starting in October 2026 to experience the newly renovated space. The reopening restores access to a landmark venue for community events, film screenings, and live performances throughout 2027.
The takeaway
The return of the Warner Grand Theatre highlights the critical role of city-funded infrastructure projects in sustaining local performing arts. Residents should monitor future city announcements as the theater transitions from limited programming to a full schedule in 2027.
What happens next
Tickets for the ballet performances will go on sale to the public on October 1, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming performances and the historic venue, visit Los Angeles Dance.
More information
For show details and to secure your seats, visit the ballet performance tickets and information.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Press Telegram.
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