Money Trouble Cancels ‘Nutcracker’ for S.D.

The San Francisco Ballet has canceled its performances of “The Nutcracker” in San Diego Thanksgiving week, according to San Diego Performances director Suzanne Townsend.

Joyce Moffatt, general manager of the San Francisco Ballet, said in a letter, “We have enjoyed the opportunity to perform for San Diego audiences over the past two years,” but stressed that “fiscal considerations” prevented a return this season.

San Diego Performances’ fiscal problems include a $450,000 debt, much of it to dance companies and musicians who performed under its auspices last season.

“We still have a lot of fund raising,” Townsend acknowledged, “but we plan to move ahead with our season.” The season includes a November performance by the Paul Taylor Dance Company and performances in January by the Dance Theater of Harlem.

“Nutcracker” ticket holders can request a refund from the presenter or accept tickets for March performances of the American Ballet Theatre’s “Romeo and Juliet” at the Orange County Performing Arts Center.