‘The Nutcracker’ in 1912 California

THE costumes are imported from the Royal Danish Ballet, but sets for the Los Angeles Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” will be California-flavored, says set designer Catherine Kanner.

Artistic directors Colleen Neary and Thordal Christensen are Royal Danish Ballet veterans, which explains the costume donations. But the clothes will fit in just fine, Kanner says, with her concept of setting the ballet in 1912 California -- in a Spanish style home that combines Mexican, Spanish and European influences.

Kanner, an artist whose illustrations have appeared on the editorial pages of The Times, says she was more interested in magic than historical and geographical accuracy.

“There will be subtle California flavors throughout, but I didn’t want to hammer it too hard.”

Although loath to spoil the fantasy by revealing too much, Kanner says the snow scenes are inspired by photographs of the Sierras. And there is one touch that’s strictly for Angelenos: The opening scrim is painted with two angels -- “Los Angeles” -- one holding a bouquet of calla lilies that Kanner says may remind viewers of the work of muralist Diego Rivera.

The ballet opens Dec. 2 at the Wilshire Theatre with repeat engagements through December at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center and the Alex Theatre in Glendale.

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Diane Haithman