Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the dark side of Christmas with The Realm Company’s presentation of “Krampus.” This immersive ballet experience promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of dark fantasy and classical dance, offering a fresh take on holiday entertainment. For a long time, Hollywood has been obsessed with Villains, even fantastical ones. Walt Disney theme parks have a night of villains every year during their Halloween celebrations, and they release films like Maleficent and Cruella. Theatrical seekers want to know why and how villains became who they are and what wicked things they do. Get ready for a gripping Yuletide experience as The Realm Company presents the captivating anti-hero Krampus in an engaging edgy ballet on December 6th, 7th, and 8th, 2024, at the Convoy Studios in Culver City, California! But beware, this holiday horror immersive barbarous ballet encounter may scare you into being naughty or nice. Parental guidance is suggested. Tickets are on sale now.

The Realm Company in rehearsal for "Krampus" choreography by Chasen Greenwood - Photo by Hannah Cox Photography.

The Realm Company in rehearsal for “Krampus” choreography by Chasen Greenwood – Photo by Hannah Cox Photography.

The folklore of Krampus originated in pre-Christian pagan traditions throughout Northern, Eastern and Central European countries, eventually crossing over into Christmas traditions. Throughout Europe. This ancient spirit became the punisher of misbehaved children who didn’t make Santa’s nice list. Krampus originates from the old Germanic word Krampen, which means “claw.”  This German and Austrian festive folklore that spread throughout Europe and the United States, describes a half-demon, half-goat creature who searches for misbehaving children. In the stories, Krampus arrives along with benevolent St. Nicholas and is often referred to as St. Nicholas’s evil twin. The naughty kids and adults could experience the wrath of Krampus by being beaten and dragged to hell. Artistic Director of The Realm Company Chasen Greenwood has embarked on a mission to bring out the shadowy side of conventional ballet by luring the attendees each night into an exploration of Krampus’s lair. Greenwood reveals, “Our goal is to combine beauty and terror in a bold, immersive evening that promises to leave audiences craving more.”

Chasen Greenwood - Photo by Emily DeVito Goodman

Chasen Greenwood – Photo by Emily DeVito Goodman.

While interviewing Greenwood he elucidates, “I want to do a different holiday sensation, not just fluff.”  He continues, “The Realm Company is about changing the classic story into a subliminal darker viewpoint.”   In the heart of “Krampus,” the immersive ballet experience, lies a team of visionary creatives who bring this dark fantasy to life. At the helm is Chasen Greenwood, the Artistic Director and choreographer, whose innovative approach transforms customary ballet into a thrilling exploration of the sinister legend of Krampus. Greenwood, inspired by the likes of Tim Burton and Quentin Tarantino, aims to captivate audiences with a blend of beauty and terror, crafting a performance that is both family-friendly and intriguingly suspenseful. Parental guidance is suggested for children coming to this obscure generated atmosphere. Greenwood’s vision is complemented by the hauntingly evocative original score composed by the extraordinary Taylor Briggs, a Berklee College of Music graduate. Briggs’s music captures the essence of Krampus, weaving an unsettling atmosphere that heightens the sense of danger and suspense throughout the performance.

The Realm Company in rehearsal for "Krampus" choreography by Chasen Greenwood - Photo by Hannah Cox Photography.

The Realm Company in rehearsal for “Krampus” choreography by Chasen Greenwood – Photo by Hannah Cox Photography.

Adding to the team’s prowess is actress Beth Broderick, who serves as a board member for The Realm Company. Her involvement underscores the depth of talent and support behind this ambitious production. Together, Greenwood and Briggs, with the backing of Broderick and the rest of the creative team, have crafted a unique holiday experience that challenges the conventional narrative, inviting audiences to delve into a world where classical ballet meets the dark allure of folklore. As you prepare to witness this extraordinary performance, rest assured that the artistic team has meticulously designed an evening that promises to be as enchanting as it is thrilling, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey into the lair of Krampus.

The Realm Company in rehearsal for "Krampus" choreography by Chasen Greenwood - Photo by Hannah Cox Photography

The Realm Company in rehearsal for “Krampus” choreography by Chasen Greenwood – Photo by Hannah Cox Photography.

Mark your calendars for this unforgettable event that will redefine your holiday experience. Audiences will be gifted this dimmer existence on three doomful December days in Los Angeles’s Culver City area. This classic tale of the darker side of Christmas will take audiences through an immersive multimedia experience with projection, ballet dancers, and an original music score. You might want to do something different or step out of your comfort zone for a night of terror, suspense, and uneasiness as you visit a classic cryptic holiday horror tale of old with a spin.

Tickets and Location Details

Tickets are available starting at $53.65 and may be securely purchased online at https://www.simpletix.com/e/realm-presents-krampus-tickets-192394 

Krampus will be performed at Convoy Studios, 3764 Glendon Avenue in Los Angeles.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the 7:30 Friday and Saturday performances, and at 3 p.m. for the Sunday 4 p.m. performance.

All performances are about 50 minutes long, followed with sponsored wine, Prosecco, and mingling with the cast.

Free parking is available directly across the street from the venue and all ticket buyers will be provided with a map.

For more information about The Realm Company, please visit their website.


Written by Alice Alyse for LA Dance Chronicle.

Featured image: The Realm Company in rehearsal for “Krampus” choreography by Chasen Greenwood – Photo by Hannah Cox Photography