Tim Burton’s ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ isn’t your usual festive film. It’s not all jolly Santa and talking reindeer. It’s a quirky classic which has grown in fame for its beautiful animation and instantly recognizable score. But, what many people of San Francisco don’t know, is it was brought to life in the heart of the SoMa district. The San Francisco Symphony’s concert dedicated to the score may be sold out, but Candlelight is stepping in with more festive concert options.
Things you didn’t know about ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’
Inside an unmarked warehouse, Henry Selick and the talented Skellington Productions crew brought the film to life over the course of three years. The team worked tirelessly, crafting over 110,000 frames across 20 stages, with every puppet handmade and each scene built one photo at a time. Selick remarked that Burton had very little to do with the production. So, I think that means San Francisco can take even more credit for the beautiful film.
Unsurprisingly, a film as wonderfully unique as ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ comes with a score that matches its magic perfectly. Danny Elfman’s score strikes the perfect balance between darkness and delight, capturing the contrast of the two worlds with music that’s both haunting and whimsical. It shapes the story’s tone and story, making the film as much Elfman’s creation, as it is Selick’s or Burton’s.
Festive soundtrack concerts this holiday season
This holiday season, the San Francisco Symphony is honoring the iconic score with a special concert in early December—already sold out. However, more of these special concert viewings are taking place this December with screenings, and performances of festive favorites like Home Alone, The Holiday, and more.
But if your looking for something cheaper, but still festive, Candlelight are hosting a series of Christmas concerts too! With evenings dedicated to Christmas carols, to performances of seasonal favorites like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and Vivaldi’s Winter, Candlelight has plenty to offer throughout the festive season.