A Three-Generation Nutcracker Legacy with Ballet West

In 1955, when Ballet West's first Nutcracker production was performed in Salt Lake City, 14-year-old Steven Horton stepped into the role of the Nutcracker Prince, unknowingly beginning a family legacy that would span three generations performing in Utah's most beloved holiday tradition.

Horton’s father, a family physician who grew up on a farm before settling near Liberty Park, was passionate about bringing arts to the community. In the 1940s and 50s, he spent countless hours on fundraising initiatives to enhance the arts in Salt Lake, often collaborating with the founder of Ballet West, Willam Christensen.

When Mr. C's Nutcracker premiered, Horton wasn't alone in representing the family on stage. His brother joined the production, and Horton continued his role as Nutcracker Prince for six or seven seasons, paired with Nila Speck as Clara, who later became Horton’s wife.

For their son Devin Horton, the Nutcracker was woven into his earliest Christmas memories with his own performance as a mouse in his early teens. Now, in Ballet West's 80th anniversary season, the third generation of Hortons has taken the stage. Nine-year-old Lilly Horton, Devin's daughter, performs as a buffoon, carrying forward her family's artistic legacy.

"I really like that I get to be with all the professional dancers," Lilly Horton shares. "I really like the music – it's very Christmassy and magical, and I love that it's a story about a girl's dream."

For Devin Horton, watching his daughter perform holds special significance. "There's a deep sense of connection to Ballet West and the Capitol Theatre,” said Devin Horton. This production connects us to our roots. It's grown into its own thing now with new faces, and we watch, knowing our family helped build this tradition.”