‘Nutcracker’ and more!

TWO FOR THE SHOW: Sarah Richards and Jim Hutchison enjoyed Ballet Hawaii's opening night gala dinner reception that preceded the performance. The menu included specialties from 10 restaurants, and although the lamb chops ran out early, Compadres' excellent fish tacos were a big hit until show time. Several tables were outside the tent, but luckily it didn't rain.

DANIEL J DIGS BALLET: Honolulu Ballet director Steve Knox, left, talked to Rebekah Long and DJ Daniel J during intermission. Although Daniel J has been known for years as a pioneer on the progressive club music scene, he says he's open to many kinds of music. Catch him Saturdays at the Buddha Bar.

TOO YOUNG FOR VODKA: Mark Tucker, third from left, enjoyed the "Nutcracker" post-show party with Honolulu Symphony conductor Stuart Chafetz, left, Ballet Hawaii Artistic Director Pamela Taylor-Tong and guest star Michael Vernon. Tucker, 16, was a strong "second Russian" but couldn't celebrate with a shot of vodka.

GETTING JAZ'ED: Veteran comic Jaz Kaner, center, talked with Irwin P.K. Santos, left, and emcee Brian Lentz after he opened a five-nighter at Sharkey's Comedy Club on Wednesday. Kaner made the crowd part of an impressive show and capped his set with musical impressions. And yes, he still does the "ear thing."