SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET ANNOUNCES NASHVILLE-BASED AUDITION FOR 2026 SUMMER INTENSIVES SET FOR JANUARY 31, 2026

School of Nashville Ballet has announced details for a Nashville-based audition for its 2026 Summer Intensive sessions including the Company Immersion Intensive. The Summer Intensive Audition Tour will conclude with an in-house audition on January 31, 2026, from 3:30-6 PM.  

Dancers who participate in the Summer Intensive sessions will be automatically considered for Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2) and select year-round training programs.  Auditions are open to dancers ages 12 and up and registration will close the Wednesday prior to each audition or when capacity is reached. 

Summer Intensive Program 

A featured offering is the Company Immersion Intensive, recommended for dancers ages 17–22 with pre-professional or professional experience. This selective five-week program focuses on advanced technical training, expanded repertoire and immersive performance opportunities. 

Led by Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet, the program transitions in its final two weeks into a company-style experience. Dancers take daily classes and rehearsals while collaborating with guest choreographers and Nashville-based musicians. The experience culminates in a live performance at The Martin Center at Nashville Ballet, offering dancers insight into the demands of life as a professional ballet dancer. 

"This is not a workshop, it’s professional-level training with real expectations,” said Dmitri Kulev, incoming Director of Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2) and Head of Men’s Program. “We are preparing dancers for the demands of today’s ballet world. Our goal is for every student to leave stronger, more confident and clearer about their artistic path.” 

Audition Details 

$45 pre-registration 

$50 walk-ins 

Applicants must submit a resume, headshot and photo in first arabesque.

“We challenge dancers to grow while honoring what makes each artist unique,” said Jennifer Kulev, School of Nashville Director. “These intensives emphasize discipline, discovery and developing the confidence to step into the next phase of training.” 

In addition to the Summer Intensive sessions, School of Nashville Ballet offers Junior and Adult Intensives, providing high-quality training for dancers at different stages in a supportive, structured environment. No audition is required for these programs. 

Junior and Adult Intensives 

Junior Intensive (ages 9-13 or technical placement): School of Nashville Ballet students must have completed Academy Level 2 or have received special invitations. Outside students must have 2+ years of ballet training. 

Immerse your young dancer in a focused environment with Nashville Ballet’s faculty, providing them with a full-day intensive training to get a leg up in their future dance studies, technique and artistry by participating in our Junior Intensive program this summer.  

Through a combination of ballet, pre-pointe, repertory, jazz, character and other specialized workshops, students will grow their technique, strength and artistry and will leave with the knowledge and skills to reach the next level in their training.  

Students will participate in classes from approximately 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday – Friday, June 1-5 and 8-12, for either one or two weeks. Time will be built into their daily schedule for lunch.   

Adult Intensive (ages 18+): Open to the Nashville community and all levels of experience are welcome.  Designed to keep adult dancers on their toes, this two-week event provides an opportunity for participants to leap into a variety of movement-based classes.   

In addition to classical ballet technique taught by members of Nashville Ballet's professional Company and faculty, dancers will get to sample an eclectic array of dance-based genres, broadening their knowledge of the artform. This is a not-to-be-missed chance for every dancer to challenge their endurance, hone their skills and refine their artistry while in a warm and welcoming environment.   

Adult Intensive Classes will be held in the evenings Monday – Friday with a ballet technique class followed by a supplementary class. Participants are welcome to enroll for one week, both weeks, or drop in as their schedule allows. 

For details on Nashville auditions and program information, visit https://www.nashvilleballet.com/audition-tour or email intensive@nashvilleballet.com.

NASHVILLE BALLET ANNOUNCES NB2 LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

Maria Konrad Stepping Into New Artistic Chapter; Dmitri Kulev Named Incoming Director of NB2

Nashville Ballet announces a leadership transition within Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2). After a meaningful and impactful chapter with the organization, Maria Konrad, Director of NB2, has decided to move on to pursue artistic projects, both nationally and internationally.  Konrad will remain with the company through the end of the 2025–26 season. She is currently choreographing a ballet for the main Company titled DEA that will be paired with Sherlock as part of the annual Attitude series as well as community programming slated for later this spring.

During her tenure, NB2 experienced significant artistic growth, strengthened community engagement and continued to evolve as a vital bridge between NB2 and the Company.  Konrad brought a distinctive creative voice to the studio, one that made dancers feel seen while encouraging individuality, rigor and artistic curiosity. Her spirit and influence will remain a lasting part of the company culture.  

“Stepping into the role of Director for NB2 has been so meaningful for me as an artist and mentor,” said Maria Konrad, Director of NB2. “After creating work all over the world, being able to make art at what has been my home for the last three years, where I’ve invested so much of myself, carries a unique weight and significance. I am thrilled to have planted seeds and be part of Nashville Ballet as they move into the future.”

A graduate of A.W. Dreyfoos High School of the Arts and holder of a BFA from The University of the Arts, Konrad is an internationally recognized choreographer whose work has been commissioned and presented by leading institutions worldwide. Her choreography has appeared at the International Nervi Festival in Italy, the Spoleto Festival and with companies including Nashville Ballet, Oklahoma City Ballet II and Kansas City Ballet.  She has been recognized multiple times by Youth America Grand Prix for Outstanding Choreography and is widely respected as a master teacher, mentor and advocate for the next generation of dance artists.

“Maria has been an extraordinary partner in shaping NB2 into a dynamic, artist-centered program,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO of Nashville Ballet. “Her leadership, generosity and creative vision have elevated our dancers and our organization in meaningful ways.  While we will miss her day-to-day presence, we are incredibly grateful for her contributions and excited to continue collaborating with her on future projects as her artistic journey expands.”

While stepping away from her role as Director of NB2, Konrad will remain connected to Nashville Ballet through future collaborations and the organization will continue to perform select works she created during her time here.

As part of this transition, Nashville Ballet is pleased to announce that Co-Director of School of Nashville Ballet, Dmitri Kulev, will step into the role of Director of NB2 at the conclusion of 2025-26 season, while continuing his leadership of the Young Men’s Scholarship Program and remaining an active faculty member at the School of Nashville Ballet.

Dmitri Kulev received his training at the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet School and performed internationally with the Bolshoi Ballet Theatre before dancing as a principal with companies including Ballet Arizona, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, and Fort Worth Dallas Ballet. As an educator, he is known for his charismatic teaching style and deep foundation in the Vaganova method, and his students have gone on to receive top honors and scholarships at elite training institutions worldwide.

Company statistics show that more than 55% of Nashville Ballet Company members and apprentices began their careers with NB2, many after training at School of Nashville Ballet.  Dmitri Kulev’s extensive experience within the School and his commitment to mentorship uniquely position him to continue strengthening this pipeline and supporting dancers’ progression into professional careers.

In addition, Jennifer Kulev will serve as the sole Director of the School of Nashville Ballet, providing focused leadership for the institution’s training programs. A former principal dancer with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Jennifer Kulev brings decades of professional and pedagogical experience. Trained at the School of American Ballet and with esteemed teachers across the country, her repertoire spans classical and neoclassical works by choreographers including George Balanchine, Ben Stevenson, and Stanton Welch. As an educator, she is known for her emphasis on precise technique, turnout, and artistry.



“This transition reflects both gratitude and excitement,” Mullikin added.  “We honor Maria’s remarkable contributions and look forward to the leadership, continuity and vision that Dmitri and Jennifer Kulev bring as we continue to invest in the future of Nashville Ballet and its artists.”

SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET ANNOUNCES NATIONAL AUDITION TOUR THIS JANUARY AND FEBRUARY FOR THEIR 2026 SUMMER INTENSIVES

Company’s Strategic Leadership to Conduct Audition Tour Seeking Nation’s Top Talent

School of Nashville Ballet has announced dates and cities for the national audition tour for their 2026 Summer Intensives to include Nashville Ballet’s Company Immersion Intensive, Contemporary Intensive and more. The 2026 audition tour will kick off on January 10, 2026, in Oceanside, CA and run through January 31 in Dallas, TX. The auditions will conclude with Nashville Ballet’s NSIA Auditions on February 8 at Nashville Ballet.  School of Nashville Ballet is looking for students ages 12 and up. Registration for each city will end on the Wednesday prior to each audition location or when the audition is full. Dancers who participate in any audition will automatically be considered for our Second Company, NB2 and the school’s Professional Training Division.

An exciting program offering of note is Nashville Ballet's Company Immersion Intensive recommended for ages 17 - 22 with pre-professional or professional dance experience.  This is a selective five-week program designed to turn students into well-rounded artists. With the guidance of our experienced artistic staff, including our CEO and Artistic Director, Nick Mullikin, students will expand their choreographic repertoire, refine their technique and develop their artistry through a variety of advanced training sessions. 

In the final two weeks, the program will transform into an immersive company experience, allowing dancers to explore what life is like as a company member. Participants will take daily class and engage in rehearsals while collaborating with exclusive choreographers and Nashville-based musicians. This structured environment will provide insight into the dedication, teamwork and innovation required in a professional setting. The dancer’s efforts will culminate in a performance at Nashville Ballet’s Martin Center.  

Under the guidance of renowned directors, Dmitri and Jennifer Kulev, School of Nashville Ballet has significantly enhanced its performance opportunities, offering more comprehensive stage experiences for both the Academy and Pre-Professional divisions to showcase their skills and development in professional settings.  In addition, the school is growing their Young Men’s Scholarship Program and is dedicated to transforming the skills and performance of male-identifying dancers of all ages.  

“At Nashville Ballet’s Summer Intensive, we challenge each dancer while nurturing their individual artistry,” said Jennifer Kulev, Director of School of Nashville Ballet. “We want students to feel supported as they grow, take risks and discover who they are as artists.”

“This program is designed to build strength and refine technique while also inspiring creativity,” said newly named Second Company Director Dmitri Kulev. “Our goal is for every dancer to leave with a deeper understanding of their craft and the confidence to pursue their dreams.”

Nashville Ballet’s strategic leadership on the tour will include Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO, School Director Jennifer Kulev and Dmitri Kulev, who will be taking over as Second Company Director in summer of 2026. In addition, on tour will be esteemed members of the school team Kate Kastelnik and Janna Kirova.

Audition applications require a registration fee of $45 for pre-registration, $50 for walk-ins and $55 for video auditions as well as a resume, headshot and photo in first arabesque. For more information on the tour dates, times and locations, please visit www.nashvilleballet.com/audition-tour or email intensive@nashvilleballet.com.

NASHVILLE BALLET ANNOUNCES FINAL DETAILS AND PRINCIPAL CAST FOR BELOVED HOLIDAY CLASSIC NASHVILLE’S NUTCRACKER

Nashville’s Nutcracker Kicks Off the Holiday Season Thanksgiving Weekend at Tennessee Performing Arts Center with Performances November 29 - December 28, 2025

Children are Invited to Participate in Pre-Performance Story Time, Meet & Greets with Nutcracker Characters and More

Nashville Ballet has announced the final details and talented principal cast of company dancers that will lead the beloved holiday classic, Paul Vasterling’s Nashville's Nutcracker, along with The Nashville Symphony, that is returning to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall starting Thanksgiving weekend, Saturday, November 29 through Sunday, December 28, 2025.

These Nashville Ballet Company Dancers will perform various principal roles throughout this spectacular, unique-to-Nashville production of Nashville’s Nutcracker (in alphabetical order):

Justin Abel as Snow King

Joshua Binowitz as Sugar Plum Cavalier and Nutcracker Prince

Celeste Borman as Sugar Plum Fairy and Dew Drop Fairy

Kennedy Brown as Snow Queen and Dew Drop Fairy

Michael Burfield as Nutcracker Prince

Shaiya Donohue as Nutcracker Prince

Will Giannuzzi as Nutcracker Prince

Anneliese Guerin as Dew Drop Fairy

Jamie Kopit as Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen

James Lankford as Sugar Plum Cavalier and Snow King

Garritt McCabe as Sugar Plum Cavalier and Snow King

Jack Owen as Nutcracker Prince

Jorge Emilio Peña as Sugar Plum Cavalier and Snow King

Sarah Pierce as Sugar Plum Fairy and Dew Drop Fairy

Lily Saito as Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen

Brett Sjoblom as Sugar Plum Cavalier and Snow King

Marissa Stark as Dew Drop Fairy

Autumn Tierney as Snow Queen

Colette Tilinski as Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen

Nashville’s Nutcracker will not only showcase the incredible cast of company dancers and members of NB2, Nashville Ballet’s official second company, but also more than 200 local community youth and School of Nashville Ballet students.  

DOWNLOAD ENTIRE YOUTH CAST HERE

“Each year, Nashville’s Nutcracker brings together artists, students, families and audiences to celebrate the joy of the holiday season through dance,” said Nick Mullikin, Nashville Ballet’s Artistic Director and CEO. “What makes this production so special is how it reflects the heart and spirit of Music City. From the vibrant storytelling to the extraordinary live music performed by The Nashville Symphony, this production showcases the power of collaboration between our city’s finest artists. Nashville’s Nutcracker isn’t just a performance, it’s a celebration of who we are as a community. This year, we’re thrilled to expand that celebration with new themed evenings that highlight the diversity, inclusion and creativity that define Nashville today.”

Audiences have come to love that Nashville’s Nutcracker weaves Music City’s rich history into the classic children’s story of Clara Stahlbaum, the brave Nutcracker Prince and the magical kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Inspired by the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, the production showcases the unique history and cultural innovation of Music City with scenes set in Nashville landmarks such as Shelby Bottoms, Centennial Park and the Belle Meade Mansion. The whimsical story follows Clara and her Uncle Drosselmeyer as they explore the Exposition, where they experience inventions from across the globe and are introduced to the Nutcracker for the first time, before embarking on a magical adventure. 

This cherished production is an experience designed for the entire family. Families with children are encouraged to arrive up to 40 minutes early to participate in pre-performance story times hosted by Nashville Ballet teaching artists, enjoy meet-and-greets with favorite Nutcracker characters, take photos in the commemorative photo booth and shop exclusive holiday merchandise featuring Nashville’s Nutcracker dolls and ornaments.

This must-see holiday tradition is set to the timeless score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed live by The Nashville Symphony under Music Director and Principal Conductor Ming Luke with Guest Conductor Lauren Wasynczuk. The production features exquisite scenery designed by Shigeru Yaji, costumes and additional scenic elements by Campbell Baird and lighting designs by Scott Leathers.

In addition to its public performances, Nashville Ballet will double its student matinees this season. In partnership with TPAC and The Nashville Symphony, the organization will welcome more than 3,500 students from across Middle Tennessee for two daytime performances designed exclusively for school field trips. Each performance is supported by a comprehensive Educator’s Guide with interactive activities aligned to Tennessee State Academic Standards.

Nashville Ballet will also continue its beloved Holiday Magic program, which brings the gift of live art to community members who may not otherwise have access to professional ballet. More than 2,000 individuals will receive free tickets this season, distributed through over 60 social service agencies across Middle Tennessee.

Tickets are still available for the entire family to experience the joy and wonder of this classic tale reimagined that captures the heart and spirit of Nashville. Be a holiday hero and get your tickets now as it’s expected to sell out. Single tickets start at just $45. For more information on Nashville’s Nutcracker or to purchase tickets, please visit NashvilleBallet.com. 

NASHVILLE BALLET UNVEILS 2026 BALLET BALL THEME: A SWAN LAKE-INSPIRED EVENING OF ELEGANCE AND IMPACT NEXT SPRING

Co-Chairs Neil Krugman, Lisa Manning and Julie Schneider to Lead 37th Annual Ballet Ball on March 7, 2026 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Photo by Daniel Meigs

Nashville Ballet is thrilled to announce details for the 37th Annual Ballet Ball, returning Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Inspired by the timeless beauty of Swan Lake, the 2026 gala will blend classical elegance with contemporary celebration in honor of the Ballet’s milestone 40th Season. Esteemed community leaders Neil Krugman, Lisa Manning and Julie Schneider will serve as co-chairs, alongside Honorary Chair Barbara Turner, for one of Nashville’s most anticipated and impactful evenings of the year.

Revealed during the recent Ballet Ball Kickoff Coffee event, the Ball's Swan Lake-inspired theme pays homage to one of ballet’s most iconic and beloved masterpieces as it returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall from February 27 to March 1, 2026. Renowned for its sweeping romance, haunting beauty and emotional depth, Swan Lake will influence every detail of the evening, from ethereal design elements to dramatic staging, evoking the elegance, mystery and grandeur of Tchaikovsky’s beloved masterpiece. Renowned event planner Bruce Pittman has been charged to help bring this vision to life, promising an unforgettable celebration that reflects the magic and artistry of the ballet itself.

Ballet Ball patrons will enjoy a gourmet dining experience by Kristen Winston Catering paired with handcrafted cocktails and curated beverages provided by Lipman Brothers, LLC.  

The gala will also include exclusive, one-night-only performances by Nashville Ballet company artists and surprise guest artists, to be revealed in the coming months. Then the celebration continues into the evening with the highly-anticipated Late Party, chaired by Catherine Bradbury, Kimberly Macdonald and Eli Gibbons and Sophie and Preston Howard.

The annual black-tie event is a cornerstone fundraiser for Nashville Ballet and continues to be a driving force behind the organization's transformative Community Engagement and Education Initiatives. During the 2024–25 season alone, these programs delivered over 55,000 arts experiences to Middle Tennesseans, including free tickets to Nashville’s Nutcracker, 18 Storytime performances at local libraries and dance education programs in 40 schools. More than 300 homeschool families also participated through customized offerings, while a new five-episode podcast series deepened digital engagement. With over 23,000 individuals reached through free performances last year, Nashville Ballet is ensuring the beauty and impact of dance remain accessible to all.

“Ballet Ball is more than a celebration of art, it’s an investment in the future of our community,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet. “Every dollar raised allows us to reach more students, more neighborhoods and more families through the power of dance. By supporting this event, our patrons are helping us foster creativity, confidence and connection through the arts, planting seeds that will grow for generations to come.”

For more information about the Ballet Ball and/or Late Party,please visit NashvilleBallet.com/ballet-ball or email events@nashvilleballet.com.

Tickets for Swan Lake performances at TPAC (Feb. 27 - March 1) are also on sale and available at NashvilleBallet.com, or by phone at 615-297-2966 ext. 710.  

Nashville Ballet KICKS OFF 40TH SEASON – THE RUBY SEASON – WITH A DAZZLING TRIPLE BILL FEATURING ELVIS, BALANCHINE AND KYLIÁN

If I Can Dream Kicks Off the Landmark Season with a Sparkling Celebration of Movement, Music and Legacy 

Featuring Soul-Stirring Music by The Nashville Symphony at TPAC - October 10-12

Photo by Lydia McRae Photography

Elvis has entered the building. Nashville Ballet is proud to launch its 40th Season – The Ruby Season – with If I Can Dream, an electrifying triple bill featuring Balanchine, Kylián and Presley with performances October 10–12, 2025, at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC).

Choreographed and directed by Travis Bradley, If I Can Dream, set to the timeless music of Elvis Presley, fuses the elegance and artistry of classical ballet with the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. First previewed at the 2024 Nashville Dance Festival, this expanded work showcases a rich tapestry of Elvis Presley’s catalog of music. The production includes Elvis’ classics such as “That’s All Right,” “Suspicious Minds,” “Kiss Me Quick,” “It Hurts Me,” “Men with Broken Hearts,” “Forget Me Never,” and the powerful anthem that gives the production its name, “If I Can Dream.”

Bradley, whose celebrated career includes work with Ballet Memphis, Houston Ballet and Richmond Ballet, spent countless hours curating and reimagining the King’s catalog. From stripped-down arrangements to emotional storytelling through movement, If I Can Dream showcases Presley’s timeless music that's both fresh and deeply human. Garritt McCabe will reprise his role as The Icon opposite Will Giannuzzi debuting in alternate casts, while Claudia Monja with James Lankford or Jorge Emilio Peña will perform the Pas de Deux.

“Elvis’ music is timeless and the messages in his songs are universal,” said Travis Bradley. “I wanted to showcase the vastness of Elvis’ musical range, from gospel and blues to pop ballads; he was a master storyteller. This piece is meant to celebrate his music while bringing joy and inspiration to the audience to dream of a better tomorrow.”

Additionally, the evening will begin with George Balanchine’s Rubies, the second movement from Balanchine’s legendary Jewels. Set to Stravinsky’s Capriccio for Piano and Orchestra, this sparkling masterpiece dazzles with sharp wit, angular lines and vibrant movement accompanied by the award-winning music of The Nashville Symphony with guest pianist Alessandra Volpi. A tribute to the vitality of dance, Rubies captures the genius of Balanchine at his most playful and provocative. The lead principal dancers include Michael Burfield, Jamie Kopit, Garritt McCabe, Claudia Monja, Lily Saito, Brett Sjoblom, Gwyneth Smith, Autumn Tierney and Colette Tilinski.

Then, returning to the Nashville stage by popular demand, Jiří Kylián’s Un Ballo, a poignant and deeply human work set to Maurice Ravel’s lush music. Known for its emotional nuance and contemporary elegance, this ballet contrasts neoclassical structure with modern intimacy. It’s a stirring meditation on love, memory and connection that showcases the expressive power and range of Nashville Ballet’s artists.

If I Can Dream is made possible in part by a generous sponsor, Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA). CASTING NOTE: Principal dancer Lily Saitomakes her return to the stage in this production after rupturing her Achilles last year and receiving rehab treatment at TOA.

Tickets for If I Can Dream and other single performances start at $50 and increase based on seating location and ticket preferences. Don’t miss this blockbuster lineup as Nashville Ballet offers curated packages where you can pick 2-4 performances and save up to 25% on adult tickets and 50% on children’s tickets. View single tickets and season ticket packages at NashvilleBallet.com, or by phone at 615-297-2966 ext. 710.  

NASHVILLE BALLET ANNOUNCES DATE AND CHAIRS FOR BELOVED ANNUAL EVENT ~ NUTCRACKER TEA

Sponsorships and Tickets are On Sale Now for Nashville Ballet’s Nutcracker Tea to be Held Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts

Secure Your Tickets Now for Nashville’s Favorite Holiday Tradition - Nashville’s Nutcracker - Returning to TPAC 

November 29 – December 28, 2025

Nutcracker Tea Co-Chairs (L-R): Kayla Clayborne Counts, Blair Steakley Lund, Ashley Horne Herring

Photo Credit: Anthony Romano

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – July 24, 2025 - Nashville Ballet has announced the date for their annual Nutcracker Tea to be held on Sunday, November 23 from 3 - 5 p.m. at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts. The enchanting, family-friendly event will be co-chaired by Kayla Clayborne Counts, Ashley Horne Herring and Blair Steakley Lund, and marks the official kick off to Nashville Ballet’s production of Paul Vasterling’s Nashville’s Nutcracker, the cherished holiday classic returning to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall from November 29 through December 28, 2025.   

The festive, Nashville’s Nutcracker-themed party will give attendees the opportunity to experience the Sugar Plum Fairy's kingdom, the Mouse King, Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, up close and personal. This grand soiree brings the joy of the season by offering a shortened, interactive version of Nashville’s Nutcracker for little ones. The event is geared towards preschool to elementary ages, but all ages are welcome to join in what is sure to be the perfect way to celebrate this beloved ballet. 

Attendees will enjoy treats, arts and crafts and other whimsical activities. Featuring appearances by beloved Nashville’s Nutcracker characters, festive adult beverages and a professional photo opportunity, this event is a perfect way to create memories with the entire family.  

The highly-anticipated favorite holiday tradition raises much needed funds to support the School of Nashville Ballet’s Scholarship Fund. The funds raised from this event allow Nashville Ballet to award over $250,000 annually in merit and need-based scholarships, providing high-quality dance training to students of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. 

Nashville’s Nutcracker Tea sponsorships and VIP tickets are on sale now and expected to sell out. Visit www.NashvilleBallet.com/Nutcracker-Tea for more information or email Morgan Pufahl at MPufahl@NashvilleBallet.com.

Nashville’s Nutcracker

Tickets are also on sale to experience Paul Vasterling’s Nashville’s Nutcracker at TPAC's Jackson Hall from November 29 through December 28, 2025.  Be a holiday hero by securing the best seats at the best prices for the entire family during this Christmas in July promotion with single tickets starting at just $45. Performances will include Nashville Ballet company dancers, Nashville Ballet’s Second Company NB2, a cast of youth students from School of Nashville Ballet and select community partners. 

Youth Cast Auditions

Nashville Ballet invites local children, ages 8-18, to audition for roles in this year’s production. Auditions will be held on Sunday, August 24 and Sunday, September 7 at The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet. Open to all skill levels, auditions are fun, welcoming, and require no prior dance experience. Details will be announced soon. For inquiries, contact youthcast@nashvilleballet.com or visit Nashvilleballet.com/youth-cast-information.

Nashville Ballet Company Dancers (L-R): Claudia Monja and Sarah Pierce

Photo Credit: Anthony Morano

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ABOUT THE EVENT CHAIRS:

Kayla Clayborne Counts

Professionally, Kayla is a member of Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) Public and Community Engagement team where she manages TVA’s Corporate Contributions program and the Community Care Fund, a matching grant program with TVA’s 153 local power companies.

Kayla began her involvement with Nashville Ballet as a board member of the Friends of Nashville Ballet where she served as an officer on the Executive Committee. 

She currently sits on the Horticultural Society of Middle Tennessee Executive Committee and Cheekwood Family Society Advisory Board and is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Nashville. 

Previously, Kayla served as co-chair of the Nashville Symphony Ball, Junior League Centennial Founding Day Fête, Fall for Cheekwood, Nashville Ballet Ball Auction, and Symphony Ball Late Party. Kayla and her husband, Donnie, have two young sons, Tristan and Sebastian.

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Ashley Horne Herring

After an exciting 16-year career in the magazine industry in New York City, Ashley Horne Herring returned to her hometown of Nashville, where she works as a freelance photo shoot producer. A lifelong lover of the arts, Ashley has a special passion for dance and loves watching her 7-year-old daughter explore her own creativity at School of Nashville Ballet.

In addition to her support for the arts, Ashley is deeply committed to giving back to her community. Through her work with the C&B Foundation, she champions local organizations such as the Nashville Food Project, Thistle Farms, and Equal Chance for Education. She is also a proud member of the Ballet’s Relevé Society and previously chaired its Last Call event.

When she’s not working behind the scenes or supporting causes close to her heart, Ashley and her husband, Hunter, enjoy exploring Nashville’s vibrant music and theater scene.

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Blair Steakley Lund

Blair Steakley Lund is a Nashville native and is the Director of Healthcare Sales for UPS. Blair has been with UPS for 20 years and knew from her days at the University of Tennessee that Supply Chain Management was going to be her long-term career. Blair is married to Jonathan Lund and they share two children, Blakely and J.R.   In her free time, Blair spends time traveling, working on her cancer foundation, Think Pink TN, and co-chairing her children’s preschool auxiliary board.