NASHVILLE BALLET NAMES KATIE VASILOPOULOS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Former Principal Dancer Now Oversees Strategic and Organizational Leadership in Her 18th Season
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
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.
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.
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.
Nashville’s Favorite Holiday Tradition Returns to TPAC November 29 – December 28, 2025
Youth Cast Auditions are Set for August 24 & September 7
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – July 1, 2025 – Nashville Ballet announces tickets are now on sale for Paul Vasterling’s Nashville’s Nutcracker — a cherished holiday tradition returning to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall from November 29 through December 28, 2025.
Unwrap holiday magic this Christmas and become a holiday hero by securing the best seats at the best prices for the entire family during this Christmas in July promotion. This award-winning production consistently sells out, so early ticket purchase is strongly encouraged. Single tickets start at just $45.
This holiday season, step into a world of wonder as Nashville Ballet presents the return of a beloved tradition featuring stunning choreography, exquisite sets and costumes and a sweeping score performed live by The Nashville Symphony. Choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling, Nashville’s Nutcracker is a dazzling reimagining of the beloved classic — infused with local history, imagination and timeless storytelling. This Emmy Award-winning production brings the story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to life in a uniquely Nashville way that has become the crown jewel of Middle Tennessee’s holiday season and a cherished experience.
“This production truly captures the magic and wonder that make the holidays so special,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet. “We’re thrilled to bring Nashville’s Nutcracker back to life on stage, showcasing not only our exceptional company artists but also the incredible young talent from the School of Nashville Ballet and our vibrant local community. It’s a celebration of artistry, joy, and holiday spirit that audiences won’t want to miss.”
Audiences of all ages will be transported into a dazzling world where twinkling snowflakes fall, the enchanting Kingdom of Sweets, and a daring battle with the Mouse King awaits. Named Best Dance Production of 2022 by Broadway World Nashville and the subject of a 2020 Emmy Award-winning film, this holiday tradition is a must-see for families and visitors alike. Whether you’re continuing a treasured tradition or starting a new one, Nashville’s Nutcracker offers a joy-filled experience that celebrates community, creativity, and the timeless magic of the season.
Nashville Ballet’s 2025-26 season schedule also includes these performances at TPAC:
If I Can Dream - October 10-12, 2025
Swan Lake - February 28 - March 1, 2026
Single tickets now on sale for Nashville’s Nutcracker or you can catch this blockbuster lineup with various season ticket packages designed for the entire family. Subscribe to one of the curated packages or enjoy maximum flexibility when you choreograph your own. Pick 2-3 performances and save up to 25% on adult tickets and 50% on children’s tickets. Order ticket packages at NashvilleBallet.com, or by phone to TPAC’s box office at 615-782-4040.
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.
Led by Artistic Director & CEO Nick Mullikin, the New Season Includes Beloved Classics Nashville’s Nutcracker, Swan Lake and Sherlock
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – May 5, 2025 -- Nashville Ballet has announced their exceptional lineup for their 2025-26 season under the artistic direction of Nick Mullikin. Nashville Ballet invites audiences to join them for their 40th Season – The Ruby Season – with dazzling productions that embody the passion, power and artistry that have defined the company for four decades. Season ticket packages are now on sale.
Nashville Ballet will present beloved classical stories including Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling’s Emmy Award-winning Nashville’s Nutcracker and Swan Lake all set to music performed by an award-winning orchestra – The Nashville Symphony.
This October, audiences will enjoy a unique masterpiece as classical brilliance, contemporary elegance and rock ‘n’ roll charisma collide with If I Can Dream. The performance begins with George Balanchine’s dazzling Rubies and Jiří Kylián’s hauntingly beautiful Un Ballo set to live music by The Nashville Symphony. A bold tribute to Elvis Presley titled If I Can Dream by Travis Bradley headlines the performance that celebrates rhythm, rebellion and the timeless power of movement.
The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the wonder and excitement of Nashville Ballet’s beloved classic, Nashville’s Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling. Then in February, be prepared to be swept away as Vasterling’s Swan Lake returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall stage for the first time since 2018.
Next May, you’ll step into the shadows and follow the clues as Nashville Ballet concludes their 2025–26 season with Penny Saunder's Sherlock – the electrifying centerpiece of their annual Attitude series. Additionally, two compelling works will be presented within the Attitude series’ cutting-edge contemporary ballets. The evening opens with Tony-nominated choreographer Donald Byrd's Wake the Neighbors, a charged and thought-provoking piece that challenges the senses. Then, Maria Konrad’s DEA, expanded from its original pas de deux, returns with renewed emotional depth and grace.
“Our company is known for its commitment to artistry and sharing our passion for dance with a musical experience that enriches every part of the senses,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO. “With so many incredible offerings for our 40th season, we carefully curated this collection of works with the community in mind. Our season ticket holders or package attendees play a vital role in funding our ability to showcase art that inspires, heightens emotions and provides a truly visceral experience that memories are made of. We look forward to seeing you all this upcoming season.”
Nashville Ballet 2025-26 Season Schedule:
If I Can Dream - October 10-12, 2025 (Polk Theater, TPAC)
Nashville’s Nutcracker - November 29 - December 28, 2025 (Jackson Hall, TPAC)
Swan Lake - February 28 - March 1, 2026 (Jackson Hall, TPAC)
Sherlock - May 1-3, 2026 (Polk Theater, TPAC)
Don’t miss this blockbuster lineup as Nashville Ballet offers various season ticket packages designed for date nights or the entire family. Subscribe to one of the curated packages or enjoy maximum flexibility when you choreograph your own. Pick 3-4 performances and save up to 25% on adult tickets and 50% on children’s tickets. View season ticket packages at NashvilleBallet.com, or by phone at 615-297-2966 ext. 710.
Nashville Ballet creates, performs, teaches, and promotes dance as an essential and inspiring element of the Nashville community. Season ticket holders' support helps to sustain Nashville Ballet’s artistic and educational excellence, accessible arts education to children and adults throughout the Nashville area and beyond, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts and cultural landscape.
To learn more about Nashville Ballet, please visit NashvilleBallet.com.
In this Digital Work, Artistic Director & CEO, Nick Mullikin Offers a Raw and Impactful Exploration of Mental Health
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – April 15, 2025 — Nashville Ballet's Artistic Director & CEO, Nick Mullikin, has choreographed a powerful new digital ballet, Abyss, which delves into the emotional mental health and the desire to escape one’s own mind. The work presents a thought-provoking experience that combines stunning choreography, evocative music and an intimate, cinematic approach to the storytelling through dance. The piece premiered on the Tennessean’s website yesterday and was inspired by Mullikin’s personal journey that he’s publicly sharing for the first time.
Abyss features artists Jaison McClendon and Anneliese Guerin, and begins with the main character falling into an undefined, surreal space, symbolizing the disorienting sense one feels when being overwhelmed by the world around them. The piece focuses on the mental and emotional struggle of trying to escape, reflecting the internal battle that many face when trapped in cycles of despair. Mullikin’s choreography explores the tension between hope and hopelessness, illustrating the feeling of always striving for something just beyond reach, while the overwhelming abyss of uncertainty threatens to consume.
“This piece was created with the idea of the thoughts and mindset that can often trap us as we try to move forward in life,” Nick Mullikin explains. “It speaks to the question of ‘Is there something more? Is this what life has to offer?’ The abyss is the mental and emotional space where that question feels impossible to answer, and it can become all-consuming.”
The ballet is set to the timeless Concerto in D minor- II. Adagio by Johann Sebastian Bach, performed by renowned pianist Alessandra Volpi, whose delicate yet powerful performance deepens the emotional layers of the work. Mullikin’s choice of Bach underscores the dichotomy of beauty and struggle, creating an emotional resonance that draws viewers deeply into the narrative.
Filmed in the heart of Nashville, the production takes full advantage of the stunning capabilities of the Kingswood Production Studio on 12th Avenue South with video director Chad Driver at the helm. The setting, along with the ballet’s digital format, allowed Mullikin to push the boundaries of traditional ballet performance, creating a raw, 360-degree immersive experience on film for the audience.
The digital work is now available on Nashville Ballet’s YouTube Channel, aiming to capture a global audience to experience the universal exploration of struggle, survival and an ongoing search for meaning.
Abyss serves as a prelude to Nashville Ballet’s upcoming production of their annual Attitude series on May 2 - 4, returning to the Polk Theater at TPAC to include the visionary works of renowned choreographers Jennifer Archibald and Penny Saunders, alongside the highly-anticipated world premiere of Erase the Night by Artistic Director and CEO Nick Mullikin.
Mullikin’s Erase the Night dives deep into the poignant journey and complexities of addiction, isolation and the human condition. The choreography offers a contemporary take on ballet, blending the art form’s technical mastery with a deep emotional connection that resonates with anyone who has faced inner turmoil or struggled with finding purpose.
Tickets for Attitude start at just $47 and are on sale now at Nashvilleballet.com/attitude or by calling 615-297-2966 ext. 710.
In addition, Nashville Ballet will be hosting its final Community Conversation event in partnership with state and local addiction and mental health resource organizations to offer educational programming, provide resources and share a message of hope on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 6-7:30 p.m. at The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee at 3421 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37215.
Abyss Production Credits:
Cinematographer and Editor: Chad Driver
Cinematographer: Randy Hale
Lighting Designer: Kelly Landry
Costume Director Mycah Kennedy
Director of Production: Melinda Dobson
Production Stage Manager: Deborah Climo
Properties Master: Eric Gamez
Master Electrician: Kim Pukay
Cutter/Draper and Shop Assistant: Aryana Gaines
Wardrobe Supervisor: Alison Taylor
Shoe Manager: Christana Alford
Patternmaker / Stitcher: Anna Yepes
Stitcher: Sarah Newman and Nawal Shirnaky
Hair/Make-up and Dresser: Lily Murray
ABOUT NASHVILLE BALLET:
Nashville Ballet, the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee, presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Nick Mullikin, and other guest artists.
Nashville Ballet creates, performs, teaches, and promotes dance as an essential and inspiring element of the Nashville community. Season ticket holders' support helps to sustain Nashville Ballet’s artistic and educational excellence, accessible arts education to children and adults throughout the Nashville area and beyond, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts and cultural landscape.
Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2, provide more than 55,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through virtual and in-person season performances and Community Engagement programming. Nashville Ballet curriculum-based Community Engagement and Education Programs bring dance education to over 16,000 students in over 25 schools across 21 council districts in Middle Tennessee. School of Nashville Ballet provides exceptional dance training to students ages two and up.
Nashville Ballet receives public funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional, and national institutional funders, community partners, and hundreds of generous individuals provide ongoing support for Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.
To learn more about Nashville Ballet, please visit NashvilleBallet.com.
Nashville Ballet announces Mickey Guyton and The War And Treaty will headline the 36th Annual Ballet Ball set for March 1, 2025, at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
Nashville Ballet has announced the principal cast who will lead Paul Vasterling’s Nashville’s Nutcracker. This beloved holiday classic kicks off this weekend at Tennessee Performing Arts Center and runs through December 26.
School of Nashville Ballet has announced dates national audition tour dates for its 2025 Summer Intensives, including Nashville Ballet’s Company Immersion Intensive, Contemporary Intensive, and more. The 2025 audition tour will kick off on January 3, 2025, in Carmel, IN, continuing to 17 more cities throughout the country before concluding on January 26 in Santa Monica, CA. The auditions will finish with NSIA Auditions on February 1 at Nashville Ballet. School of Nashville Ballet is open to 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.