NASHVILLE BALLET REVEALS CAST FOR THE HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED PRODUCTION OF ROMEO AND JULIET

Limited Tickets Remain for the Shakespearean Classic at TPAC on April 20 - 21

APRIL 15, 2024 – NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Ballet has proudly announced the four incredible dancers who will portray the lead characters for the highly-anticipated production of Paul Vasterling’s Romeo & Juliet.   James Lankford and Nicolas Scheuer will play the role of Romeo, while Jamie Kopit and Lily Saito will play the role of Juliet as the beloved production returns to Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) Jackson Hall this weekend - April 20 (2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.) and April 21 (2 p.m.) under the artistic direction of Nick Mullikin. 

The production of Romeo and Juliet underlines Nashville Ballet's mission to embark on a new path that respects the rich history of the Ballet, while embracing a vibrant and innovative future. 

“I’m truly excited about the talent level of our artists,” says Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO.  “What most people may not realize is that Nashville Ballet is not a traveling company.  We are fortunate to have 32 incredibly talented professional dancers that live and work in our community.  So, I’m thrilled that the audience is going to see an exquisite presentation by a group of artists that make Nashville their home.”

The talented cast will portray the bitter feud between the Montague and Capulet families that disrupts the city of Verona and ends in tragedy.  Audiences are sure to enjoy the dramatically authentic fight scenes as the Nashville Ballet enlisted London-based fight director Tim Klotz to help develop the choreography. 

Tickets are selling quickly for this whirlwind of forbidden passion and swoon-worthy romance happening April 20 & 21. Tickets are on sale now and start at $48 at NashvilleBallet.com, TPAC box office or by phone at 615-297-2966 x 710.  

MORE ABOUT PAUL VASTERLING’S ROMEO & JULIET:  

Created in 2004, and last presented by Nashville Ballet in 2019, this production of Romeo and Juliet draws inspiration from a variety of sources. Though the story takes place in Shakespeare’s time, and many elements of the costumes, sets, and choreography remain authentic to that period, this production features modern influences from works like West Side Story and Franco Zeffirelli’s iconic 1968 film adaptation for a production that pays perfect homage to the Bard’s beautifully tragic love story.

Integral to the authenticity of the work, Nashville Ballet enlisted London-based fight director Tim Klotz to help develop the choreography in the ballet’s dramatically authentic fight scenes.  Klotz’s extensive experience in stage combat instruction offers Company dancers guidance on making the ballet’s sword fighting appear lifelike and action-packed.  What’s more, Klotz’s industry knowledge helped to create fight choreography that draws directly from the cape fighting styles traditional to the Shakespearean era, a quality unique to Nashville Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet adaptation.

In addition, their powerful performances will be enhanced by the emotional depth of Sergei Prokofiev's score, performed live by The Nashville Symphony, and the visual splendor of lavish costumes and sets.  This tapestry of elements will undoubtedly provide a theatrical experience that honors the legacy of Shakespeare's work while showcasing the dynamic artistic vision propelling the Nashville Ballet forward.

A complete schedule of performances dates & times and more information about Nashville Ballet can be found at https://www.nashvilleballet.com/romeo-and-juliet-2024.

NASHVILLE BALLET TO PRESENT THE HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED ROMEO AND JULIET

The Grand-Scale Production of Shakespearean Tale

Returns to TPAC on April 20 - 21

media assets

Photos, B-Roll Video | Cutline in the “Comments” | Photo Credit:  Karyn Photography

---

MARCH 12, 2024 – NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Ballet has announced the highly-anticipated production of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet will return to Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) Jackson Hall on April 20 - 21, 2024 under the artistic direction of Nick Mullikin.

Mullikin brings a fresh energy to the classic tale that remains rooted in the beloved choreography of Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling. This production exquisitely portrays the bitter feud between the Montague and Capulet families that disrupts the city of Verona and ends in tragedy. Mullikin’s guidance emphasizes the continuity and growth of the company's artistic journey.

"This season, we've embarked on a path that respects our history and embraces the future,” says Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO.  “Romeo and Juliet is a pinnacle of our artistic expression, a building upon the foundation laid before us, and a celebration of the direction we are heading. As we present this enduring love story, we also celebrate the evolution of Nashville Ballet, inviting audiences to experience the depth of our tradition and the vibrancy of our future."

The production of Romeo and Juliet underlines Nashville Ballet's commitment to excellence and innovation. In addition, the powerful performance is enhanced by the emotional depth of Sergei Prokofiev's score, performed live by the Nashville Symphony, and the visual splendor of lavish costumes and sets. This blend of elements weaves together a theatrical experience that honors the legacy of Shakespeare's work while showcasing the dynamic artistic vision propelling the company forward.

Created in 2004, and last presented by Nashville Ballet in 2019, this production of Romeo and Juliet draws inspiration from a variety of sources. Though the story takes place in Shakespeare’s time, and many elements of the costumes, sets, and choreography remain authentic to that period, this production features modern influences from works like West Side Story and Franco Zeffirelli’s iconic 1968 film adaptation for a production that pays perfect homage to the Bard’s beautifully tragic love story.

Integral to the authenticity of the work, Nashville Ballet enlisted London-based fight director Tim Klotz to help develop the choreography in the ballet’s dramatically authentic fight scenes. Klotz’s extensive experience in stage combat instruction offers Company dancers guidance on making the ballet’s sword fighting appear lifelike and action-packed. What’s more, Klotz’s industry knowledge helped to create fight choreography that draws directly from the cape fighting styles traditional to the Shakespearean era, a quality unique to Nashville Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet adaptation.

This April, Nashville audiences can escape to Verona in this whirlwind of forbidden passion and swoon-worthy romance during this limited production. Tickets are on sale now and start at $48 at  NashvilleBallet.com, TPAC box office or by phone at 615-297-2966 x 710.  

Patrons can enhance their ballet-going experience by taking part in Nashville Ballet’s free pre-performance Talk Back events and the Inside the Ballet Podcast where participants gain insider access to industry experts and the artists responsible for bringing Romeo and Juliet to the stage in April. Podcasts can be found by selecting one of the icons on this page: https://www.nashvilleballet.com/adult-programs.

A complete schedule of performances and more information about Nashville Ballet can be found at https://www.nashvilleballet.com/romeo-and-juliet-2024.

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, Resident Choreographer Mollie Sansone, and guest artists. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2, provides 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 12,000 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 Metro Arts, 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 The Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs. 

To learn more about Nashville Ballet, please visit NashvilleBallet.com.  

#  #  #

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Kim Dettwiller Burton, Team Strategies | 615-330-5656 or Kim@TeamStrategies.net 

Tresa Halbrooks, LEGACY PR |  615-669-6058 or Tresa@Legacy-PR.com  

Nashville’s Nutcracker returns to TPAC December 8-24

Music City’s favorite holiday tradition presented by Nashville Ballet

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Nashville Ballet, the largest ballet company in Tennessee, has announced the return of its beloved holiday production, Nashville's Nutcracker, to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Andrew Jackson Hall from December 8 to 24. Hailed as “the best Dance Production of 2022” by Broadway World Nashville, this dazzling performance features live music by the Nashville Symphony and original choreography by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling. This unique-to-Nashville production is guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages. 

“Nashville’s Nutcracker is an opportunity for our artists, students, and community to come together to celebrate the magic of the holidays and the beauty of dance.” shared Artistic Director and CEO Nick Mullikin. “As Nashville Ballet and the city of Nashville grow and evolve, Nashville’s Nutcracker gives us a chance to remember everything that makes our city special. We are so thrilled to be a part of the holiday traditions of so many Middle Tennesseans each year.”

Now in its 16th year, 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 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.

Nashville's Nutcracker will showcase a talented cast of performers including Nashville Ballet’s thirty-two professional Company Dancers as well as members of NB2, Nashville Ballet's official second company. Alongside the professional artists, students ages 8-18 from School of Nashville Ballet and Rejoice School of Ballet will represent the youth cast. This holiday classic is set to the beloved musical score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky performed live by the Nashville Symphony under Music Director and Principal Conductor Ming Luke, and features scenery designed by Shigeru Yaji, costumes and sets by renowned costume designer Campbell Baird, and lighting designs created by Scott Leathers. 

A complete holiday experience, audience members will be able to enjoy pre-performance activities, including a commemorative photo booth, meet and greets with characters from the production, and story times hosted by Nashville Ballet teaching artists.

Nashville’s Nutcracker is sponsored in part by Benefits, Inc., Tanger Nashville, and the Tennessee Titans. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at nashvilleballet.com, via email at tickets@nashvilleballet.com, or by calling the Nashville Ballet Box Office at 615-297-2966 x710. For more information, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet Board of Directors Welcomes Four New Members

Incoming Board Members for the 2023-24 Season, including both new and returning faces.

Nashville, Tennessee - (October 10, 2023), Nashville Ballet is pleased to announce the appointment of Adolpho Birch III as the newest Nashville Ballet Board Member and the return of Laurie Eskind, James “Jim” Munro, and Heather Thorne as they rejoin the Nashville Ballet Board of Directors for the 2023- 2024 term effective immediately.

“This is an exciting moment for us as we welcome new and returning Board members to Nashville Ballet,” said Susan Short Jones, Nashville Ballet Board President. “Our Board members are dedicated supporters and long-time advocates of Nashville Ballet. We are honored to have such passionate and dedicated individuals on our team, who share our vision for the future.”

“Each of our returning Board members has played an integral role in championing Nashville Ballet, propelling us to where we are today,” states Nick Mullikin, Nashville Ballet Artistic Director and CEO. “Their contributions to the evolution of our organization have helped to enrich art and culture here in Nashville and throughout Middle Tennessee. We are thrilled to welcome Adolpho Birch as a new Board Member. His love for the arts and community engagement makes him a valuable addition to our Board of Directors. In my first season as Artistic Director, I am honored to work with these community leaders as we continue to fulfill our mission.”

About the newest appointments to the Nashville Ballet Board of Directors:

Adolpho Birch III currently holds the position of Chief External and League Affairs Officer for the Tennessee Titans and is in his fourth year of leadership. He is responsible for the legal and league affairs, government relations, DEI initiatives, community impact, and the Titans Foundation. Leveraging his 23- year tenure as a senior-level NFL advisor, he has redefined the Titans Foundation’s vision and expanded the team’s Community Impact footprint. Additionally, Mr. Birch has worked closely with city and state officials to aid in developing significant civic projects, such as Nashville’s new stadium and the city’s East Bank, while leading stakeholder engagement efforts across Tennessee.

Mr. Birch serves on several professional and philanthropic governing boards, including the Vanderbilt University Board of Trust, Sports Lawyers Association, Partnership Tennessee, and the Business of Sports School in New York. In 2021, he was elected to the Board of Directors for Ingram Industries and named director and committee chair for the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority.

In 2021 and 2022, Mr. Birch was also named Best of the Bar honoree by the Nashville Business Journal. He was appointed to the Tennessee Access to Justice Commission in 2022. Mr. Birch is a Nashville native and graduate of Father Ryan High School. He holds degrees from Harvard University and Vanderbilt University School of Law.

Laurie Eskind’s philanthropic leadership in Nashville spans over three decades, emphasizing supporting the arts and social services. Since 1998, she has immersed herself in the affairs of Nashville Ballet and has a long history of support. Mrs. Eskind served as President of the Board from 2007-2009 and has actively supported Nashville Ballet for over 20 years. Throughout her extensive leadership tenure, Mrs. Eskind chaired the 2005 Ballet Ball and served on various committees, including the Nominating Committee. She also co-chaired the ELEVATE Campaign, which raised $5.2 million to renovate and expand The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet into the state-of-the-art facility that it is today.

James “Jim” Munro is an avid supporter of the arts in Nashville, and he has played a vital role in supporting the mission of Nashville Ballet as an exceptional leader for over a decade. Mr. Munro originally joined the Board of Directors in 2013. He served on various committees, including Finance, Strategic Planning, and Nashville Ballet’s Foundation Board, and chaired the Facilities Committee. Mr. Munro currently serves as Nashville Ballet Board of Directors President-Elect.

Heather Thorne has been a pivotal figure in Nashville Ballet’s leadership for over 24 years and has played an integral role in developing relationships that support the company’s mission. During her tenure with the organization, Mrs. Thorne served as President of Friends of Nashville Ballet from 2002-2005, Nashville Ballet Board President from 2011-2014, and co-chaired the ELEVATE Campaign and Strategic Planning Committees. Mrs. Thorne is currently a performance photographer for Nashville Ballet, where she has contributed her talents since 2002. Her unwavering commitment to the company is instrumental to the success of Nashville Ballet.

Nashville Ballet To Host Inaugural Dance Festival at Belmont University This July

NASHVILLE, TENN. – (June 26, 2023)- Nashville Ballet is excited to start its 2023-24 Season with the inaugural Nashville Dance Festival, featuring exceptional talent from across the country. This celebration will showcase classical and contemporary pieces performed by renowned guest artists from Dance Theatre of Harlem, Collage Dance Collective, Nashville Ballet company dancers, NB2, Nashville Ballet’s official second company, and Nashville Ballet’s Summer Intensive students. The festival will commence on Friday, July 21, at Belmont University’s state-of-the-art Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at 7 p.m. Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Nick Mullikin believes this festival is a step in the right direction toward establishing Nashville as a destination for dance.

“The Nashville Dance Festival is a celebration of creativity in Nashville and the dance community,” said Nashville Ballet Artistic Director and CEO Nick Mullikin. “Festival attendees have an opportunity to witness the festival’s inception and growth into an essential event. It was important to demonstrate the national reach of our collaborators, and to show the city of Nashville new work by some of today’s leading artists. Our objective is to promote more interaction and provide a wider perspective of Nashville Ballet to the community. The return of Alexandra Hutchinson, former NB2 dancer and current Dance Theatre of Harlem company artist, highlights how the NB2 program is providing opportunities for growth. We are fusing the classical foundation of ballet with new contemporary concepts in this production that is sure to captivate audiences.”

The inaugural celebration will kick off the 2023-24 season with unforgettable performances from a grand slate of talented artists. Audiences are invited to witness the incredible skills of the nationally acclaimed Dance Theatre of Harlem and Collage Dance Collective. Led by Artistic Director Robert Garland, Dance Theatre of Harlem, based in New York City, is known for promoting excellence, innovation, and creativity through inclusivity. This prestigious institution boasts a history of star ballet prodigies such as co-founder Arthur Miller. Memphis-based Collage Dance Collective, known for its diversity, advocacy, and evocative performances, is led by Artistic Director Kevin Thomas.

Festival visitors will experience a preview of Nashville Ballet’s upcoming 2023-24 Season through the performances on stage, a pre-performance conversation with Artistic Director Nick Mullikin, and a stunning display of costumes and accessories in the lobby. Nashville Ballet Company Dancers Jamie Kopit and Nicolas Scheuer will showcase the Romeo and Juliet Balcony Pas De Deux choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling, set to return in full to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in April 2024. Audiences can also enjoy extraordinary performances by members of NB2, and pre-professional dancers from the prestigious School of Nashville Ballet's Summer Intensive Program, all masterfully choreographed by Gabrielle Lamb, Norbert De La Cruz III, Yury Yanowsky, Penny Saunders, and Nashville Ballet Rehearsal Director Travis Bradley.

The Nashville Dance Festival is sponsored in part by Polsinelli Law Firm and the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University. Tickets for the inaugural event are on sale now and can be purchased here. To reserve seats or to learn more, visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet to Celebrate Retirement of Long-Time Artistic Director with New in Nashville

NASHVILLE, TENN. (March 23, 2023) Nashville Ballet will be concluding their 2022-23 Season April 21–23 at TPAC with New in Nashville. A celebration of long-time Artistic Director Paul Vasterling, who has been a part of the company for more than three decades, this unique sampling of music and movement will highlight the growth of the company under Vasterling’s leadership.

“Nashville Ballet is rapidly becoming one of the top artistic institutions in the country, and we owe a tremendous amount of that success to Paul,” shared CEO and incoming Artistic Director Nick Mullikin. “Over the last 34 years, he has built an organization that pushes boundaries, exceeds expectations, and inspires everyone to think bigger and do more. Because of him and his commitment to Nashville Ballet, we are going to be able to take this company to the next level. He has laid the foundation, and now we get to build upon it.”

Throughout his 30-plus years with Nashville Ballet, Vasterling has propelled the organization’s growth both physically and fiscally. Under his leadership, the company has grown from a troupe of 12 dancers to 32 full-time, professional artists from all over the world, toured to prestigious institutions both nationally and internationally, made regional and national broadcast television debuts, including on PBS’ Great Performances series, and has collaborated with artists such as Maren Morris, Rhiannon Giddens, Ben Folds, Twyla Tharp, Jennifer Archibald, and many more. Through this vast expansion of Nashville Ballet’s repertoire and national reputation, Vasterling has created a company that is both technically versatile, inherently collaborative, and rapidly becoming one of the top dance institutions in the country.

Aiming to celebrate these accomplishments, New in Nashville will highlight the company's growth under Vasterling’s leadership with a variety of classical and contemporary works that showcase the multiplicity of their artists. The program will include two never-before-seen-in-Nashville works, including creative visionary Cathy Marston’s Snowblind, based on Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome, and a world premiere by the Tony-nominated choreographer of The Color Purple, Donald Byrd. In addition, audiences will get to experience Matthew Neenan’s Hilos, and one of Vasterling’s most beloved ballets, Appalachian Spring, set to Aaron Copland’s iconic score performed live by the Nashville Symphony.

Following Vasterling’s official retirement, current CEO and Associate Artistic Director Nick Mullikin will step into the role of Artistic Director for the 2023-24 season. In honor of his achievements over the years, Nashville Ballet’s Board of Directors has voted to name Vasterling Artistic Director Emeritus upon his retirement.

New in Nashville: A Tribute to Artistic Director Paul Vasterling will take place for one weekend only at TPAC’s Jackson Hall. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet Announces 2023-24 Season with New Artistic Director

NASHVILLE, TENN. (FEBRUARY 15, 2023) Ahead of the company’s final performance of the 2022-23 season, Nashville Ballet’s incoming Artistic Director, Nick Mullikin, has announced a blockbuster 2023-24 season. A unique blend of boundary-breaking contemporary productions and beloved classical favorites, the 2023-24 season will feature 2018 Tony Award winner Justin Peck’s Year of the Rabbit, world premieres by Mullikin, Jermaine Spivey, Mollie Sansone, and Yusha-Marie Sorzano, the return of their sold-out Live in Studio A program, and Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling’s fan favorite love story, Romeo and Juliet.

“This season highlights where we came from, where we are, and where we are going,” shared incoming Artistic Director Nick Mullikin. “The foundation of this work has been built by those that came before me, and we are going to continue to move forward with the ideas of work that make us one of the most unique ballet companies in the country. Audiences will have the chance to see things that they can easily recognize but also have the chance to see what the evolution of ballet looks like. We are maintaining who we are by creating 8 world premieres, and fostering creativity by giving our own artists a place to create.”

A Tony Award winner and acclaimed choreographer of Steven Spielberg’s 2021 West Side Story, Justin Peck will be making his Nashville Ballet debut with his Year of the Rabbit. His second work as Resident Choreographer of New York City Ballet, Year of the Rabbit is a collaboration with American singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens and features a song cycle based on the popular Chinese zodiac. Hailed “thrilling,” “poetic,” and “brilliant” by The New York Times, Year of the Rabbit blends the athleticism of classical ballet with boundary-breaking movement for a performance that is both visually stunning and physiologically intriguing. Peck’s piece will be joined by Artistic Director Emeritus’ Paul Vasterling’s Firebird, set to Stravinsky’s iconic, full-length score, and Jirí Kylián’s Un Ballo.

In addition to contemporary masterpieces, Nashville Ballet will be presenting beloved classical stories, including Vasterling’s Emmy Award-winning Nashville’s Nutcracker and Romeo and Juliet. A long-time, audience favorite, Music City Review declared, “emotive technique to a score dense with meaning, wrapped in beautifully crafted lighting plan and set design leaves the Nashville Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet a voice to speak for itself.” Other highlights include the return of their twice sold-out Live in Studio A program, which will include Mullikin’s first world premiere as Artistic Director, and their annual Attitude production in February, featuring world premieres by multi-award winner Jermaine Spivey, Resident Choreographer Mollie Sansone, and former Alvin Ailey dancer Yusha-Marie Sorzano.

Season tickets for the 2023-24 season will go on sale in March. To learn more about Nashville Ballet and upcoming performances, visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet’s Full 2023-24 Season:

Firebird

With Justin Peck and Jirí Kylián

September 22–24, 2023

TPAC’s Polk Theater

Nashville’s Nutcracker

December 8–24, 2023

TPAC’s Jackson Hall

Attitude

Featuring new works by Mollie Sansone, Yusha-Marie Sorzano, and Jermaine Spivey

February 9–11, 2024

TPAC’s Polk Theater

Romeo and Juliet

April 19–21, 2024

TPAC’s Jackson Hall

Live in Studio A

Featuring Nick Mullikin’s first world premiere as Artistic Director

May 17–23, 2024

The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet, Studio A

YAGP International Outstanding Choreographer of the year Maria Konrad to join Nashville Ballet as Director of NB2

NASHVILLE, TENN. (January 26, 2023) Nashville Ballet is thrilled to announce that nationally recognized choreographer Maria Konrad has been named their new Director of Nashville Ballet 2 (NB2), Nashville Ballet’s official second company. Recently named International Outstanding Choreographer in 2022 by Youth America Grand Prix, the world’s largest dance network, Konrad’s work has been showcased and recognized both nationally and internationally.

“We are elated for Maria to be joining our Nashville Ballet family,” shared incoming Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Nick Mullikin. “Our NB2 artists are the future of this company, and we pride ourselves in investing in their talent. For them to have the opportunity to work day in and out with a choreographer of this caliber is unprecedented, and we can’t wait to see how much this program continues to grow under Maria’s guidance.”

A graduate from A.W. Dreyfoos High School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, Konrad earned her BFA in Performing Arts at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As a teacher in Philadelphia, she created the early-dance-education curriculum for the school of the Koresh Dance Company, which has been featured in Dance Magazine. A nationally acclaimed choreographer, her work has been presented around the country at Pennsylvania Ballet, Next Generation Ballet, the 2022 Nervi Festival in Italy, the Mariinsky, the Spoleto Festival in South Carolina, The School of Colorado Ballet, The Harid Conservatory, Florida Atlantic University, and more. This season, she will create for Oklahoma City Ballet 2, NB2, and Kansas City Ballet’s main company. She has collaborated with artistic organizations such as Palm Beach Symphony and Palm Beach Pops, and her work has been picked up by several choreographic workshops. She has been recognized by organizations such as Young Arts and YAGP for Outstanding Choreography (2015, 2017) and International Outstanding Choreographer (2022) and has been a guest teacher for institutions such as The Colorado Ballet School, The Joffrey School, University of the Arts, Florida’s Young Dancers Workshop, The Art of Classical Ballet, Next Generation Ballet, St. Paul’s School, Florida Dance Festival, and YAGP.

Konrad will be joining Nashville Ballet full-time beginning in August. As the Director of NB2, she will work alongside incoming Artistic Director Nick Mullikin to expand NB2’s repertoire and programming for the 2023-23 season. A champion of the diversity of the art form, Konrad aspires to help NB2 artists develop their skills outside of just ballet by exploring contemporary, jazz, and modern movement. In addition, she will spearhead bringing in new choreographers, classes, and workshops for NB2 dancers.  

“As an artist, I have always been intrigued by the curriculum of contemporary dance and how we can use it to support classical technique,” shared Konrad. “When we unite these styles of movement, we push the boundaries of the art form and create stronger, more versatile artists and programming. Nashville Ballet has created a space that fosters this sort of creativity and forward-thinking, and I’m so excited to continue bringing that vision to life through the second company.”

To learn more about Nashville Ballet and NB2, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet to Highlight Stories of Music City’s Past in Anthology this February

NASHVILLE, TENN. (January 5, 2023) Nashville Ballet will continue its 2022-23 season and kick off the new year with the world premiere of Anthology. Conceptualized by Emmy Award-winning Artistic Director Paul Vasterling, Anthology will highlight unexplored stories of Music City’s past. Inspired by his passion for community, music, and movement, Anthology will be Vasterling’s final world premiere as Artistic Director of the company.

“In my 34 years with Nashville Ballet, I’ve always been mesmerized by the city around us,” shared Vasterling. “It is full of artists, creators, musicians, and visionaries; new ideas, collaborations, and voices. But it’s important to remember that there are people that came before us that made all of this, and so much more, possible. My hope with Anthology is that it would give names, faces, and recognition to those whose influence, accomplishments, and sacrifices, are so often forgotten. Everyone’s story deserves to be told.”

A poignant exploration of Nashville’s rich cultural tapestry, Anthology will explore the stories of both well-known locals and everyday people of the past, including formerly enslaved philanthropist Lucinda Bedford, the first woman to serve on the Nashville Police Force, dance visionary Albertine Maxwell, the first peoples of Middle Tennessee, and more.

Known for his cross-disciplinary collaborations, Vasterling has enlisted a variety of choreographers, musicians, and composers to contribute to the project, including multi-award winner Sidra Bell, newly appointed Resident Choreographer Mollie Sansone, longtime Nashville Ballet Teaching Artist Shabaz Ujima, Windship Boyd, Company Dancer Aeron Buchanan, MORGXN, Jordan Lehning, and local composer Larissa Maestro. Similar in kaleidoscopic style to his nationally-acclaimed ballet, Lucy Negro Redux, which recently premiered on PBS’ Great Performances series as Black Lucy and the Bard, Anthology will highlight a variety of art forms on stage in addition to dance, including original songs, musical scores, and live projection.

Anthology is sponsored in part by Vanderbilt University, DANCE/USA, and the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation and will make its world premiere at TPAC’s Polk Theater February 10–12, 2023. To learn more about Nashville Ballet, upcoming performances, or to purchase tickets, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville’s Nutcracker Returns to TPAC this Holiday Season with Brand-New Snow Scene

NASHVILLE, TENN. (November 10, 2022) Fresh off its Emmy Award win for the televised adaptation, Nashville’s Nutcracker will return to TPAC December 9–24, 2022. Deemed Music City’s favorite holiday tradition, this year’s production will feature the beloved, unique-to-Nashville story, plus live music by the Nashville Symphony and a brand-new Snow Scene.

“When I created this ballet almost fifteen years ago, I wanted to make it something unique to our community- something we could be proud of,” shared Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. “Over the years, it’s become so much more than that. It’s a tradition our dancers look forward to, an experience we share with family and friends, and most of all, an opportunity for us all to come together to celebrate the magic of the holidays and the beauty of dance.”

Inspired by the 1897 Centennial Exposition, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, Nashville’s Nutcracker showcases the unique history and cultural innovation of Music City. The performance begins with Clara and her Uncle Drosselmeyer at the Exposition, where they experience inventions from across the globe and see the beloved Nutcracker for the first time. Along with the iconic land of sweets and sugar plum fairies, several Nashville treasures are featured throughout the performance, including Centennial Park and the Belle Meade Mansion.

Known for its eye-catching costumes and elaborate sets, this year’s attendees will get to experience the debut of a brand-new Snow Scene. Inspired by the company’s Emmy Award-winning film adaptation of the beloved production, the new Snow Scene is designed to look as if you are staring into a piece of dark mica stone—with reflections and sparkles inside that

make the dreamy costumes pop more to the audience. The new scene was created specifically for this production by renowned designer Campbell Baird.

Nashville’s Nutcracker will feature Nashville Ballet company dancers, the artists of NB2, a youth cast of students from School of Nashville Ballet, Rejoice School of Ballet, and the Hispanic Family Foundation, and live music by the Nashville Symphony. A complete holiday experience, guests will also be able to enjoy several pre-performance activities, including a commemorative photo booth, meet and greets with characters from the production, and story times hosted by Nashville Ballet teaching artists.

Nashville’s Nutcracker is sponsored in part by the Tennessee Titans. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here. For more information, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Paul Vasterling’s Final Season as Artistic Director to Include World Premiere of Anthology

NASHVILLE, TENN. (October 24, 2022) As part of his final season as Artistic Director of Nashville Ballet, Paul Vasterling will debut his newest work, Anthology, on February 10–12 at TPAC’s Polk Theater. A poignant exploration of Nashville’s rich cultural tapestry, Anthology will blend music and movement to tell stories of Music City’s past.

Inspired by and set in the historic Nashville City Cemetery, Anthology is an homage to the Nashvillians, known and unknown, who have shaped the city we know today. Opened on January 1, 1822, The Nashville City Cemetery is the oldest continuously operated public cemetery in Nashville. By 1850, it was the final resting place for more than 11,000 people of every race, religion, and economic status. The ballet follows a young person as they explore the 200-year-old grounds and encounter the spirits of those buried there.

“I’ve always had a deep passion for community, and ours is so rich with people and stories that often get overlooked,” shared Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. “All of them are pertinent pieces to the life we live today, yet most of us are completely unaware. We often have the most to learn from those of which we know the least, and that’s exactly what Anthology explores.”

The ballet will feature stories of the first peoples of Middle Tennessee, formerly enslaved philanthropist Lucinda Bedford, the first women on the Nashville Police Force, and Albertine Maxwell, widely regarded as Nashville’s founder of ballet.

Known for his cross-disciplinary collaborations, Vasterling has enlisted a variety of choreographers, musicians, and composers to contribute to the project, including Nashville local and longtime teaching artist Shabaz Ujima, newly appointed Resident Choreographer Mollie Sansone, Windship Boyd, multi-award winner Sidra Bell, MORGXN, Jordan Lehning, Larissa Maestro, and more. Similar in kaleidoscopic style to his nationally-acclaimed ballet Lucy Negro Redux which recently premiered on PBS’ Great Performances series as Black Lucy and the Bard, Anthology will highlight a variety of art forms on stage in addition to dance, including original songs, musical scores, and live projection.   

Anthology is sponsored in part by Vanderbilt University and will make its world premiere at TPAC’s Polk Theater February 10–12, 2023. To learn more about Nashville Ballet, upcoming performances, or to purchase tickets, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet to Host Immersive Live in Studio A Performance this November

NASHVILLE, TENN. (October 11, 2022) Nashville Ballet will once again welcome audiences into their studios for a one-of-a-kind immersive dance experience with Live in Studio A, November 4-13 at the Martin Center for Nashville Ballet. This intimate performance will give audiences the rare opportunity to see three stunning ballets and a live chamber ensemble from the coveted vantage point usually only enjoyed by members of the artistic staff or members of the cast.

“This is really a unique opportunity for audiences to see the artistry and athleticism of dance up close,” shared Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. “In a traditional theater setting, it’s inevitable that some elements of the production get lost in the distance between artist and audience member. But with Live in Studio A, every person is seated only a few feet away from the dancers, allowing them to absorb movement in a way that just isn’t possible outside of the studio. It’s truly a magical experience between audience member and artist, and our dancers can’t wait to share that with our community.”

Hosted on-site at the Martin Center for Nashville Ballet, Live in Studio A will showcase the budding talent of the organization’s artists with both new and world-class works. The program will include George Balanchine’s balletic masterpiece, The Four Temperaments. Both technically challenging and aesthetically riveting, The Four Temperaments blends both classical and modern movement to examine the medieval theory that we all possess four humors that make up our temperaments. The production will also include the return of Artistic Director Paul Vasterling’s beloved Seasons, featuring the music of Antonio Vivaldi recomposed by Max Richter, and the world premiere of CEO and Associate Artistic Director Nick Mullikin’s Four Loves.  

Seasons and Four Loves will be accompanied by a live chamber orchestra, featuring international violin sensation and award-winning instrumentalist Yvette Kraft. A 2021 NPR “From The Top” Fellow and solo performer, Kraft made her professional debut at just 11 years old with the Spokane Symphony Orchestra. Since then, she has played with several renowned companies, including the Interlochen Orchestra, Washington Idaho Symphony, Seattle’s Philharmonic Northwest Orchestra, and the Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra.

Live in Studio A will run at the Martin Center for Nashville Ballet November 4–13, 2022. To learn more about Nashville Ballet, upcoming performances, or to purchase tickets, please visit nashvilleballet.com.