SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET OPENS REGISTRATION FOR 2026 SUMMER CAMPS

Fabulously Creative Camps Combine Dance Training with Fun, Imaginative Activities for Kids

 School of Nashville Ballet has announced its 2026 Summer Camp schedule, with registration now open.  The school will offer half-day summer camps for young dancers, along with additional summer programming that includes community classes and Junior Intensives. The camps are designed to introduce children to dance through age-appropriate instruction focused on movement, creativity and foundational technique.  

Camp activities include dance instruction, basic choreography, creative art projects and structured active play. Each session concludes with a short, in-studio performance for family and friends at The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet.  

“Early exposure to ballet helps develop discipline, creativity and an appreciation for the arts,” said Jennifer Kulev, Director, School of Nashville Ballet. “These programs provide a welcoming introduction to ballet while encouraging confidence and self-expression.”

School of Nashville Ballet Summer Camp Schedule:

Magical Creatures Camp

Ages 4-6 yrs 

June 1-5 | 9 AM - 12 PM

July 6-10 | 9 AM - 12 PM 

Be transported to a fantasy land full of magic where imaginations run wild with mythical creatures such as fairies, unicorns, mermaids, dragons and wizards. 

Once Upon a Time Story Ballet Camp

Ages 7-9 yrs 

June 1-5 | 1 PM - 4 PM

July 6-10 | 1 PM - 4 PM 

Dancers will dive into the ballet world's most famous stories to learn about their plots, characters, music and choreography.  Ballets include The Nutcracker and other surprising selections to be revealed with the unveiling of our 2026-27 season.

Animal Adventure Camp

Ages 3-5 yrs

June 8-12 | 9 AM - 12 PM

June 22-26 | 9 AM - 12 PM 

Explore the Animal Kingdom while deepening creativity and an understanding of movement by studying the characteristics of various animal species. 

Broadway Stars Camp

Ages 6-9 yrs

June 8-12 | 1 PM - 4 PM

Calling all Tappers: The Great White Way beckons...in this Tap and Musical Theatre focused camp, dancers will study technique through their explorations of kid friendly musicals including Mary Poppins, Newsies, The Music Man and many more.

Royal Celebration Camp 

Ages 4-6 yrs 

June 15–19 | 9 AM - 12 PM

June 22–26 | 1 PM - 4 PM

From Princess Aurora to the Mouse King, this camp celebrates ballet's most majestic characters. Young dancers will be immersed in the stories and music of beloved ballets where each student can feel like royalty.

Cartoon Classics Camp

Ages 4-6 yrs 

June 15–19 | 1 PM - 4 PM

July 13–17 | 9 AM - 12 PM

Dancers will spring into the world of animation, drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved stories and cartoon characters in film and television. Whether it's Disney or Looney Tunes, the Peanuts Gang or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this camp offers something for everyone. 

Dance Through the Eras Camp

Ages 7-9 yrs 

July 13–17 | 1 PM - 4 PM

Time moves swiftly, and the art of dance evolves from decade to decade. Dancers will delve into the history of social dancing throughout the last century through a variety of dance styles accompanied by popular music.  From The Charleston to the Cabbage Patch, from Country Line dancing to Hip Hop on TikTok, campers will discover the cultural impact dance has made on society from the past to the present.

*Students must meet age requirements by June 1, 2026.  No exceptions.

To enroll or for more information about the 2026 Summer Camps, please visit www.nashvilleballet.com/summer-camps.

REGISTRATION DISCOUNT INFORMATION:  Receive $50 off when you enroll in a second camp. To take advantage of this discount, please call 615-297-2966 x 910 or email school@nashvilleballet.com BEFORE registering.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  This option is not available through online checkout.

JAMEY JOHNSON TO HEADLINE NASHVILLE BALLET’S 37TH ANNUAL BALLET BALL

Swan Lake-Inspired Black Tie Gala Returns March 7 to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Nashville Ballet is thrilled to announce 10-time GRAMMY nominee and Grand Ole Opry member Jamey Johnson will headline the entertainment for the 37th Annual Ballet Ball on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.  Inspired by the timeless beauty of Swan Lake, the highly-anticipated gala will blend classical elegance with contemporary celebration in honor of the Nashville Ballet’s milestone 40th Season. Johnson’s appearance will mark his second appearance at the annual Ballet Ball as he was part of a Johnny Cash tribute lineup in 2018.

Called “one of the greatest country singers of our time” by The Washington Post, Johnson brings a powerful blend of classic country, Americana and mainstream rock to the 2026 Ballet Ball. Guests will enjoy an exclusive, one-night-only performance by Johnson alongside special performances by Nashville Ballet company artists.

“I am excited to perform for a world-class arts organization like Nashville Ballet and their patrons who recognize the power of storytelling through dance and music,” said Jamey Johnson. “Nashville has an incredible arts scene right here in our own backyard and I’m thrilled to be performing for a community that truly values creativity.”

Johnson released his latest album, Midnight Gasoline, in November 2024 through a collaboration between his label Big Gassed Records and Warner Music Nashville. He also recently released “Never Gonna Be” with Ronnie Dunn and “Smoke” with Riley Green. Widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation, Johnson is one of only two artists in country music history, alongside Kris Kristofferson, to win two Song of the Year awards in the same year for “Give It Away” and “In Color,” from the ACM’s and CMA.

A consummate storyteller, Johnson’s songs have been recorded by George Strait, Trace Adkins, Willie Nelson, James Otto and Joe Nichols. His recent television performances, including “Georgia on My Mind” for the CBS special Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration, “Angels Among Us” for CMT Giants: Alabama and “Beer for My Horses” with Lainey Wilson for the NBC special Toby Keith: American Icon, have been widely recognized as standout moments. The Recording Industry Association of America has honored Johnson for more than 9 million sales and streams, including the 5X platinum-certified single “In Color.”

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 to evoking the elegance, mystery and grandeur of Tchaikovsky’s beloved work. Esteemed Nashville event planner Bruce Pittmanhas been charged with bringing this vision to life.

“The Ballet Ball is where Nashville’s creative spirit, generosity and love for the arts truly come together,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO of Nashville Ballet. “As we celebrate our 40th Season with a Swan Lake inspired evening, welcoming an artist of Jamey Johnson’s caliber elevates the experience for our patrons while directly supporting the work we do onstage and throughout the community.”

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 celebration will continue into the evening with the Late Party to include dancing with Bizz and Everyday People band.

Community leaders Neil Krugman, Lisa Manning and Julie Schneider are the Ball Co-Chairs, alongside Honorary Chair Barbara Turner, helping lead one of Nashville Ballet’s most important fundraising events. Additionally, Catherine Bradbury, Eli Gibbons, Sophie Scott Howard, Preston Howard and Kimberly Macdonald are the Late Party Co-Chairs for one of Nashville’s most anticipated and impactful evenings of the year.

The annual black-tie event is a cornerstone fundraiser for Nashville Ballet and a driving force behind the organization’s Community Engagement and Education Initiatives. During the 2024–25 season alone, these programs delivered more than 55,000 arts experiences to Middle Tennesseans, including free tickets to Nashville’s Nutcracker, Storytime performances at local libraries and dance education programs in 40 schools. With over 23,000 individuals reached through free performances, Nashville Ballet continues ensuring the beauty and impact of dance remain accessible to all.

Nashville Ballet is proud to acknowledge the generous support behind this special celebration honoring the company’s 40th Season, including HCA Healthcare/TriStar Health, Littler Mendelson, P.C., Pinnacle Financial Partners and The Sandra Schatten Foundation. In addition, the Late Party is sponsored by Polsinelli. Their partnership helps make this milestone evening possible.

Underwriting opportunities and reservations for the annual gala are still available. For more information, email events@nashvilleballet.com or for tickets to the Ballet Ball Late Party, visit NashvilleBallet.com/late-party.

The Ballet Ball’s Swan Lake inspired theme pays homage to one of ballet’s most iconic masterpieces as the full-length production returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall from February 27 – March 1, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at NashvilleBallet.com or by phone at 615-297-2966 ext. 710.

Photo by David McClister

SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET OPENS VIDEO AUDITIONS FOR 2026 SUMMER INTENSIVES

School of Nashville Ballet has opened video auditions for its 2026 Summer Intensives, including the highly selective Company Immersion Intensive and Contemporary Intensive, as leadership seeks top emerging talent from across the country.

Due to strong national demand, video auditions will be accepted until programs reach capacity, with a final deadline of March 20, 2026.

Dancers selected for the Company Immersion or Contemporary Intensive will be automatically considered for Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2) and select year-round training programs, positioning the intensives as a direct pipeline to professional development.

Instruction will be led by Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet; Dmitri Kulev, incoming Director of NB2 and Head of the Men’s Program; and Jennifer Kulev, School of Nashville Ballet Director, alongside additional guest artists.

“Our summer intensives are designed to mirror the realities of professional ballet,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet. “Through rigorous training and performance-based experience, we prepare dancers with the technical foundation, discipline and artistic readiness required to take the next step in their professional development.”

Company Immersion Intensive

The five-week Company Immersion Intensive (ages 17–22) is designed for advanced pre-professional dancers seeking a professional training environment.  Participants engage in daily technique classes and rehearsals while collaborating with guest choreographers and Nashville-based musicians.  The program culminates in a live performance production, offering dancers an immersive experience into company life.

2026 Summer Intensive Auditions

Company Immersion Intensive & Summer Intensive (Sessions I–VI)

Summer Intensive 

Video Audition: HERE

All dancers are considered for NB2 and year-round programs

Contemporary Intensive

Video Audition: HERE

Limited enrollment. Admission by audition.

Swan Lake Returns to TPAC as Nashville Ballet Unveils the Spectacular Classic Production

The Iconic Full-Length Ballet Returns Feb. 27 – March 1, 2026, with Live Orchestra and Debut Performances in the Principal Roles

Nashville Ballet will bring Swan Lake, one of the most iconic works in classical ballet back to the stage for the first time since 2018 with a full-length production February 27 – March 1, 2026,at Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall.  Performed live to Tchaikovsky’s soaring score by The Nashville Symphony, the production marks a major artistic moment for the company and its dancers.

Choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling and inspired by the original works of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, Swan Lake is widely regarded as the definitive classical ballet that tells the story of Prince Siegfried and Odette, a Swan Queen cursed by an evil sorcerer to live as a swan by day and a woman by night. Only a vow of true love can break the spell. The ballet explores themes of love, deception and redemption through some of the most demanding and emotionally complex roles in classical dance.  

Nashville Ballet is the city’s premier and most authentic home for classical ballet, bringing Swan Lake to the stage with unmatched authority and artistic distinction. As Nashville’s resident professional ballet company, it delivers a level of craftsmanship, musicality and theatrical grandeur that defines true classical performance.  With a live orchestra, internationally trained artists and a legacy of original productions, this Swan Lake is not simply an event, it is Nashville’s definitive presentation of one of ballet’s greatest works.

“Swan Lake holds a special place in the classical canon and in Nashville Ballet’s history,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO of Nashville Ballet. “This production honors the tradition audiences expect while showcasing the power, athleticism and emotional clarity of today’s dancers in roles that define a classical career.”

A highlight of the 2026 run will be a series of principal role debuts, as four dancers step into the ballet’s most iconic and demanding roles for the first time.  Lily Saito and Colette Tilinski will alternate as Odette/Odile, while James Lankford and Jorge Emilio Peña alternate as Prince Siegfried. The dual role of Odette/Odile is widely considered the most challenging in classical ballet, requiring a single dancer to embody two dramatically opposite characters with extraordinary stamina, precision and emotional range.  Prince Siegfried presents a different but equally critical challenge, demanding sustained strength, flawless partnering and the ability to carry the ballet’s emotional arc.

The return of Swan Lake highlights Nashville Ballet’s rise as a nationally recognized company, delivering productions of remarkable scale and artistic ambition.

Performance Schedule:

• Friday, February 27, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.

• Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

• Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 2 p.m.

Swan Lake is recommended for audiences of all ages.   Tickets start at $54 and are on sale now at www.nashvilleballet.com/swan-lake-2526. 

Nashville Ballet’s 37th Annual Ballet Ball    

The Nashville Ballet will host Nashville Ballet’s 37th Annual Ballet Ballfundraising gala on 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.   Underwriting opportunities are available now that provide access to all Ballet Ball events.  

Photo by Karyn Photography

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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.