Auditions
Minnesota Ballet Theatre hiring Male and Female dancers for 2021-2022 season productions.
Spring Production 2022 will include 2 enormously popular classical ballets.Children’s ballet “Peter and the Wolf” and Grand Pas from ballet “Paquita”. Showcase will take shape according to public health guidance, and may be presented March 26 at 1:00pm.
MBT WILL ACCEPT RÉSUMÉS AND VIDEO AUDITIONS.
Videos posted to YouTube may be included in links and e-mailing with your résumé to: minnesotaballettheatre@gmail.com
Videos should include a classical variation (en pointe for women) Latest performance video is preferred if possible.
Spring Production Audition
Spring Production 2022 will include 2 enormously popular classical ballets.Children’s ballet “Peter and the Wolf” and Grand Pas from ballet “Paquita”.
Showcase will take shape according to public health guidance, and may be presented March 26 at 1:00pm.
Event COVID-19 Preparedness Plan
Safety and screening
Staff and visitors attending the event are asked to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms using the Stay Safe MN Health Screening Checklist. Staff and visitors exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 during their visit will be asked to leave the venue.
COVID vaccines are being administered across Minnesota. We encourage attendees to get vaccinated before attending. Vaccines are the best way to prevent infection and limit the spread of COVID-19 to others. For more information, see the MDH COVID-19 Vaccine webpage.
Masks
Masks are required for all guests ages 3 and older, regardless of vaccination status, except people with health conditions. Face coverings may be temporarily removed while eating or drinking provided that physical distancing is maintained. If staff and visitors arrive without a mask, masks are available at the box office.
Ticketing
Ticket purchases are encouraged to be completed prior to arriving to Event. However, walk-up sales will be permitted and patrons can purchase tickets at the Box Office. All patrons are strongly encouraged to use mobile tickets, delivered to their personal devices.
The Nutcracker Auditions 2022
Sunday, September 11 | Ballet 1-6 Level
Minnesota Ballet Theatre is pleased to offer the students of Minnesota Ballet School an opportunity to participate in the most well-known and beloved story ballet of all times, The Nutcracker. Auditions will be held on Sunday September 11 at MBS studio, 14675 Martin Dr Suite 400 Eden Prairie MN 55344
The Nutcracker contract should be signed with the attached payment fees and $175.00 performance fee before the audition and can be sent by mail or
dropped in MBS mailbox by September 11th. All fees nonrefundable.
Registration: Please arrive 15 min before your scheduled audition time to check in.
10:45-11:30 am Ballet 1, 2 and 3 Levels (ages 8-12) • Audition Fee $20
Audition is for the following parts: Soldiers, Rats act 2 (no dance experience required), Party Boys, Party Girls, Chinese Dance, Russian Dance, Waltz of the Flowers
12:00-1:00 pm Ballet 4, 5 and 6 Levels (ages 12-19) • Audition Fee $25
Audition is for the following parts: Rats, Snowflakes, Arabian, Pas de Trois, Waltz of the Flowers. 2 years of Ballet and 1 year of Pointe technique required.
Performers will be cast in the Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances.
The Nutcracker performances will take shape according to public health guidance, and may be presented December 16-18
Commitment: All dancers must be willing to commit to a busy schedule of rehearsals and performances. Other extra-curricular activities must not take precedence. Rehearsals will begin in October, depending upon assigned role, and will be every Class day (after the regular class) or Saturday and Sunday until the week of performances, which will include two dress rehearsals. Schedules will be posted on the Bulletin Board in the MBS lobby and on the MBS website (Rehearsal Schedule Page) and can be confirmed with Kirill Bak at (612) 501-9208 in case of any last minute changes.
Attire:
Students should arrive wearing the leotards appropriate for their class level and pink tights. Hair must be in a neat bun and fastened away from their face.
Parent Information:
Parents are requested to attend a Nutcracker Meeting in person at 11:30-12:00pm on Sunday September 11.
There should be a parent/guardian from each household in attendance. This meeting will give parents the information about designated responsibilities for the safety of their children during the term of the rehearsals and production. Parent Volunteer Forms will be provided and we will discuss the many volunteer positions that need to be assigned every year, such as: backstage assistants, dressing room “moms” for each group of dancers, gift table attendants, concessions, set up and tear down teams, etc. These are necessary and vital roles to our production, therefore, we encourage parents, other family members and friends to sign up for these duties. You will find that, if past years are the measure, these positions can be a lot of fun, an amazing experience and the key to a smooth and memorable Nutcracker production.
Cyber Monday – 24 Hours to Save 15%
ONE DAY ONLY – Save 15% on The Nutcracker, use code: MONNUT21
* Offer ends 11/29/21 at 11:59 p.m.
Upcoming Auditions
The Nutcracker Professional Company Audition
Minnesota Ballet Theatre is holding auditions for local professional male and female dancers with a strong classical ballet background to join 2024 production of
The Nutcracker.
We are seeking talented dancers for various roles, with some positions offering compensation depending on the cast.
Audition Details:
- Date: September 7, 1:30pm
- Location: Minnesota Ballet Theatre & School
14675 Martin Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 5534 - Requirements: Strong classical ballet technique
- Performance dates: December 13-15, 4 shows
- Compensation: Some roles may be paid depending on the part.
Company Apprentices & Trainees Auditions
Minnesota Ballet Theatre is seeking talented male and female dancers with strong classical technique to join our Company Trainee and Company Apprentice positions for the 2024/2025 Season. The season runs from September 2024 to May 2025.
Apprentice positions are intended for dancers who have either graduated from college, gained professional experience, or completed a Trainee program with the company. This role represents the final stage before joining Minnesota Ballet Theatre as a full company member.
Trainee positions are designed for students who have graduated high school and are eager to refine their artistry and technique. This program serves as a crucial step toward entering the professional dance world, providing dancers with advanced training and the opportunity to dance alongside the professional company. It focuses on further honing technique and developing performance skills.
Apprentices and Trainees attend all classes with the professional company and engage in performances/understudy roles within the MBT repertoire.
Schedule:
- Classes and rehearsals typically take place Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (schedule subject to change).
- Additional sessions on Saturdays from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- Extra sessions on Sundays before performances.
Compensation:
- Company Apprentices and Trainees participate in unpaid rehearsals.
- Apprentices may receive compensation for performances. (performance fee based on the number of shows).
- Company Trainee positions are tuition-based and provide a comprehensive training schedule with Minnesota Ballet Theatre.
In-Person Audition for Trainees and Company Apprentices:
To schedule your in-person audition, please contact us via email at minnesotaballettheatre@gmail.com to arrange a convenient date and time. Please also submit your resume/CV, a headshot, a dance picture, and an optional video link.
2024 FEATURED GUEST ARTISTS
Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Elena , originally from Rockville, Maryland, began her ballet training at the age of four at the American Dance Institute under the tutelage of Pamela Bjerknes, Erin Mahoney-Du, and Runqiao Du. Her dedication to dance led her to attend prestigious summer intensives, including the Kirov Academy of Ballet, The Bolshoi Ballet, The Rock School, and Ballet West.
During her early training, Elena was selected for the Kennedy Center Masterclass Series for two consecutive years and competed in the Youth America Grand Prix semi-finals and New York City Finals. She also performed as a soloist at the Tanzolymp Dance Festival in Berlin, Germany.
Elena completed her formal training at the Akhmedova Ballet Academy, where she studied for four years before joining First State Ballet Theatre (FSBT) in Wilmington, Delaware. Over her four seasons with FSBT, she performed in nearly every major classical ballet, taking on notable roles such as Cupid in Don Quixote, Canary Fairy in The Sleeping Beauty, Ocean and Pearls Pas de Trois, and the Pas de Deux from Flames of Paris. She also collaborated with choreographer Viktor Plotnikov on the premieres of Romeo and Juliet and Dracula.
In the 2021/22 season, Elena joined Bowen McCauley Dance Company, performing Exuberant Fanfare and Insistent Music by Lucy Bowen McCauley at the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Stage during the company’s 25th Anniversary Performance. Concurrently, she became a Resident Guest Artist at Wilmington Ballet, where she performed roles such as Dewdrop and Snow Queen in The Nutcracker, Waltz from Les Sylphides, and The Dying Swan.
In 2022, Elena moved to Dallas and is now in her third season with Pegasus Contemporary Ballet. She has performed works by artistic director Diana Crowder and choreographers Daniel Palladino, Michelle Thompson, Joshua Puegh, Thang Dao, Daniel Ojeda, Sean Aaron Carmon, Carrie Ruth Trumbo, and Kevin Jenkins.
Jonathan Robbins (Sugar Plam Cavalier)
Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Originally from Ogden, Utah, Jonathan began dancing at the age of five and continued through middle and high school. His early ballet training took root at the Julie Moffitt Ballet School in Richmond, Virginia, where he discovered his passion for dance.
At age 19, he embarked on rigorous training at Ballet West Academy under esteemed coaches Nikolai Moroz and Jeff Rogers. He then continued his studies with Richmond Ballet, working closely with mentors Igor Antonov and Deanna Seay, and participated in the company’s performances, including The Nutcracker.
Jonathan’s professional career began with Nevada Ballet Theatre in Ben Stevenson's Dracula, and he went on to dance with New Orleans Ballet Theatre for three years. With NOBT, he brought characters to life in soloist roles in Romeo and Juliet, Carmina Burana, The Nutcracker, and Dracula, showcasing his range and expressive talent.
Having performed in diverse ballets, from Swan Lake to Romeo and Juliet, Jonathan is eager to bring his artistry to Minnesota audiences. This season, he’s especially excited to debut in Minnesota—a place he had yet to visit—and to perform with such a prestigious academy.
Don’t miss the magic of Jonathan’s performance as he brings elegance, strength, and warmth to the role of the Sugar Plum Cavalier.
Andrew Lester (Drosselmeyer)
Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Sam Neale (Nutcracker Prince, Snow Prince, Spanish, Pa de Trois)
Andrew is a highly acclaimed professional dancer based in St. Paul. In 2006, he earned his BFA in Dance from the University of Minnesota, marking the beginning of a nearly two-decade-long journey as a prominent figure in the Twin Cities dance community.
For six seasons, Andrew served as a full-time company member of the renowned James Sewell Ballet, contributing significantly to the company's artistic endeavors. Additionally, he has been an integral part of the local modern dance scene, dedicating over 12 years to Shapiro & Smith Dance, a prominent modern dance company in the Twin Cities.
Andrew's artistic versatility extends to his role as a freelance artist, collaborating with esteemed Minnesota-based companies such as Twin Cities Ballet of MN, Metropolitan Ballet, Continental Ballet, Eclectic Edge Ensemble, Ethnic Dance Theatre, Stuart Pimsler Dance & Theater, and the Minnesota Opera.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the dance world, Andrew received the prestigious Sage Award for Outstanding Performer in 2012. This accolade was a testament to his exceptional work in Shapiro & Smith's production of "Family" and Joseph Morrissey's "One."
Throughout his illustrious career, Andrew has had the privilege of performing for modern dance legend Merce Cunningham. He has also received guidance from celebrated ballerina Anna-Marie Holmes, enriching his artistic journey with invaluable mentorship.
Among his notable achievements, Andrew had the honor of premiering "Titicut Follies: The Ballet" with James Sewell Ballet, both in New York City and at the Festival de Danse in Cannes, France. These experiences stand as significant highlights in a career marked by dedication, artistry, and a profound impact on the dance community.
Sam Neale (Nutcracker Prince, Snow Prince, Spanish, Pa de Trois)
Sam Neale (Nutcracker Prince, Snow Prince, Spanish, Pa de Trois)
Sam Neale (Nutcracker Prince, Snow Prince, Spanish, Pa de Trois)
We are thrilled to introduce Sam as this season’s Snow Prince and Spanish lead in The Nutcracker! Originally from Australia, Sam’s journey in dance has taken him from his early training at the Atelier School for Classical Ballet to esteemed roles on stages worldwide. Sam continued his studies on scholarship at The McDonald College in Australia, where he danced with Premier State Ballet under the guidance of Josephine Jason and Allan Cross.
After completing summers with Milwaukee Ballet, he joined Milwaukee Ballet II in 2010. During his time there, Sam danced in acclaimed productions, including Lila York’s Celts, Salvatore Aiello’s Clowns and Others, and Michael Pink’s Dracula and Esmeralda. He joined Minnesota Ballet in 2012, where he graced the stage in memorable roles like the Prince in The Nutcracker, Kostchei in The Firebird, and Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake.
Now with Eugene Ballet, Sam has taken on leading roles in Toni Pimble’s The Nutcracker and The Little Mermaid, among others. He has also performed as a guest artist with companies such as St. Lucie Ballet, Ballet Co.Laboratory, and Minnesota Dance Theatre.
Join us as Sam brings his talent and passion to our Nutcracker stage, bringing holiday magic and charm to the roles of the Snow Prince and Spanish lead.
Alec Trelstad (Rat King)
Sam Neale (Nutcracker Prince, Snow Prince, Spanish, Pa de Trois)
Alec Trelstad (Rat King)
Alec, a multifaceted artist hailing from Minnesota, boasts talents as a dancer, actor, and visual artist. His performances have graced various venues across the Twin Cities, including the Ritz Theater, The Guthrie Theater, and The Cowles Center.
This marks Alec's third classical ballet appearance under the training of MN Ballet School, and he expresses genuine excitement for the opportunity to showcase his dance prowess. Reflecting on his journey, Alec shares a powerful message, stating, "I encourage dancers of any discipline or style to immerse yourself in this amazing art form. It's not only a challenge that refines your technique but also a journey that expands your confidence and stretches the boundaries of your musical expression."
Alec's commitment to the arts and his passion for dance shine through, making him a dynamic force in Minnesota's vibrant artistic community.
Support Us
Give To The Max Day
Dear Friends of Minnesota Ballet Theatre,
As we celebrate Give to the MAX Day 2024, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support of Minnesota Ballet Theatre (MBT). Ballet is an art form that inspires, unites, and brings beauty to everyone. At Minnesota Ballet School & Theatre, we believe in the transformative power of ballet and its ability to inspire and enrich our community. We are committed to making this beautiful art form accessible to all.
Our journey began over twenty years ago when we, Svetlana Bak-Gavrilova and Kirill Bak-Stepanoff, graduates of the prestigious Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, brought our love for ballet from Russia to America in 1998. After dancing professionally with local ballet companies, we fulfilled our dream by founding the Academy of Russian Ballet in 2001, now known as Minnesota Ballet School. In 2014, we expanded our vision by establishing Minnesota Ballet Theatre as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, which has since become a cherished cultural institution in the Twin Cities.
MBT has enriched our community with world-class ballet and arts education, bringing the beauty and power of ballet to all. Our productions, ranging from the timeless classic The Nutcracker to heartwarming performances like Peter and the Wolf, The Great Halloween Adventure, and Carnival of the Animals, have delighted audiences of all ages. We are committed to fostering the next generation of dancers and ensuring that ballet remains a vital and transformative force in our community.
Our Mission
At Minnesota Ballet Theatre, we are dedicated to nurturing local talent and enriching our community’s cultural landscape. Our goal is to become Minnesota's premier professional classical ballet company, creating exceptional performances that captivate and inspire audiences. We are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for artists, fostering their growth, and supporting them through fair employment practices right here in Minnesota.
We also recognize the importance of collaborating with world-class guest artists. Your support helps us bring talented professionals from across the globe to perform alongside our local dancers. These guest stars elevate the artistry of our performances, offering our dancers invaluable learning experiences while providing audiences with unforgettable performances.
We believe that Minnesota deserves access to world-class ballet performances crafted by local artists, for local audiences. With your support, our mission continues to thrive—bringing innovative productions to life and cultivating a deep appreciation for the art of dance in our community. Together, we are shaping a future filled with extraordinary performances and cherished memories.
Why Your Support Matters
Every donation, large or small, is essential in supporting our dancers, programs, and productions. With your generosity, we can:
- Sustain Local Artistic Excellence: Focusing on Russian ballet traditions, we train and nurture talent here in Minnesota, inspiring both local dancers and audiences.
- Build a Professional Ballet Community: Your support helps create career opportunities for our dancers, ensuring they can grow professionally within our state.
- Support Guest Star Artists: By bringing in talented guest artists, your donations help elevate the quality of our performances and provide our dancers with exceptional mentorship.
- Create Stunning Productions: From costumes to sets, your contributions enable us to create immersive, captivating performances that elevate the art of ballet.
- Provide Accessible Dance Education: Through scholarships and financial assistance, we open the doors of ballet to families and children, regardless of their financial situation.
How You Can Help
Your generous support fuels our mission and ensures that ballet continues to inspire, unite, and bring beauty to our community. Together, we are building a legacy that will shape future generations of dancers and audiences.
Thank you for being part of our journey and for believing in the future of ballet in Minnesota.
Warmest regards,
Minnesota Ballet Theatre is a 501(c)(3) organization.
Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Tax ID #47-1671971
Sponsorship Opportunities
Dear Friends, Patrons, and Partners,
Each year, Minnesota Ballet Theatre brings Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker, to life with original choreography inspired by Marius Petipa. This timeless ballet draws hundreds of attendees from across the Twin Cities and has become a cherished holiday tradition for families in our community. This year’s production will run from December 13-15, 2024, with four captivating performances at the Eden Prairie Performing Arts Center.
Minnesota Ballet Theatre (MBT) is currently offering sponsorship opportunities for businesses interested in supporting local performing arts while connecting with an engaged audience of theatergoers, families, and ballet enthusiasts.
As a nonprofit organization, Minnesota Ballet Theatre is dedicated to fostering a love for classical ballet, contemporary works, and the performing arts throughout the Twin Cities. We take pride in honoring the classical ballet tradition, delighting audiences, and inspiring the next generation of dancers through training in balance, strength, coordination, and musicality.
Through its commitment to the arts, MBT has made its presence felt in the community through events such as the Chanhassen 4th of July Parade and the annual Nutcracker Turkey Trot 5K in Eden Prairie.
With our 2024 production of The Nutcracker, MBT aims to raise $20,000 to continue offering exceptional performances and supporting its talented dancers and staff. To achieve this, we are inviting local businesses to join us as sponsors.
Sponsorship Levels:
$1,500 – Clara’s Crew
- Half-page ad in The Nutcracker program
- Prominent logo placement on “Thank You” signage in the lobby
- Social media acknowledgment before and after the performance
- Four VIP tickets to The Nutcracker
$750 – Nutcracker Princes and Princesses
- Quarter-page ad in The Nutcracker program
- Logo included on “Thank You” signage in the lobby
- Social media acknowledgment before and after the performance
- Two VIP tickets to The Nutcracker
$350 – Sugar Plum Fairies
- Eighth-page ad in The Nutcracker program
- Logo included on “Thank You” signage in the lobby
- Two tickets to The Nutcracker
$100 – Toy Soldiers
- Logo included in The Nutcracker program
All sponsorships must be finalized by Friday, November 29, to be included in The Nutcracker program and lobby materials.
By becoming a sponsor, your business will gain visibility and recognition among local families and ballet supporters while helping sustain and grow Minnesota Ballet Theatre’s mission of bringing exceptional art and culture to the Twin Cities.
For more information or to confirm your sponsorship, please contact:
TJ Scott
Sponsor Coordinator
Minnesota Ballet Theatre
952-215-4707
Thank you for your support in creating a magical and memorable holiday season for our community. Together, we can inspire, delight, and foster a love for the performing arts.
Warm regards,
Minnesota Ballet Theatre