The Nutcracker Audition 2023
Audition for MBS students aged 5-19
We are thrilled to announce that Minnesota Ballet Theatre is providing an incredible opportunity for the students of Minnesota Ballet School to participate in the timeless classic, The Nutcracker. Auditions are open to children aged 5-19 who have a passion for dance and performing. Don't miss the chance to be a part of this beloved story ballet and showcase your talent on our prestigious stage! Join us for a memorable journey into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker!
The Nutcracker performances will be presented in adherence to public health guidelines, ensuring the safety and well-being of our audience and performers are scheduled to take place from December 15-17 at the beautiful Eden Prairie Performing Arts Center.
Ballet Level 1-6 (ages 8-19)
Auditions will be held on Sunday, September 10 at MBS studio,
14675 Martin Dr. Suite 400 Eden Prairie MN 55344
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 $21
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 $27
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.
Pre-Ballet Level (ages 5-8)
Auditions will be held on Sunday September 24 at MBS studio,
14675 Martin Dr Suite 400 Eden Prairie MN 55344
Registration: Please arrive 15 min before your scheduled audition time to check in.
10:30-11:00 am Pre-Ballet Levels (age 5-8) • Audition Fee $16
Audition is for the following parts: Angels, Mice, Theatre Puppets, Clowns.
Performers will be cast in the Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances.
Commitment: Commitment is crucial for all dancers participating in The Nutcracker. It's essential that dancers prioritize rehearsals and performances over other extra-curricular activities. Rehearsals will commence in October, varying based on assigned roles, and will take place after regular classes on class days or on Saturdays and Sundays. The schedule, including two dress rehearsals, will be posted on the Bulletin Board in the MBS lobby and the Rehearsal Schedule Page on the MBS website. For any last-minute changes, please reach out to Kirill Bak at (612) 501-9208.
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.
Attention all parents!
Please ensure parents' attendance at the Nutcracker Meeting:
Level 1-6 on Sunday, September 10, from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Pre-Ballet on Sunday September 24, from 11:00AM-11:15AM
We kindly request that a parent or guardian from each household be present at the meeting. The meeting will cover designated responsibilities for the safety of children during rehearsals and production, provide Parent Volunteer Forms, and discuss essential volunteer positions such as backstage assistants, dressing room "moms," gift table attendants, concessions, set up and tear down teams, encouraging parents, family members, and friends to sign up for these vital roles that promise a fun and memorable Nutcracker production.
We Need Your Support Now
It would be MBT 19th annual Nutcracker, and it is very sadness that our talented dancers cannot be on stage this weekends due to the unprecedented challenge of Covid-19.In compliance with our Governor’s mandate to limit large gatherings, to prevent further spread of the coronavirus, Minnesota Ballet Theatre and School has postponed its The Nutcracker revenue generating event, and suspended operations of the Minnesota Ballet School and its arts education and community engagement programming. The result is a crippling in lost revenue for the institution and like most non-profit organizations, we do not have the contingency funds for use in times of civil emergencies, such as this pandemic.Now more than ever, we need your support. Please consider contributing, to help us during this critical time. Every contribution is significant in helping us to sustain operations, and deeply appreciated by everyone at MBS.With your support, we will once again prevail during this precarious time.
2023 FEATURED GUEST ARTISTS
ALIAKSANDRA KRUKAVA (Sugar Plam)
Aliaksandra is a proud graduate of the Minsk Ballet Academy, where she honed her skills before venturing into a transformative 6-month internship in Manchester, UK.
As a Principal Dancer at the Minsk State Theatre of Opera and Ballet and the Russian National Ballet, Aliaksandra has graced the stage with elegance and precision. Her repertoire includes iconic roles such as Odillia in "Swan Lake," Kitry in "Don Quixote," and Princess Aurora in "Sleeping Beauty."
A seasoned performer with an 8-year career, Aliaksandra's dance style is a fusion of dynamic energy and traditional grace, evident in her unforgettable portrayal of Kitry in "Don Quixote."
Join us in celebrating Aliaksandra's artistry—a dance journey that harmonizes body movements with musical rhythms, creating a visual masterpiece with every performance.
NURLAN KINERBAYEV (Sugar Plam Cavalier)
Born in the cultural heart of Taraz, Kazakhstan, Nurlan is a luminary in the world of ballet. A graduate of the Almaty Choreographic College and the University Bolashak, Kyzylorda, Nurlan's journey as a ballet dancer has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Nurlan's artistry has graced the stages of renowned ballet companies, including the Moscow City Ballet and the Russian National Ballet. His remarkable talent shines through a diverse repertoire of lead roles, encompassing iconic characters like Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake, Basilio in Don Quixote, Prince Desire in Sleeping Beauty, and Albert in Giselle, to name a few.
Beyond his laurels as a laureate of International Ballet Competitions, Nurlan embodies versatility in his craft. A collaborative artist, he seamlessly navigates between drama, comedy, and romance, taking direction with finesse. Nurlan's dedication is unparalleled, practicing a role until it achieves perfection.
In every pirouette and grand jeté, Nurlan Mr Kinerbayev continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his artistic prowess and unwavering commitment to the timeless beauty of ballet.
BORIS CEBALLOS (Nutcracker Prince)
Boris, a native of Cali, Colombia, commenced his dance journey at the Colombian Classical Ballet Institute (Incolballet) at a young age. His early training included active participation in numerous festivals with the company and engagements in competitions and events alongside the Cuban National Ballet.
Subsequently, Boris made a significant move to New York City, where he completed his education at ABT (JKO) under the esteemed guidance of Franco De Vita, Raymond Lukens, Martine van Hamel, and Kevin McKenzie. During this time, he honed his skills and developed into a dancer of exceptional caliber.
As a former principal dancer with Orlando Ballet, Boris has left an indelible mark on the dance scene. His talents have been showcased in various prestigious competitions and galas, including YAGP, ADC, WBC, IBC USA, and IBC China, where he not only participated but also garnered acclaim as both a dancer and choreographer.
Currently, Boris Ceballos is actively contributing to the dance community as part of Skyra Studios in Orlando, collaborating with Henry Hernandez. His artistry and expertise continue to unfold, promising a captivating experience for audiences.
Witness the enchanting magic as Boris Ceballos graces our stage, adding an extra layer of artistry to our beloved production.
ANDREW LESTER (Nutcracker Prince)
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.
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.