PERFORMANCE DATES
ABOUT THE SHOW
Celebrate the holiday season with a truly authentic experience! Join us for Twin Cities' most genuine Russian classical version of "The Nutcracker," set to Tchaikovsky's timeless music. Our performance stays true to the original Marius Petipa choreography, bringing you the magic and enchantment of this beloved holiday ballet.
Be captivated by the grace and beauty of our dancers as they bring the story to life on stage. Immerse yourself in the wondrous world of Clara, the Nutcracker, and the Sugar Plum Fairy, as they take you on a magical journey.
Experience the heartwarming traditions of this classic ballet, and create cherished memories with your loved ones. Secure your seats early and be a part of this unforgettable holiday celebration!
TICKET PRICE RANGE $27-39
VIP TICKETS $75
Enjoy the best seats in the house, a personalized photo opportunity with the dancers, and an autographed poster to commemorate the evening. Skip the lines, glide backstage to your seats, and immerse yourself in the enchantment of this timeless ballet. Elevate your Nutcracker experience and create unforgettable memories with our exclusive VIP PLUS tickets!
RUNNING TIME
One hour and 40 minutes with one 20-minute intermission
VENUE
Eden Prairie Performing Arts Center
17185 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55346
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.
Elena is thrilled to join Minnesota Ballet Theatre for this year’s production of The Nutcracker, bringing her artistry and passion for ballet to this beloved holiday classic.
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.
We are delighted to welcome Cristian as the Nutcracker Prince in this year’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker! Hailing from Cali, Colombia, Cristian is an exceptionally talented and versatile dance artist known for his incredible range in both classical ballet and contemporary dance.
Cristian began his formal training at the Instituto Colombiano de Ballet, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Classical Ballet. He further honed his craft at the prestigious Escuela Nacional de Ballet de Cuba on a full scholarship. Over the years, he has captivated audiences as a Principal Dancer with renowned companies such as the Milwaukee Ballet and the Slovak National Ballet, showcasing his artistry in beloved productions like Swan Lake, Don Quixote, and La Bayadère.
As a sought-after guest artist, Cristian has traveled the world, performing and teaching in places like Japan, Brazil, and Europe. His diverse repertoire includes works by celebrated choreographers such as George Balanchine, Twyla Tharp, and Martha Graham, alongside new creations from rising talents. Beyond his performance work, Cristian serves as a Rehearsal Director, sharing his passion and expertise by mentoring fellow dancers and helping to bring new choreographic visions to life.
With his rich experience and deep understanding of dance, Cristian is set to bring a magical presence to the Nutcracker Prince role. Don’t miss the chance to see him shine in this beloved holiday classic, bringing joy and artistry to the stage alongside the talented cast of Minnesota Ballet Theatre.
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.
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, 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.
Minnesota Ballet Theatre’s Spring Production 2024 will feature two highly anticipated classical ballets: the charming children's ballet "Peter and the Wolf" and the exquisite Grand Pas from "Paquita." This enchanting showcase is tentatively scheduled for March 21 at 1:00 pm and will be shaped in accordance with public health guidance. Please note that details are subject to change, so stay tuned for updates as we finalize our plans.
The Best of Classics, performed by Minnesota Ballet Theatre & School, celebrates twenty-five years of classical ballet training. This special recital will feature original choreography for younger students, classical variations for advanced dancers, and performances by Minnesota Ballet Theatre's apprentices and trainees from world-renowned ballets.
Join us on May 10 at 1:00 pm at the Eden Prairie High School Auditorium for this memorable event.