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The Nutcracker 2024

The Nutcracker Ballet 2024 with Professional Guest Artists

PERFORMANCE DATES


  • Fri, Dec 13th | 7:00pm 
  • Sat, Dec 14th |  1:00pm
  • Sat, Dec 14th | 6:00pm
  • Sun, Dec 15th |  1:00pm


ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE

Minnesota Ballet Theatre proudly presents an unforgettable journey into the heart of the holiday season with an authentic experience like no other! Join us for the Twin Cities' most genuine rendition of The Nutcracker, performed by professional guest dancers and the talented students of Minnesota Ballet School. Restaged by Svetlana Bak-Gavrilova and Kirill Bak-Stepanoff, graduates of the prestigious Vaganova Ballet Academy, this marks the 23rd annual production of this cherished holiday tradition.


Prepare to be mesmerized by the artistry and elegance of our dancers as they breathe life into the story on stage. Dive deep into the enchanting world of Clara, the Nutcracker, and the Sugar Plum Fairy  as they whisk you away on a magical adventure filled  with wonder and joy.


This performance is not just a show; it's a celebration of heartwarming traditions. Join us in creating cherished memories with your loved ones as you witness the magic unfold before your eyes.

Make this holiday season unforgettable. 

Reserve your seats early, and become a part of this timeless and unforgettable celebration!


TICKET INFORMATION

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 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

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Friday, December 13 | 7:00pm

Big group discount. Every 10th ticket is FREE! 

Coupon Code 10tickets


Discount for children under 5 years old. Buy two adult tickets and get a child ticket for FREE! 

Coupon code 24childfree

GET TICKETS

Saturday, December 14 | 1:00pm

Big group discount. Every 10th ticket is FREE! 

Coupon Code 10tickets


Discount for children under 5 years old. Buy two adult tickets and get a child ticket for FREE! 

Coupon code 24childfree

GET TICKETS

Saturday, December 14 | 6:00pm

Big group discount. Every 10th ticket is FREE! 

Coupon Code 10tickets


Discount for children under 5 years old. Buy two adult tickets and get a child ticket for FREE! 

Coupon code 24childfree

GET TICKETS

Sunday, December 15 | 1:00pm

Big group discount. Every 10th ticket is FREE! 

Coupon Code 10tickets


Discount for children under 5 years old. Buy two adult tickets and get a child ticket for FREE! 

Coupon code 24childfree

GET TICKETS

MBT Nutcracker Program 2024

Download PDF

2024 FEATURED GUEST ARTISTS

Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)

Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)

Elena Olshin (Sugar Plam Fairy)

Photo by Allen Gonzalez of DFWPhotography, courtesy of Pegasus Contemporary Ballet.

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.

Support Elena

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. 

Support Jonathan

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.

Support Andrew

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. 

Support Sam

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 Alec

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


Minnesota Ballet Theatre is a 501(c)(3) organization. 

Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 

Tax ID #47-1671971

CLICK HERE TO GIVE TO THE MAX

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

timothy@tjslawoffice.com


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

Become a Sponsor: Support the Magic of MBT

Clara’s Crew

Nutcracker Princes and Princesses

Nutcracker Princes and Princesses

  • 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

Donate Now

Nutcracker Princes and Princesses

Nutcracker Princes and Princesses

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


Donate Now

Sugar Plum Fairies

Sugar Plum Fairies

Sugar Plum Fairies

  • Eighth-page ad in The Nutcracker program
  • Logo included on “Thank You” signage in the lobby
  • Two tickets to The Nutcracker

Donate Now

Toy Soldiers

Sugar Plum Fairies

Sugar Plum Fairies

  • Logo included in The Nutcracker program

Donate Now

The Nutcracker Ballet Video

Check out this great video

Ballet Brilliance: Supporting Excellence

We're immensely grateful for your unwavering support. Minnesota Ballet Theatre (MBT) has been a cultural cornerstone in the Twin Cities since 2014. With your belief in our mission, MBT continues to inspire audiences and nurture a love for dance. Your donation fuels our efforts, supporting artist salaries and innovative productions for our local community. Thank you for making a difference.

Pay with PayPal or a debit/credit card

NUTCRACKER GALLERY

Repertoire

Peter and the Wolf

Great Halloween Adventure

Carnival of the Animals

"Peter and the Wolf' is the tale of a brave little boy, who together with his friend the bird, traps a frightening wolf who is threatening the safety of the village," according to a news release.

"Musical instruments in the orchestral accompaniment represent each character in the ballet; narration throughout the performance helps the audience follow the story. The narrative assists even the youngest audience members in appreciating the delightful dances of Peter, Bird, Cat, Duck, Wolf and even Grandfather."

Carnival of the Animals

Great Halloween Adventure

Carnival of the Animals

This ever-popular musical work by Camille Saint-Saëns is now enhanced with dance steps in a new and thoroughly entertaining Ballet. The Carnival has never been so alive! The animals are having a carnival. There's the majestic lion, the braying mules, the dancing elephant, and the bouncy kangaroos. Even the fossils invited! With following most famous Dying Swan choreographed by Michael Fokin for Anna Pavlova. A timeless children's classic Carnival of the Animals Is clever, charming and musically sophisticated.

Great Halloween Adventure

Great Halloween Adventure

Great Halloween Adventure

Original Halloween Adventure — an exciting (and only slightly spooky) dance production for the whole family. Spooky things can happen on Halloween, but the forces of Good are very strong, and Good will win out in the end.

Paquita

Les Sylphides (Chopiniana)

Great Halloween Adventure

Grand Pas from the ballet “Paquita” is known worldwide for its choreography by M. Petipa and music by Leon Minkus. "Colorful costumes, inventive choreography and ageless music combine to make a memorable experience for theatergoers of all ages," the release said.

Les Sylphides (Chopiniana)

Les Sylphides (Chopiniana)

Les Sylphides (Chopiniana)

Originally entitled Chopiniana, this ballet was first  premiered in St. Petersburg in 1907  at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint PetersburgRestructured and presented in the first 1909 Ballets Russes season in Paris under Diaghilev's title, Les Sylphides, Fokine created this dance suite unifying music and movement in an implied drama of Romanticism. Les Sylphides is famous as the first "abstract" classical ballet without narrative structure or defined characters.

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Minnesota Ballet Theatre

14675 Martin Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344, United States 612.501.9208 minnesotaballettheatre@gmail.com


The Minnesota Ballet Theatre is a registered 501©(3) non-profit corporation, tax ID 47-1671971. 

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