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Spring 2024
Bargain Classes
Don't miss out on MBS's Spring Bargain Open Classes for ALL Dancers! These classes will run from February 26 to March 16, providing an exceptional opportunity to experience our Vaganova Method program, enhancing your ballet technique while staying fit, all without any obligation! Sign up now!
Level 2-3 (ages 9–12):
- Tuesdays: 4:30–6:30pm
- Saturdays: 11:00am-1:00pm
- Price: $10 per class
Level 4 (age 12–14):
- Tuesdays, Thursdays: 4:30–6:30pm
- Saturdays: 11:00am-1:00pm
- Price: $10 per class
Level 5-6 (age 14–19):
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 4:30–6:30pm
- Saturdays: 11:00am-1:00pm
- Price: $10 per class
Video Audition
Video Audition
Will be accepted until June 1, 2024 (so long as space remains available in the program). Video Fee: $40.
How to submit a video audition: Please record a 5-10 minute video audition using the suggested exercises below. Upload your video to YouTube, Vimeo, etc. Provide the link (URL)
ZOOM audition can be arranged by special request.
Pre-Professional Day Ballet Program Audition
In-Person Audition, August 10
If you are interested in transitioning from a student career to a professional ballet career, applying for our Pre-Professional program can be a valuable next step. This program is for dancers ages 12-18 and also accommodates homeschoolers, allowing flexibility to take morning classes.
Location:
Minnesota Ballet School Studios
14675 Martin Drive, Ste 400 Eden Prairie, MN 55344
When:
Saturday August 10, 11:30am-12:30pm
Who:
The program is open to dedicated ballet students ages 12-18. Applicants are divided into two groups based on age and experience:
- Group 1: Ages 12-14 – Requires a minimum of 2 years of ballet training and 1 year of pointe work.
- Group 2: Ages 15-18 – Requires a minimum of 3 years of ballet training and 2 years of pointe work.
*Each dancer will be considered individually based on their experience and skill level.
Dress code:
Women: black leotard, pink tights, pink shoes, bring pointe shoes
Men: black tights, white t-shirt, white socks, and white or black ballet shoes
Video Audition
Can’t attend in person? Video submissions are acceptable. Alternatively, you can schedule an audition by contacting us at minnesotaballetschool@gmail.com
Video Submission Requirements:
- Barre and Center Exercises: Include plié, battement tendu, adagio, pirouettes, petit, medium, and grand allegro, tours en l'air for men, and pointe work for women. A classical ballet variation on pointe is optional.
- Duration: The video should be no longer than five minutes.
- Photos: Include a photo in first arabesque or another ballet pose, and a headshot.
Youth Recreational Classes
Conditioning, Strength and Stretch (ages 8+)
This class is designed to build strength as well as extensions, endurance and balance. Special exercises will focus on muscle stretching and flexing, enhancing pirouettes, increasing movement speed, jumps with heights and timing escalating. The goal of this class is to make your children better dancers.
• June-Wednesday 6:30-7:00pm
• July-Wednesday 12:00-12:30pm
• August-Wednesday 12:00-12:30pm
Contemporary (ages 8+)
Contemporary ballet utilizes elements and techniques from other styles of ballet—classical, romantic, and neoclassical—and combines them with improvisation and freer movements to create a style that’s expressive and nontraditional. In this class, students will focus on learning proper dance techniques such as isolations of the body, improving performance quality, and developing complex rhythms and patterns.
• July-Wednesday 12:30-1:30pm
YAGP Classical Competition Prep Workshop with Meelis Pakri
August 11–14, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Ages 9–18+ | Open to all
Refine your classical technique and artistry in this focused intensive led by Milees Pakri—international ballet master, YAGP judge, and faculty at The Harid Conservatory. A specialist in the Vaganova method, Milees is known for elevating young dancers with clarity, precision, and musicality.
This four-day program includes daily classical technique, pointe, and detailed coaching in classical variations. Whether your dancer plans to compete this season or is seeking stronger technique and performance experience, this workshop provides a powerful foundation.
Open to all advanced and pre-professional dancers. Strongly recommended for those preparing classical solos for YAGP and similar competitions.
Cost: $504
Space is limited to ensure a personalized experience.
All workshop registrations are final. Due to limited space and planning requirements, Minnesota Ballet School operates under a no-refund policy.
YAGP Contemporary Competition Prep Workshop with Oliver Halkowich
August 4–7, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Ages 9–18+ | Open to all
Join Oliver Halkowich—former Soloist with Houston Ballet and current Choreographer and Trainee Program Director at New Orleans Ballet Theatre—for a dynamic four-day contemporary workshop. Dancers will explore contemporary ballet vocabulary, musicality, improvisation, and performance quality in a professional yet encouraging environment.
Whether preparing for the upcoming competition season or seeking to expand expressive abilities, this intensive will help dancers build strength, clarity, and confidence.
Open to all advanced and pre-professional dancers. Ideal for YAGP and other contemporary competition prep.
Cost: $504
Space is limited to ensure a personalized experience.
All workshop registrations are final. Due to limited space and planning requirements, Minnesota Ballet School operates under a no-refund policy.
Meelis Pakri Former principal dancer with the Estonian National Ballet and Colorado Ballet, currently faculty member at The Harid Conservatory, and YAGP judge.
Meelis Pakri, born in Tallinn, Estonia, is a distinguished ballet master and educator with a career spanning over three decades. He received his early training at the Tallinn State Ballet School and later graduated from the prestigious Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Between 1986 and 2001, Pakri excelled as a principal dancer with the Estonian National Ballet and Colorado Ballet. During this period, he also performed as a guest artist with renowned companies, including the Macedonian National Theatre Ballet in Skopje, the Martha Graham Dance Company, and at the International Ballet Festival in Havana, Cuba. His repertoire encompassed lead roles in major classical ballets, as well as neoclassical and modern works by choreographers such as George Balanchine and Martha Graham.
At the age of 22, Pakri began his teaching career, instructing men's technique and partnering classes at the Tallinn State Ballet School. Following his retirement from the stage, he served as a ballet master for Colorado Ballet and Houston Ballet. He also held a teaching position at The Royal Ballet Upper School in London, England. His expertise has been sought after globally, leading to guest teaching engagements in Japan, Denmark, Italy, England, and the United States. Additionally, he has been a guest teacher for the Estonian National Ballet and The Royal Ballet Company in London.
Pakri's contributions to ballet extend to his roles as a juror for prestigious competitions, including the Japan Grand Prix and the Youth America Grand Prix. His students have achieved significant success, winning numerous awards at the Youth America Grand Prix. Currently, he is a full-time member of the dance faculty at The Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida, where he continues to impart his extensive knowledge and passion for ballet to the next generation of dancers.
Oliver Halkowich Former Soloist Dancer at Houston Ballet, now Choreographer and Trainee Program Director at New Orleans Ballet Theatre.
Oliver's journey in the world of ballet began in South Florida, where he discovered his passion for dance at a young age. At just 7 years old, he performed in Miami City Ballet's The Nutcracker, an experience that sparked his lifelong love for ballet. This passion led him to pursue formal training at the renowned San Francisco Ballet School at the age of 14.
After completing his training on the West Coast, Oliver began his professional career with Boston Ballet in 2001. There, he honed his skills and immersed himself in the city's vibrant arts scene. However, a pivotal moment in his artistic journey came with his move to Texas, where he joined the esteemed Houston Ballet in 2002.
Over the course of nearly two decades with Houston Ballet, Oliver’s career flourished. Rising to the rank of First Soloist in 2018, his performances were celebrated for their versatility, artistry, and emotional depth, earning acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
Today, Oliver serves as the Resident Choreographer for the New Orleans Ballet Theatre (NOBT), a role that allows him to channel his wealth of experience into creating innovative works. Drawing from his time with Houston Ballet and the cultural richness of New Orleans, Oliver continues to redefine dance and storytelling through his choreography.
In May 2023, he premiered an original production of Romeo + Juliet for NOBT, followed by the debut of a new production of Dracula in May 2024. These full-length ballets showcased his ability to merge classical tradition with modern narrative, solidifying his reputation as a visionary in contemporary ballet choreography.
Beyond the stage, Oliver also serves as the Trainee Program Director at NOBT, mentoring and shaping the next generation of ballet dancers. His commitment to nurturing young talent reflects his dedication to the art form and its future.
With each new project, Oliver reaffirms his status as a dynamic and influential force in ballet. His creativity, passion, and vision continue to inspire both dancers and audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the world of dance. As he explores new horizons and pushes artistic boundaries, Oliver's contributions to ballet remain vibrant, innovative, and profoundly impactful.
Pre-Professional Day Program Audition
If you are interested in transitioning from a student career to a professional ballet career, applying for our Day Program can be a valuable next step. This intensive program is designed for dancers ages 12+ seeking elite training, performance opportunities, and professional preparation.
Audition Options:
- In-Person Audition: August 31, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Video Submission: Accepted until September 6
Take the next step toward your future in ballet with personalized guidance and Vaganova-based excellence at Minnesota Ballet School.
2025–2026 Competition Team Workshop & Audition
August 18–20, 2025
Minnesota Ballet School | Eden Prairie, MN
Join us this August for our annual Competition Team Workshop & Audition, designed to prepare and evaluate dancers interested in joining the Minnesota Ballet School Competition Team for the 2025–2026 season.
For Ages 5–8: Pre-Competition Team
Two-Day Workshop + Evaluation
August 18–19 | 3:00–4:00 PM
This age-appropriate workshop introduces young dancers to the world of ballet competitions through group movement, musicality, and performance skills. On the second day, dancers will be evaluated for participation in our Pre-Competition Team. No prior experience is required.
For Ages 9–18+: Junior & Senior Teams
Two-Day Workshop + Audition
August 18–19 | 2:00–4:00 PM
Audition Day: August 20 | 2:00–3:00 PM
Dancers will train in classical ballet and contemporary technique to build performance readiness and versatility. The final day includes a formal audition to determine placement for solos, group routines, and team eligibility for major competitions such as YAGP, UBC, and ADC IBC.
Open to all dancers Ballet Level 2 and above. No previous competition experience required.
Who Can Attend
- Dancers ages 5–18+
- Open to all dancers—MBS and non-MBS students
- No prior competition experience needed
Secure your spot for the 2025–2026 Competition Team!
Ballet Art and Craft Camp
Ballet Art and Craft camps are consistently a favorite among kids, whether they are artistically inclined or not. Children will enjoy learning dances from the MBS repertoire and engaging in various creative projects, such as crafting magic wands, wings, crowns, or little tutus. These crafted items will then be incorporated into the dances they learn, adding an extra element of fun and creativity to their experience.
Barbie Ballet Dreams Camp: A Magical Dance Adventure! • June 16-19
Barbie Ballet Dreams Camp
Enter a world of sparkle, imagination, and graceful movement at Barbie Ballet Dreams Camp! Inspired by Barbie and the 12 Dancing Princesses and other magical Barbie stories, this creative ballet camp invites young dancers to explore the art of dance through fantasy and play.
Each day includes themed ballet classes, prop-making, dress-up play, storytelling, and creative crafts—all centered around Barbie’s enchanting adventures. Campers will build confidence, coordination, and joy through movement, while bringing fairytales to life.
The week concludes with a delightful in-studio performance, where dancers will share their magical journey with family and friends.
Perfect for aspiring ballerinas ages 4–7, this half-day or full-day camp blends classical ballet training with the fun and wonder of childhood imagination.
Schedule & Pricing Options
Choose the schedule that works best for your dancer:
- Morning Only (Half Day): 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM — $255
- Afternoon Only (Half Day): 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM — $255
- Full Day: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM — $500
Recommendation: Our full-day option offers the best value and provides a more immersive experience for children who love Barbie, ballet, and storytelling. However, both half-day options are thoughtfully designed to offer rich, engaging activities in a shorter timeframe.
Daily Schedule
Morning Session | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
• 9:30–9:45 – Drop-Off & Free Play
• 9:45–10:00 – Gymnastics Warm-Up
• 10:00–10:30 – Ballet Class (Barbie-Inspired Themes)
• 10:30–10:45 – Snack Break
• 10:45–11:15 – Barbie Crafts (Props, Costumes, Crowns)
• 11:15–11:30 – Repertoire Practice (Mini Performance Prep)
• 11:30–11:45 – Storytime & Movement Games
• 11:45–12:00 – Pick-Up
Lunch Break | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
(For full-day campers only. Please pack a nut-free lunch and water bottle.)
Afternoon Session | 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
• 12:30–12:45 – Arrival & Quiet Play
• 12:45–1:15 – Stretch, Skip & Ballet Poses Review
• 1:15–1:30 – Repertoire Practice
• 1:30–1:45 – Snack Time
• 1:45–2:15 – Barbie Coloring, Dress-Up & Imaginative Play
• 2:15–2:45 – Barbie Movie Time (with calm activities)
• 2:45–3:00 – Pick-Up & Mini Reward Time
DRESS CODE
Girls: pink tights, pink leotard, pink shoes.
Boys: white T-shirt, black tights, white socks, and white or black ballet shoes.
Moana Ballet Camp • July 7-10
Set sail on a magical adventure with our Moana Ballet Camp! Perfect for young dancers, this fun-filled camp combines the beauty of ballet with creative arts and crafts inspired by Moana's exciting journey.
- Ballet Classes: Explore graceful movements and dances influenced by island rhythms and oceanic themes.
- Creative Arts & Crafts: Make seashell necklaces, tropical artwork, and more fun projects.
- Storytime & Music: Experience Moana’s story through engaging storytelling and memorable songs.
This camp is designed to nurture creativity, coordination, and confidence in a supportive and fun environment. No prior dance experience is needed!
Mini performance for parents on the last day.
Mon–Thu • 10:00–12:00 pm (ages 4-7)
Tuition: $170
DRESS CODE
Girls: pink tights, pink leotard, pink shoes.
Boys: white T-shirt, black tights, white socks, and white or black ballet shoes.
The Nutcracker Prep Camp: Unveiling the Magic! • August 18-21
Welcome to the Nutcracker Ballet Prep Camp, where joyful creative motion is fused with high-quality dance instruction led by engaging professional teachers!
This camp provides thorough preparation for the Nutcracker auditions, ensuring your child is ready to shine. Dancers will learn the enchanting Nutcracker story, master dances from the classical ballet performed by the talented artists of Minnesota Ballet Theatre, and immerse themselves in arts and crafts activities, creating fun and educational art projects inspired by the ballet "Nutcracker."
The camp concludes with a mini-performance for parents on the last day, showcasing the young dancers' newfound skills and creativity. It's a magical journey into the world of ballet and artistic expression!
Mon–Thu • 10:00–1:00 am (ages 4-7)
Tuition: $255
DRESS CODE
Girls: pink tights, pink leotard, pink shoes.
Boys: white T-shirt, black tights, white socks, and white or black ballet shoes.
Holiday Dance Week & Open House
Inspired by The Nutcracker, our Holiday Dance Week is the perfect opportunity for children ages 3–18 to experience the joy of dance, explore new styles, and meet our talented teachers in a fun and welcoming environment.
Come try a FREE holiday dance class any day during Dec 15–18 and join our Open House on Dec 20, where families can tour the studio, meet our instructors, watch mini-class demonstrations, and learn about our programs — all in one exciting week! Classes are available in Ballet and Contemporary, making it a wonderful way for your child to discover their passion for dance while enjoying a taste of our high-quality programs — all with no commitment required.
Holiday Dance Week is perfect for new dancers and families interested in joining Minnesota Ballet School. Every student who participates will receive a holiday gift and a promo code for Spring registration.
Holiday Week Specials
- FREE Class
Try a Ballet or Contemporary class on any day (Dec 15–20). A wonderful way to discover your child’s passion for dance — commitment-free!
- FREE Holiday Gift
Every student who attends a class will receive a festive holiday surprise.
- No Registration Fee for Spring Session
Enroll for our Spring session during Holiday Week and your $40 registration fee is waived!
Use promo code: HOLIDAY25.
December 15–20 at Minnesota Ballet School
Come try a FREE holiday dance class and join our Open House — all in one week!
Perfect for new dancers ages 3–18 and families interested in joining Minnesota Ballet School.
Cozy Nutcracker PJ Party
Calling all MBS dancers ages 8–18 (Levels 1–6)!
Celebrate the holiday season with our Cozy Nutcracker PJ Party — a fun, festive evening filled with games, dancing, pizza, and Nutcracker magic.
Dancers are invited to wear pajamas or holiday/Nutcracker-themed outfits and enjoy a night of movement, laughter, and holiday cheer with friends.
When: Thursday, December 18, 7:15–8:30 PM
Where: Minnesota Ballet School
Cost: $20 per student
Pizza Options: Cheese or Pepperoni
This special event is the perfect way to celebrate Nutcracker season, connect with fellow dancers, and kick off the holidays in style!
About Misha
Misha Tchoupakov — UNCSA Professor, YAGP Finals Rehearsal Director, Judge, Master Teacher, and International Guest Instructor
Originally from Moscow, Russia, Misha Tchoupakov has had a distinguished career with world-renowned companies including the Bolshoi Ballet, Colorado Ballet, Sarasota Ballet, Los Angeles Classical Ballet, Vienna State Opera Ballet, and San Francisco Opera Ballet. He holds an M.F.A. in Dance Pedagogy and Choreography from the Moscow State Institute of Choreography.
Misha is currently a Professor at the University of North Carolina School of Dance and has taught at prestigious institutions worldwide, including the Royal Ballet School and the University of Utah Department of Ballet.
As Rehearsal Director for YAGP in New York, he remains a sought-after master teacher and guest instructor, sharing his expertise with dancers and educators globally.
Master Class/Audition 2026
Auditions/Master Class with Misha Tchoupakov
Join us for an extraordinary opportunity to train with internationally renowned ballet master Misha Tchoupakov, UNCSA Professor, and YAGP Finals Rehearsal Director and Judge.
This special weekend features a Master Class for dancers ages 9–18+, designed to inspire, challenge, and provide professional feedback. The Master Class also serves as the audition for MBS Summer Intensive 2026. Dancers may attend the Master Class without private lessons, and those who wish to audition for UNCSA School of Dance programs may do so during the same class.
Private Lessons:
- Private lessons are available for dancers who wish to receive one-on-one instruction with Misha.
- Master Class attendance is required to take a private lesson.
- Private lessons require separate registration and are limited in availability.
Details for Ages 9–12:
Dancers ages 9–12 may not spend the full 1.5 hours with Misha. After the barre portion, some students will continue their class or audition in another studio under the expert instruction of Kirill Bak-Stepanoff or Svetlana Bak-Gavrilova, ensuring personalized attention and a smooth experience for all.
Event Schedule — Sunday, January 25:
- 11:30 AM — Registration
- 12:00–1:30 PM — Master Class / Summer Intensive Audition (ages 9–12)
- 12:00–2:00 PM — Master Class / Summer Intensive Audition (ages 13–18+)
Opportunities:
- Train with a world-class BALLET MASTER
- Receive professional feedback from a YAGP Judge
- Audition for MBS Summer Intensive 2026
- Optional private lessons with Misha (Master Class required)
- Optional audition for UNCSA School of Dance — High School, College, and Summer Dance 2026 programs
This is a rare, exclusive opportunity, as Misha is traveling specially for this weekend. Spots are limited — register now to secure your place.
JUNE 1
Video Submissions Due
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
Register early and save!
Receive $250 off your Summer Intensive registration when you attend the Audition/Master Class and complete your registration
by February 1. Promocode: SUMMER250 (This promotion cannot be combined with the 50% tuition discount for boys.)
CAMP 1: JUNE 15-JUNE 26
CAMP 2: JULY 6-JULY 17
- Auditions are open to all male and female students ages 9+
- Group 1: age 9-12 (one year ballet experience required)
- Group 2: age 13+ (two years pointe experience required)
- All fees are non-refundable regardless of circumstances
Dress:
Ladies- Pink tights, solid colored leotard, flat and pointe shoes*
Men- Tights and tight fitting T-shirt
2024 FEATURED GUEST ARTISTS
ELENA OLSHIN (Sugar Plam Fairy)
Elena Olshin, 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.
JONATHAN ROBBINS (Sugar Plam Cavalier)
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)
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)
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)
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.
2026–27 Enrollment Is Open
Classes for ages 18 months through adult.
Discover the right ballet program for you or your child.