Photo Gallery: Pacific Northwest Ballet

On Point(e)

Behind the scenes with Pacific Northwest Ballet

photography by Bill Purcell

A LOT GOES INTO preparing for the Pacific Northwest Ballet’s monthlong performance of "The Nutcracker." The company and its many behind-the-scenes employees have been hard at work, perfecting dances, preparing costumes, and making sure everything is just so before the dancers step out from behind the curtain to sold-out crowds. Every detail is important, from the littlest mouse’s whiskers to Clara’s nightgown. The Sugarplum Fairy would be proud.

Pacific Northwest Ballet professional division students rehearse for the ballet’s production of "The Nutcracker."

Bill Purcell

Pacific Northwest Ballet professional division students rehearse for the ballet’s production of "The Nutcracker."

Bill Purcell

A professional division student prepares for rehearsals.

Bill Purcell

Professional division students go through steps for "The Nutcracker."

Bill Purcell

Company pianist Elisabeth Ellis plays during "Nutcracker" rehearsals.

Bill Purcell

Professional division students practice sauté jumps.

Bill Purcell

Each dancer receives a supply of pointe shoes that are stored in personal lockers for easy, unlimited access.

Bill Purcell

Students rehearse for "The Nutcracker."

Bill Purcell

Ballet master Otto Neubert leads a rehearsal.

Bill Purcell

Ballet students wait their turn for rehearsal.

Bill Purcell

Stitcher Lily Deneva prepares materials in Pacific Northwest Ballet’s costume shop.

Bill Purcell

Costume technician Rob Newton makes adjustments to a student’s soldier costume.

Bill Purcell

Milliner Terry Frank unboxes costumes for "The Nutcracker" at the costume shop.

Bill Purcell

Ballet students are fitted for their soldier uniforms for the upcoming performance.

Bill Purcell