Montana Ballet Company CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

Montana Ballet Company CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

DANCE IMAGES COURTESY OF LAUREN BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Montana Ballet Company (MBC) is a nonprofit organization that has served the Gallatin Valley and beyond for 40 years. MBC’s vision and mission are to enrich and inspire the minds and spirits of our community of dancers and audience members alike through high-caliber dance performances, fine-quality training and meaningful access to the arts.

MBC’s performing company enchants audiences with its exceptional productions including full-length classics, contemporary ballet and modern dance that appeal to both the dance enthusiast and the first-time theatergoer. MBC’s Academy trains more than 400 students annually in the art and discipline of classical ballet with a focus on dancer health and wellness, mind, body and spirit. MBC’s Educational and Community Engagement programs introduce children, families and seniors to the beauty and magic of the art form of dance.

MBC’s 40th Anniversary Nutcracker

With the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra & Guests from New York City Ballet

DECEMBER 2, 2023 AT 2 P.M. & 7 P.M. DECEMBER 3, 2023 AT 12 P.M. & 4 P.M.

Celebrating 40 years in Bozeman, the one and only original MBC’s Nutcracker returns to the Willson Auditorium on December 2 and 3.

In tradition, MBC is thrilled to welcome exceptional guest artists to its cast of more than 100 community dancers. This year from the renowned New York City Ballet, Indiana Woodward and Sebastián Villarini-Vélez will perform both the Snow and Sugar Plum pas de deux. Also joining the cast is Bozeman favorite Soren Kisiel in the role of Drosselmeyer. The part of Clara will be danced by MBC Company Dancers Dulcinéa Johnston and Ruby Weinberg.

MBC will once again collaborate with the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra playing Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Maestro Lee Mills, an internationally recognized conductor and five-time winner of the Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award, will conduct.

MBC is also delighted to partner with the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter to promote animal adoptions. HOV’s mission is to compassionately shelter the lost and surrendered pets of Gallatin and Madison Valleys, and to enhance the lives of people and companion animals through pet adoption and education. As a special treat, a four-legged furry friend will join the cast on stage during MBC’s Nutcracker performances!

First performed in the lobby of First Security Bank in 1983, MBC’s Nutcracker is held the first weekend in December and has become synonymous with the Bozeman Christmas Stroll. This production is a cherished holiday tradition for countless performers and their families and friends, as well as the thousands of audience members who share in the experience year after year. MBC’s Nutcracker is a treat for the entire family.

All performances sold out in 2021 and 2022. Purchase tickets early to join the celebration by contacting the Montana Ballet Company at 406-582-8702 or online at www.montanaballet.org. All seating is reserved.

Ticket prices range from $28 to $78.

Tea with Clara Returns!

DECEMBER 9, 2023

AT 11 A.M. AND 2 P.M.

Tea with Clara has been a longtime favorite Bozeman event celebrating the holiday season. After a four-year hiatus, the Tea is back and better than years past. Returning to the elegant Baxter Ballroom, this special affair is a must for families and children and the perfect opportunity to get dressed up and create lifetime memories in a magical setting.

Little boys and girls and their families will don their best and join some of their favorite Nutcracker cast members as guests for high tea. Café M will provide the tea, which will be accompanied by an assortment of fine treats and small bites.

Perfect for first-time attendees and those Nutcracker enthusiasts looking for more, guests will have the special opportunity to view live performance excerpts, meet Clara and other characters from The Nutcracker, take keepsake photos, join Clara on the stage, peruse the unique Tea with Clara Nutcracker boutique and more.

Tea with Clara is a sellout event, with limited seating. Two Teas will be offered; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person. For reservations, visit www.montanaballet.org or call Montana Ballet Company at 406-582-8702.

Inaugural Nutcracker Ball

DECEMBER 9, 2023 AT 7 P.M.

Celebrate the arts and support Montana Ballet Company by dressing in your finest black-tie attire and attending the Inaugural Nutcracker Ball at the Baxter Ballroom on Saturday, December 9 at 7 p.m.

This exclusive event will include live performances by MBC and select Bozeman Symphony Orchestra musicians, along with fine drink and dining, all in a beautifully festive atmosphere.

This formal event will celebrate MBC’s 40 years as a leader in the performing arts and arts education, and support MBC’s philanthropic mission with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the BSO.

MBC looks forward to sharing a night of gratitude with you, celebrating beauty and wonder in the world. Limited tickets are allinclusive and priced at $150 per person. Reserve at montanaballet.org