NASHVILLE BALLET UNVEILS DYNAMIC 2026-27 SEASON WHERE ROMANCE, ARTISTRY AND INNOVATION TAKE CENTER STAGE

From Timeless Classics Like Giselle, Cinderella and Nashville’s Nutcracker to Daring New Works and World Premieres, the Season is Designed to Inspire and Surprise

Nashville Ballet unveiled its 2026–27 season, Movement Taking Form, an expansive lineup of captivating performances that highlights the company’s evolution through classical favorites, contemporary premieres and bold storytelling, led by Artistic Director and CEO Nick Mullikin.


Marking a defining chapter for the company, the season brings this vision to life through the following productions - Live in Studio A, Giselle, Día de los Muertos, Nashville’s Nutcracker, Cinderella and Attitude, all dynamic collections of work where discipline becomes artistry and ideas ignite into movement.


“This season begins with a sense of possibility,” said Nick Mullikin, Nashville Ballet’s Artistic Director & CEO. “Movement Taking Form reflects where Nashville Ballet is as a company and where we are going. It is about the point when ideas stop living only in conversation and begin to take shape on stage through discipline, artistry, and shared purpose. I chose works that highlight the versatility of our artists and reflect the full range of what ballet can be. This season honors the classical foundation of the art form while making space for new voices, bold creation, and the kind of momentum that helps define a company’s future."


The season opens with Live in Studio A (Sept. 11–20, 2026) at The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet, offering an intimate, up-close experience. Anchored by George Balanchine’s vibrant Allegro Brillante, set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the program pairs classical precision with four new works by the company’s artistic team and dancers, including a selection inspired by Dorian Gray.


In October, Mullikin debuts a reimagined full-length Giselle (Oct. 2–4, 2026) at TPAC’s Polk Theater, performed live with music by The Nashville Symphony. This return to the main stage marks the ballet’s first local staging in more than a decade. Rooted in folklore, the story of love and betrayal unfolds in a shadowy world of vengeful Wilis, with refreshed choreography and a darker emotional lens.


Later that month, Día de los Muertos (Oct. 28–Nov. 1, 2026), choreographed by Maria A. Konrad, returns to The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet following a sold-out run in 2024. Inspired by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, the work blends Mexican tradition with contemporary dance in a vivid, celebratory exploration of life, memory and connection.


The holiday season brings back Paul Vasterling’s Nashville’s Nutcracker (Nov. 27–Dec. 27, 2026) at TPAC’s Jackson Hall. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, performed live by The Nashville Symphony, this Emmy Award-winning production reimagines the classic tale against the backdrop of the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, following Clara’s magical journey through a distinctly Nashville lens.


In February, Cinderella (Feb. 26–28, 2027) returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall with choreography by Paul Vasterling and music by Sergei Prokofiev, performed live by The Nashville Symphony. This elegant production brings the beloved fairy tale to life through sweeping movement and theatrical storytelling centered on transformation, hope and resilience.


The season concludes with the Attitude (May 7–9, 2027) at TPAC’s Polk Theater, a showcase of contemporary ballet. Coming off three standing ovation performances in 2025, the program features the return of Mullikin’s deeply personal Erase the Night alongside a world premiere by Marika Brussel and additional works, including selections such as Ulysses Dove’s Red Angels, offering a bold and thought-provoking finale.


Together, the 2026–27 season reflects Nashville Ballet’s commitment to honoring tradition while embracing innovation, a season where movement takes shape in new and compelling ways.


2026–27 Season Schedule:
Live in Studio A — Sept. 11–20, 2026 | The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet

Giselle — Oct. 2–4, 2026 | TPAC Polk Theater

Día de los Muertos — Oct. 28 – Nov. 1, 2026 | The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet

Nashville’s Nutcracker — Nov. 27 – Dec. 27, 2026 | TPAC Jackson Hall

Cinderella — Feb. 26–28, 2027 | TPAC Jackson Hall

Attitude — May 7–9, 2027 | TPAC Polk Theater

Tickets and Season Packages:


Nashville Ballet offers various season ticket packages designed for date nights or the entire family. Season tickets are on sale now, with flexible packages designed for newcomers and longtime patrons alike.


• Complete Season Package — See all six productions starting at $211 for adults and $156 for children under 12, with savings up to 30%, priority seating and exclusive perks.

• Relevé Package — A new premium experience combining season tickets with Relevé Society membership, including receptions with artists and special events starting at just $311. 

• Symphony Package — Experience three classical ballets Giselle, Nashville’s Nutcracker and Cinderella performed live with The Nashville Symphony, starting at $126.50.

• Family Package — Curated to create lasting memories for audiences of all ages, this package includes Día de los Muertos, Nashville’s Nutcracker and Cinderella, with tickets starting as low as $114.50 for adults and $79 for children.

• Create Your Own Package — Choose three or four performances and save up to 25% on adult tickets and 50% on children under 12 years of age. 
  

Get tickets at www.NashvilleBallet.com or by calling 615-297-2966 ext. 710.

THE FACTORY AT FRANKLIN PRESENTS AN EVENING WITH NASHVILLE BALLET 2 THIS JUNE

Community-Focused Performances Bring Rising Artists and New Works to Middle Tennessee Stage

The Factory at Franklin will present An Evening with Nashville Ballet 2 at Turner Theatre, June 5 - 7, bringing Nashville Ballet’s second company to Williamson County for a weekend of performances that expand access to the arts and connect directly with the community.

The engagement features Nashville Ballet’s Second Company, NB2, rising professional dancers, in a dynamic mixed repertoire program blending classical, contemporary and new works. Together, Nashville Ballet and NB2 provide more than 55,000 arts experiences annually through performances and community engagement programming.

“The Factory at Franklin has always been a place where community and culture come together, and welcoming Nashville Ballet to our stage is a natural fit,” said Tami Pryce, Director of Events, The Factory at Franklin. “We are proud to bring world-class performances to the heart of Middle Tennessee and invite guests to make a full evening of it.

Nashville Ballet and The Factory at Franklin share a commitment to bringing performance art directly to the community, creating more accessible and inclusive opportunities for audiences to experience live performance. By presenting dance in a familiar, community-centered setting, the partnership invites both longtime patrons and new audiences to connect with the art form in a meaningful and approachable way.

“We believe ballet should meet people where they are,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet. “Performing in venues like The Factory at Franklin allows us to connect with the community in a more personal way to share our art. Our goal is to expand access, build community and make dance part of everyday life across Middle Tennessee.”

The program features six distinct works, each highlighting a different facet of NB2’s versatility and artistry.

Bruce Marks’ Lark Ascending, staged by Kate Linsley, offers a deeply moving meditation on beauty, stillness and transcendence. Set to its soaring musical score, the work has been performed by leading companies including Boston Ballet, English National Ballet and San Francisco Ballet. Linsley, originally chosen by Marks early in her career to perform the principal role, brings a sense of legacy and continuity to this presentation, offering audiences a rare moment of emotional depth and quiet reflection.

In Dear Charlie, renowned choreographer Maria A. Konrad creates a heartfelt tribute to Charlie Chaplin, blending humor, heartbreak and humanity. Inspired by the world of silent film, the ballet moves seamlessly between playful theatricality and poignant intimacy. Originally premiered with Philadelphia Ballet, the work captures the small, deeply human moments that resonate long after the performance ends.

Sarah Tallman’s A Tale of Two Worlds brings wit and imagination to the stage, blurring the line between reality and fantasy. Set to an eclectic score that ranges from pop to French pop and moody blues, the work has become a repertoire favorite in Nashville. Tallman’s sharp storytelling and sense of humor shine throughout, creating a piece full of charm, personality and unexpected turns.

Travis Bradley’s Masquerade reimagines the elegance and drama of the Masquerade Waltz through a neoclassical lens. Built on a strong classical foundation, the piece is both musical and expressive, drawing audiences into a world defined by momentum, mood and clarity of movement. Bradley’s choreography is known for its accessibility and energy, making it a consistent audience favorite.

The program also features a world premiere by Koresh Dance Company’s Assistant Artistic Director, Melissa Rector. Known for her bold contemporary perspective, shaped by her work with Koresh Dance Company and Israeli-influenced movement, Rector brings a distinct artistic voice to the stage. Her new piece is anticipated to be direct, powerful and deeply human, highlighting an athletic physicality and emotional immediacy that propels dancers into new territory.

Rounding out the evening is a new vignette by Artistic Director and CEO Nick Mullikin, reflecting Nashville Ballet’s artistic vision and ongoing commitment to developing emerging talent. The work provides NB2 dancers with a direct connection to the creative language shaping the company today, bridging the gap between training and professional performance.

Performances are scheduled for Friday, June 5 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, June 7 at 2 p.m.  

Tickets are on sale now for $45 each. You can also purchase a “Factory 4 Pack” for $125 using promo code FACTORY4 (not case sensitive) at www.factoryatfranklin.com/ballet.

ERIC PASLAY TO HEADLINE NASHVILLE BALLET’S 37TH ANNUAL BALLET BALL THIS SATURDAY AT SCHERMERHORN SYMPHONY CENTER

GRAMMY-nominated country artist Eric Paslay will headline the 37th Annual Ballet Ball this Saturday, March 7 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. 

Jamey Johnson will not perform as previously announced due to unforeseen circumstances.

Paslay, known for his chart-topping hits and energetic live performances, will now lead the evening’s entertainment as part of the annual gala celebrating Nashville Ballet’s 40th Season.

Platinum-selling and GRAMMY-nominated Eric Paslay has built a reputation as one of Nashville’s most reliable hitmakers and live performers. A true artist’s artist, USA Today calls Paslay “flat out-brilliant” and American Songwriter names him an influencer of country music. Paslay has celebrated five No.1 hits, with four of those ranked among the Top 100 Songs of the Decade by Country Aircheck, including the #1 spot on that chart with “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” as recorded by Jake Owen.

The Temple, Texas native has earned numerous songwriter award nominations including GRAMMY’s Best Country Song, ACM’s Song of the Year twice and the CMA Song of The Year, as well as an artist GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “The Driver” - a collaboration with friends Charles Kelley and Dierks Bentley. Paslay continues to see success as a songwriter, having co-penned Keith Urban’s 2022 hit “Wild Hearts.” Hislatest independent project, Perfect Stranger, a 6 song EP, is available now.

Tickets for the Ballet Ball Late Party (8 pm - 12 pm) are still available for purchase at NashvilleBallet.com/late-party. 

SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET OPENS REGISTRATION FOR 2026 SUMMER CAMPS

Fabulously Creative Camps Combine Dance Training with Fun, Imaginative Activities for Kids

 School of Nashville Ballet has announced its 2026 Summer Camp schedule, with registration now open.  The school will offer half-day summer camps for young dancers, along with additional summer programming that includes community classes and Junior Intensives. The camps are designed to introduce children to dance through age-appropriate instruction focused on movement, creativity and foundational technique.  

Camp activities include dance instruction, basic choreography, creative art projects and structured active play. Each session concludes with a short, in-studio performance for family and friends at The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet.  

“Early exposure to ballet helps develop discipline, creativity and an appreciation for the arts,” said Jennifer Kulev, Director, School of Nashville Ballet. “These programs provide a welcoming introduction to ballet while encouraging confidence and self-expression.”

School of Nashville Ballet Summer Camp Schedule:

Magical Creatures Camp

Ages 4-6 yrs 

June 1-5 | 9 AM - 12 PM

July 6-10 | 9 AM - 12 PM 

Be transported to a fantasy land full of magic where imaginations run wild with mythical creatures such as fairies, unicorns, mermaids, dragons and wizards. 

Once Upon a Time Story Ballet Camp

Ages 7-9 yrs 

June 1-5 | 1 PM - 4 PM

July 6-10 | 1 PM - 4 PM 

Dancers will dive into the ballet world's most famous stories to learn about their plots, characters, music and choreography.  Ballets include The Nutcracker and other surprising selections to be revealed with the unveiling of our 2026-27 season.

Animal Adventure Camp

Ages 3-5 yrs

June 8-12 | 9 AM - 12 PM

June 22-26 | 9 AM - 12 PM 

Explore the Animal Kingdom while deepening creativity and an understanding of movement by studying the characteristics of various animal species. 

Broadway Stars Camp

Ages 6-9 yrs

June 8-12 | 1 PM - 4 PM

Calling all Tappers: The Great White Way beckons...in this Tap and Musical Theatre focused camp, dancers will study technique through their explorations of kid friendly musicals including Mary Poppins, Newsies, The Music Man and many more.

Royal Celebration Camp 

Ages 4-6 yrs 

June 15–19 | 9 AM - 12 PM

June 22–26 | 1 PM - 4 PM

From Princess Aurora to the Mouse King, this camp celebrates ballet's most majestic characters. Young dancers will be immersed in the stories and music of beloved ballets where each student can feel like royalty.

Cartoon Classics Camp

Ages 4-6 yrs 

June 15–19 | 1 PM - 4 PM

July 13–17 | 9 AM - 12 PM

Dancers will spring into the world of animation, drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved stories and cartoon characters in film and television. Whether it's Disney or Looney Tunes, the Peanuts Gang or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this camp offers something for everyone. 

Dance Through the Eras Camp

Ages 7-9 yrs 

July 13–17 | 1 PM - 4 PM

Time moves swiftly, and the art of dance evolves from decade to decade. Dancers will delve into the history of social dancing throughout the last century through a variety of dance styles accompanied by popular music.  From The Charleston to the Cabbage Patch, from Country Line dancing to Hip Hop on TikTok, campers will discover the cultural impact dance has made on society from the past to the present.

*Students must meet age requirements by June 1, 2026.  No exceptions.

To enroll or for more information about the 2026 Summer Camps, please visit www.nashvilleballet.com/summer-camps.

REGISTRATION DISCOUNT INFORMATION:  Receive $50 off when you enroll in a second camp. To take advantage of this discount, please call 615-297-2966 x 910 or email school@nashvilleballet.com BEFORE registering.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  This option is not available through online checkout.

JAMEY JOHNSON TO HEADLINE NASHVILLE BALLET’S 37TH ANNUAL BALLET BALL

Swan Lake-Inspired Black Tie Gala Returns March 7 to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Nashville Ballet is thrilled to announce 10-time GRAMMY nominee and Grand Ole Opry member Jamey Johnson will headline the entertainment for the 37th Annual Ballet Ball on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.  Inspired by the timeless beauty of Swan Lake, the highly-anticipated gala will blend classical elegance with contemporary celebration in honor of the Nashville Ballet’s milestone 40th Season. Johnson’s appearance will mark his second appearance at the annual Ballet Ball as he was part of a Johnny Cash tribute lineup in 2018.

Called “one of the greatest country singers of our time” by The Washington Post, Johnson brings a powerful blend of classic country, Americana and mainstream rock to the 2026 Ballet Ball. Guests will enjoy an exclusive, one-night-only performance by Johnson alongside special performances by Nashville Ballet company artists.

“I am excited to perform for a world-class arts organization like Nashville Ballet and their patrons who recognize the power of storytelling through dance and music,” said Jamey Johnson. “Nashville has an incredible arts scene right here in our own backyard and I’m thrilled to be performing for a community that truly values creativity.”

Johnson released his latest album, Midnight Gasoline, in November 2024 through a collaboration between his label Big Gassed Records and Warner Music Nashville. He also recently released “Never Gonna Be” with Ronnie Dunn and “Smoke” with Riley Green. Widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation, Johnson is one of only two artists in country music history, alongside Kris Kristofferson, to win two Song of the Year awards in the same year for “Give It Away” and “In Color,” from the ACM’s and CMA.

A consummate storyteller, Johnson’s songs have been recorded by George Strait, Trace Adkins, Willie Nelson, James Otto and Joe Nichols. His recent television performances, including “Georgia on My Mind” for the CBS special Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration, “Angels Among Us” for CMT Giants: Alabama and “Beer for My Horses” with Lainey Wilson for the NBC special Toby Keith: American Icon, have been widely recognized as standout moments. The Recording Industry Association of America has honored Johnson for more than 9 million sales and streams, including the 5X platinum-certified single “In Color.”

Renowned for its sweeping romance, haunting beauty and emotional depth, Swan Lake will influence every detail of the evening, from ethereal design elements to dramatic staging to evoking the elegance, mystery and grandeur of Tchaikovsky’s beloved work. Esteemed Nashville event planner Bruce Pittmanhas been charged with bringing this vision to life.

“The Ballet Ball is where Nashville’s creative spirit, generosity and love for the arts truly come together,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO of Nashville Ballet. “As we celebrate our 40th Season with a Swan Lake inspired evening, welcoming an artist of Jamey Johnson’s caliber elevates the experience for our patrons while directly supporting the work we do onstage and throughout the community.”

Ballet Ball patrons will enjoy a gourmet dining experience by Kristen Winston Catering, paired with handcrafted cocktails and curated beverages provided by Lipman Brothers, LLC. The gala celebration will continue into the evening with the Late Party to include dancing with Bizz and Everyday People band.

Community leaders Neil Krugman, Lisa Manning and Julie Schneider are the Ball Co-Chairs, alongside Honorary Chair Barbara Turner, helping lead one of Nashville Ballet’s most important fundraising events. Additionally, Catherine Bradbury, Eli Gibbons, Sophie Scott Howard, Preston Howard and Kimberly Macdonald are the Late Party Co-Chairs for one of Nashville’s most anticipated and impactful evenings of the year.

The annual black-tie event is a cornerstone fundraiser for Nashville Ballet and a driving force behind the organization’s Community Engagement and Education Initiatives. During the 2024–25 season alone, these programs delivered more than 55,000 arts experiences to Middle Tennesseans, including free tickets to Nashville’s Nutcracker, Storytime performances at local libraries and dance education programs in 40 schools. With over 23,000 individuals reached through free performances, Nashville Ballet continues ensuring the beauty and impact of dance remain accessible to all.

Nashville Ballet is proud to acknowledge the generous support behind this special celebration honoring the company’s 40th Season, including HCA Healthcare/TriStar Health, Littler Mendelson, P.C., Pinnacle Financial Partners and The Sandra Schatten Foundation. In addition, the Late Party is sponsored by Polsinelli. Their partnership helps make this milestone evening possible.

Underwriting opportunities and reservations for the annual gala are still available. For more information, email events@nashvilleballet.com or for tickets to the Ballet Ball Late Party, visit NashvilleBallet.com/late-party.

The Ballet Ball’s Swan Lake inspired theme pays homage to one of ballet’s most iconic masterpieces as the full-length production returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall from February 27 – March 1, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at NashvilleBallet.com or by phone at 615-297-2966 ext. 710.

Photo by David McClister

SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET OPENS VIDEO AUDITIONS FOR 2026 SUMMER INTENSIVES

School of Nashville Ballet has opened video auditions for its 2026 Summer Intensives, including the highly selective Company Immersion Intensive and Contemporary Intensive, as leadership seeks top emerging talent from across the country.

Due to strong national demand, video auditions will be accepted until programs reach capacity, with a final deadline of March 20, 2026.

Dancers selected for the Company Immersion or Contemporary Intensive will be automatically considered for Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2) and select year-round training programs, positioning the intensives as a direct pipeline to professional development.

Instruction will be led by Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet; Dmitri Kulev, incoming Director of NB2 and Head of the Men’s Program; and Jennifer Kulev, School of Nashville Ballet Director, alongside additional guest artists.

“Our summer intensives are designed to mirror the realities of professional ballet,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet. “Through rigorous training and performance-based experience, we prepare dancers with the technical foundation, discipline and artistic readiness required to take the next step in their professional development.”

Company Immersion Intensive

The five-week Company Immersion Intensive (ages 17–22) is designed for advanced pre-professional dancers seeking a professional training environment.  Participants engage in daily technique classes and rehearsals while collaborating with guest choreographers and Nashville-based musicians.  The program culminates in a live performance production, offering dancers an immersive experience into company life.

2026 Summer Intensive Auditions

Company Immersion Intensive & Summer Intensive (Sessions I–VI)

Summer Intensive 

Video Audition: HERE

All dancers are considered for NB2 and year-round programs

Contemporary Intensive

Video Audition: HERE

Limited enrollment. Admission by audition.

Swan Lake Returns to TPAC as Nashville Ballet Unveils the Spectacular Classic Production

The Iconic Full-Length Ballet Returns Feb. 27 – March 1, 2026, with Live Orchestra and Debut Performances in the Principal Roles

Nashville Ballet will bring Swan Lake, one of the most iconic works in classical ballet back to the stage for the first time since 2018 with a full-length production February 27 – March 1, 2026,at Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall.  Performed live to Tchaikovsky’s soaring score by The Nashville Symphony, the production marks a major artistic moment for the company and its dancers.

Choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling and inspired by the original works of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, Swan Lake is widely regarded as the definitive classical ballet that tells the story of Prince Siegfried and Odette, a Swan Queen cursed by an evil sorcerer to live as a swan by day and a woman by night. Only a vow of true love can break the spell. The ballet explores themes of love, deception and redemption through some of the most demanding and emotionally complex roles in classical dance.  

Nashville Ballet is the city’s premier and most authentic home for classical ballet, bringing Swan Lake to the stage with unmatched authority and artistic distinction. As Nashville’s resident professional ballet company, it delivers a level of craftsmanship, musicality and theatrical grandeur that defines true classical performance.  With a live orchestra, internationally trained artists and a legacy of original productions, this Swan Lake is not simply an event, it is Nashville’s definitive presentation of one of ballet’s greatest works.

“Swan Lake holds a special place in the classical canon and in Nashville Ballet’s history,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO of Nashville Ballet. “This production honors the tradition audiences expect while showcasing the power, athleticism and emotional clarity of today’s dancers in roles that define a classical career.”

A highlight of the 2026 run will be a series of principal role debuts, as four dancers step into the ballet’s most iconic and demanding roles for the first time.  Lily Saito and Colette Tilinski will alternate as Odette/Odile, while James Lankford and Jorge Emilio Peña alternate as Prince Siegfried. The dual role of Odette/Odile is widely considered the most challenging in classical ballet, requiring a single dancer to embody two dramatically opposite characters with extraordinary stamina, precision and emotional range.  Prince Siegfried presents a different but equally critical challenge, demanding sustained strength, flawless partnering and the ability to carry the ballet’s emotional arc.

The return of Swan Lake highlights Nashville Ballet’s rise as a nationally recognized company, delivering productions of remarkable scale and artistic ambition.

Performance Schedule:

• Friday, February 27, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.

• Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

• Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 2 p.m.

Swan Lake is recommended for audiences of all ages.   Tickets start at $54 and are on sale now at www.nashvilleballet.com/swan-lake-2526. 

Nashville Ballet’s 37th Annual Ballet Ball    

The Nashville Ballet will host Nashville Ballet’s 37th Annual Ballet Ballfundraising gala on March 7, 2026 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Inspired by the timeless beauty of Swan Lake, the 2026 gala will blend classical elegance with contemporary celebration in honor of the Ballet’s milestone 40th Season.   Underwriting opportunities are available now that provide access to all Ballet Ball events.  

Photo by Karyn Photography

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SCHOOL OF NASHVILLE BALLET ANNOUNCES NASHVILLE-BASED AUDITION FOR 2026 SUMMER INTENSIVES SET FOR JANUARY 31, 2026

School of Nashville Ballet has announced details for a Nashville-based audition for its 2026 Summer Intensive sessions including the Company Immersion Intensive. The Summer Intensive Audition Tour will conclude with an in-house audition on January 31, 2026, from 3:30-6 PM.  

Dancers who participate in the Summer Intensive sessions will be automatically considered for Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2) and select year-round training programs.  Auditions are open to dancers ages 12 and up and registration will close the Wednesday prior to each audition or when capacity is reached. 

Summer Intensive Program 

A featured offering is the Company Immersion Intensive, recommended for dancers ages 17–22 with pre-professional or professional experience. This selective five-week program focuses on advanced technical training, expanded repertoire and immersive performance opportunities. 

Led by Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet, the program transitions in its final two weeks into a company-style experience. Dancers take daily classes and rehearsals while collaborating with guest choreographers and Nashville-based musicians. The experience culminates in a live performance at The Martin Center at Nashville Ballet, offering dancers insight into the demands of life as a professional ballet dancer. 

"This is not a workshop, it’s professional-level training with real expectations,” said Dmitri Kulev, incoming Director of Nashville Ballet’s Second Company (NB2) and Head of Men’s Program. “We are preparing dancers for the demands of today’s ballet world. Our goal is for every student to leave stronger, more confident and clearer about their artistic path.” 

Audition Details 

$45 pre-registration 

$50 walk-ins 

Applicants must submit a resume, headshot and photo in first arabesque.

“We challenge dancers to grow while honoring what makes each artist unique,” said Jennifer Kulev, School of Nashville Director. “These intensives emphasize discipline, discovery and developing the confidence to step into the next phase of training.” 

In addition to the Summer Intensive sessions, School of Nashville Ballet offers Junior and Adult Intensives, providing high-quality training for dancers at different stages in a supportive, structured environment. No audition is required for these programs. 

Junior and Adult Intensives 

Junior Intensive (ages 9-13 or technical placement): School of Nashville Ballet students must have completed Academy Level 2 or have received special invitations. Outside students must have 2+ years of ballet training. 

Immerse your young dancer in a focused environment with Nashville Ballet’s faculty, providing them with a full-day intensive training to get a leg up in their future dance studies, technique and artistry by participating in our Junior Intensive program this summer.  

Through a combination of ballet, pre-pointe, repertory, jazz, character and other specialized workshops, students will grow their technique, strength and artistry and will leave with the knowledge and skills to reach the next level in their training.  

Students will participate in classes from approximately 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday – Friday, June 1-5 and 8-12, for either one or two weeks. Time will be built into their daily schedule for lunch.   

Adult Intensive (ages 18+): Open to the Nashville community and all levels of experience are welcome.  Designed to keep adult dancers on their toes, this two-week event provides an opportunity for participants to leap into a variety of movement-based classes.   

In addition to classical ballet technique taught by members of Nashville Ballet's professional Company and faculty, dancers will get to sample an eclectic array of dance-based genres, broadening their knowledge of the artform. This is a not-to-be-missed chance for every dancer to challenge their endurance, hone their skills and refine their artistry while in a warm and welcoming environment.   

Adult Intensive Classes will be held in the evenings Monday – Friday with a ballet technique class followed by a supplementary class. Participants are welcome to enroll for one week, both weeks, or drop in as their schedule allows. 

For details on Nashville auditions and program information, visit https://www.nashvilleballet.com/audition-tour or email intensive@nashvilleballet.com.