The Festival Ballet of North Central Texas is a vibrant company with a broad reach and a longstanding partnership with the Denton community. Festival Ballet first presented the well-known and cherished classical tale The Nutcracker in 1988, and it has become a holiday tradition in Denton. Dancers for the company are chosen through open auditions held in August of each year. The performances showcase over 150 dancers that represent over 30 communities in the North Central Texas region as well as dancers from across the United States and Europe. We would like to extend our appreciation for area dance schools and their dancers’ contributions. The production allows local youth talent the opportunity to experience the intricacies and dedication required for a full-length professional ballet. By working together, we make the season a magical one for our audience and our cast.
Festival Ballet’s mission is to provide a professional and quality performance experience that transports our audience into a magical world that is filled with enchanting characters, beautifully choreographed ballet sequences, and artfully designed costumes and sets for its 150-plus cast and over 2,000-plus audience members.
Each year, selections from the Festival Ballet’s The Nutcracker are featured at the Denton Tree Lighting on the square and other select special events. Performances are held at the University of North Texas University Theater in the RTVF & Performing Arts Building where in December with multiple performances available.
The Festival Ballet of North Central Texas is recognized as a type 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. Board members Eldar Valiev, Christina Cost, Ashley Odom, Jennifer Day, and Katie Hart bring a rich history and a wide range of expertise and knowledge from within and outside of the ballet and theatrical worlds. We must express our sincere gratitude to the unparalleled dedication of our 150-plus volunteers, and the support and amazing generosity of our sponsors and local businesses. By providing a production locally, Festival Ballet has the unique opportunity to share the beauty and artistry of classical ballet with our beloved community.