For ballet students and their families at The Pointe School of Dance, the holiday season brings something extra magical each year: the chance to perform in The Nutcracker. This timeless ballet has been delighting audiences for over a century, and here at The Pointe, we are thrilled to produce our third full-length production in 2025. But our Nutcracker is not just a performance. It is a tradition, a memory-maker, and an experience that helps our students grow as artists and as people.

If you have ever wondered what makes The Pointe’s Nutcracker so special, here are just a few reasons why this production is a highlight of our year - and why your ballet student will love being part of it.

An Opportunity for Every Eligible Ballet Student

At The Pointe, we believe that dance should be accessible and meaningful for every student, regardless of their age or level. That is why we open our Nutcracker class performance opportunities to all ballet students enrolled in Ballet 1 through Advanced and Adult Ballet, including Home School Ballet. Every eligible ballet student has a place in this magical story.

Whether it is their very first time stepping on stage or their tenth, our students get to share in the experience of bringing this holiday classic to life. Every role, big or small, is important, and every student contributes to the story and beauty of the production.

More Than Just a Recital Dance

Unlike a spring recital, where each class performs one piece, our Nutcracker is a full production with large group ensembles, costumes rented from the studio, combined Act I and Act II scenes, and a professional theater setting.

Ballet students learn choreography during their regular classes, and they rehearse alongside classmates, making the process feel both exciting and comfortable. Along the way, they grow their technique, performance quality, and confidence.

The performance package also includes

• Costume rental so there is no ordering stress

• A Nutcracker cast t-shirt

• Four performance tickets for family and friends

• A professional performance experience complete with backdrops, props, scenery, and even onstage snow!

Building Life Skills On and Off Stage

Yes, performing in The Nutcracker develops performance skills, but it also teaches so much more.

• Commitment: Ballet students must show excellent attendance in class, work hard each week, and practice at home with provided music and video resources

• Teamwork: Being part of a cast means showing up for each other and working toward a shared goal

• Confidence: Standing on stage in costume, under the lights, brings a sense of accomplishment that carries into every part of life

• Memories: Ask any student who has participated before, and they will tell you the friendships, backstage giggles, and proud moments last long after the final curtain closes

Parents often share how much their ballet students grow during the Nutcracker season not only as performers but as young people learning responsibility and resilience.

A Holiday Tradition That Unites Our Community

Our Nutcracker is more than a show. It is an experience that brings families and the community together.

Parents are part of the journey as they watch their ballet students grow, cheer from the audience, and celebrate backstage. Siblings often participate together, creating memories that bond families for years to come.

For the wider Cedar Rapids community, The Pointe’s Nutcracker has quickly become a beloved holiday tradition. Audiences look forward to seeing ballet students of all ages come together to tell this timeless story of magic, snowflakes, and holiday wonder.

Registration Details You Do Not Want to Miss

If your ballet student is interested in performing, now is the time to sign up.

• Registration deadline: Friday, September 19

• Dress rehearsal: Saturday, December 7

• Performances: Saturday, December 14 at Linn-Mar High School

• Extra rehearsals for combined Act I and Act II scenes and finale: evenings of October 22 and October 23

Please note that ballet students must sign up to participate. This is not automatic with ballet class enrollment.

Why Families Love It

Year after year, parents tell us that watching their children perform in The Nutcracker is one of the most memorable parts of their dance journey. From the moment their ballet student first steps on stage to the final bow, the pride and joy are unmistakable.

It is more than a show. It is a tradition that deepens your child’s love of ballet, strengthens their character, and fills your family’s holiday season with magic.

Ready to Join the Magic?

The Pointe’s Nutcracker is a truly special opportunity that your ballet student will carry with them for years to come. Do not miss your chance to be part of this holiday tradition.

📅 Register by Friday, September 19 to secure your ballet student’s spot.

We cannot wait to see your dancer shine on stage this December.

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The Pointe School of Dance presents

2025