As part of our commitment to providing a complete dance education, we present the timeless Christmas masterpiece, The Nutcracker in December (see calendar for dates).  One purpose of performing is for students to learn to present themselves before an audience.  Learning about performance is an undeniable asset to each dancer’s training that prepares them for public speaking and presentations later in life.  Participation in the performance is not required for enrolled students, but is highly recommended.  Presenting a ballet performance differs from a Recital because it not only includes choreography but, also includes mime, acting and is set to orchestral music, usually with no vocals which fine tunes any performer's musicality. The Elite School of Dance by Elena is honored to perform this classic ballet and pride ourselves on the professional quality of our production and we expect our students and their families to do the same.

Costumes are required for the Elite Nutcracker and are provided by the studio through rental expense. Auditions are held at the end of September (see calendar for dates). Choreography and staging takes place on weekends over the course of ten weeks There is a non-refundable payment due on the day of auditions, and a second payment due in October. Continuing with our professional standards, uniformity is imperative, so you are responsible for purchasing one pair of each style of tights needed along with the correct shoes as communicated by the choreographers. Our dance apparel store can provide you with the appropriate tights and dance shoes. All female dancers are required to wear their hair in a bun and to use proper stage make up. We take great pride in our dancers' appearances, and by following costume, hair, and make up guidelines, we achieve our distinguished professional quality.

Leading up to the Nutcracker, The Elite School of Dance by Elena hosts informational meetings and Hair and Make Up Days to supply more detailed information about the performance, along with a Nutcracker packet.  Essentially, the Nutcracker consists of a weekend involving a Stage Rehearsal, a Dress Rehearsal, and one performance of the ballet.  The Elite Nutcracker is a very exciting time, which provides dancers and their families invaluable, lifelong memories.