Month: August 2024

Mastering HVAC Basics: A Review of ‘The Complete HVAC Manual for Beginners’

‘The Complete HVAC Manual for Beginners’ by Frank Michael Hollis. Photo: Amazon

“The Complete HVAC Manual for Beginners” is a valuable resource for those new to the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). It provides a comprehensive introduction to HVAC systems, breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand segments. The writing is clear and easy to understand, making it an ideal starting point for beginners. The goal of the book is “…to equip you with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to navigate the world of HVAC.” It is good for homeowners, students considering a career in HVAC, and/or new professionals in the industry. For students, it includes the education, certifications, and career paths possible in the industry.

It covers the essential topics such as system components, installation procedures, maintenance practices, and troubleshooting techniques. Each chapter is well-organized with step-by-step instructions and practical tips that are particularly useful for hands-on learners. Hollis includes illustrative diagrams and colorful photographs that enhance comprehension, offering visual aids to complement the text.

Chapters include:

Introduction

Part I: Fundamentals of HVAC Systems

Part II: Components of HVAC Systems

Part III: HVAC System Designs

Part IV: Practical Applications, Installation, and Maintenance of HVAC Systems

Part V: Career Pathways in HVAC

Part VI: Advanced Topics: Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Part VII: Appendices and Additional Resources

 

Highlights:

Part V – it is aimed at students and it includes valuable information on Continuing Education and Professional Development and Professional Ethics and Safety in the HVAC Industry.

Part VI – informs readers on how to integrate renewable energy sources such as solar, geothermal, wind energy, and even hybrid systems to enhance energy efficiency.

Most importantly, it emphasizes safety and best practices, ensuring that beginners not only learn how to work with HVAC systems but also prioritize safety and efficiency. Hollis’s practical advice on common issues and preventative measures helps readers avoid potential pitfalls.

Overall, “The Complete HVAC Manual for Beginners” is a detailed and thorough guide that equips newcomers with the knowledge and confidence needed to enter the HVAC field. Homeowners who want to understand their heating and cooling systems will find it helpful as well. Its practical approach and clear explanations make it a valuable addition to any beginner’s toolkit.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The G: Exciting New Revenge Thriller Starring Dale Dickey and Romane Denis

Gritting revenge thriller The G is available now on digital download and Blu-ray. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Revenge thrillers have remained popular because they captivate audiences with their intense exploration of justice and retribution. They often follow a protagonist driven by a deep-seated need to avenge a wrong, leading to a gripping narrative of suspense and moral ambiguity. These films are marked by their high-stakes action, psychological tension, and complex characters. The quest for vengeance typically unravels through a series of dramatic confrontations and twists, keeping viewers on edge. With their potent mix of personal vendettas and explosive sequences, revenge thrillers offer a cathartic experience, prompting audiences to reflect on themes of justice, morality, and the cost of retribution.

In today’s movie news, The G is a new revenge thriller starring Dale Dickey, Romane Denis & Jonathan Koensgen. It’s the story of a mysterious older woman who seeks revenge on the corrupt legal guardian who destroyed her life. (Strike Media, 2024)

Written and directed by Karl R. Hearne, The G is available now to own or rent via Prime Video, Apple TV, Sky Store, Virgin Media Store and YouTube Movies, and own on Blu-ray from Amazon and HMV.

The G – Ann Hunter and her husband retired to an unnamed American suburb 10 years ago to be near his family. One day out of the blue they are snatched from their home by a corrupt legal guardian. Their home and assets are legally stripped from them and they are put in a prison-like “eldercare facility.” Trapped in a corrupt and terrifying system, “THE G” (Ann Hunter) begins to show her true mettle as she and her loyal granddaughter fight to get them out and get revenge on the people who did this.

“…an absorbing tale of regret, revenge, and Dickey at the top of her game.”
The Hollywood News

“Dickey is remarkable.”
Screen International

Dale Dickey as Ann Hunter in The G. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The Spa at Thompson Dallas Introduces All-New Wellness Packages

The Spa at Thompson Dallas has three new restorative wellness package options available for guests. Photo: Foxfield Agency, used with permission.

National Wellness Month, observed every August, is dedicated to promoting holistic well-being and self-care practices. It emphasizes the importance of physical, mental, and emotional health and encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles and stress management techniques. This month serves as a reminder to prioritize wellness through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and mindfulness. Community events, workshops, and resources aim to inspire people to set personal wellness goals and seek support. By focusing on self-care and resilience, National Wellness Month fosters a culture of health and vitality, helping individuals to lead more fulfilling and balanced lives.

While National Wellness Month may be coming to an end, Thompson Dallas offers wellness programming for travelers who prioritize physical and mental health, no matter the time of year. These three new restorative wellness packages at Thompson Dallas are available to guests every day. Whether guests are looking for an in-spa service or want the comforts of the spa delivered straight to their room, The Spa at Thompson Dallas has them covered. (The Spa at Thompson Dallas, 2024)

Bath Butler

  • In-Room, $150 – Transform your in-room bath into a sanctuary with the new Bath Butler Box. The box includes a crush bath soak kit, bubble bath bliss kit, and Vagus Nerve bath oil as well as after-bath care, including vagus nerve pillow mist, Acrely Farms CBD Relax Gummies, and moisture-rich eye treatment. Each element is designed to soothe, pamper, and rejuvenate, providing guests with a complete at-home spa experience.

Disconnect to Reconnect: a Touchless Spa Journey 

  • In-Spa Service, 3 hours, $185 – Touchless Wellness is a hands-off approach that allows the body to recover with compression therapy, rejuvenate with hot and cold plunge pools, and recharge with infrared sauna and eucalyptus steam rooms. The spa incorporates the latest in touchless technology paired perfectly with traditional healing facilities to work towards a more improved physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Touchless Well-being: Comfort and Recovery at Your Fingertips

  • In-Room, 24-hour rental, $125 – Touchless Well-being brings convenience and relaxation right to the comfort of guests’ rooms. This exclusive partnership with Therabody enhances guests’ stay with 24-hour access to a range of Therabody devices, including Compression Boots for boosted circulation and lymphatic drainage, Massage Percussive Device for recovery, tension, muscle fatigue, and soreness and Massage Eye Goggles for reduced stress, headache relief, sleep improvement and relaxation. 

Thompson Dallas
205 North Akard Street
Dallas, TX 75201

Live From The Ryman: Modern-Day Bluegrass Legend Dan Tyminski’s New Live Concert Album

Dan Tyminski: Live From The Ryman bottles the bluegrass legend’s electric live show. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Bluegrass is a vibrant American musical genre rooted in Appalachian folk traditions. Characterized by its upbeat tempo and virtuosic instrumentation, it blends elements of Scotch-Irish folk music with jazz and blues influences. Typical bluegrass ensembles feature acoustic instruments like the banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and upright bass. The genre’s hallmark is its high, harmony-rich vocals and complex, improvisational solos, often performed in a fast-paced, “breakdown” style. Over the years, bluegrass has evolved while still preserving its traditional core, resonating with audiences through its authenticity, storytelling, and lively spirit.

I became a fan of the genre when the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou came out where Dan Tyminski sings “I Am A Man Of Constant Sorrow.” In today’s music news, his new album is out now and it includes that song.

Dan Tyminski is an icon of modern-day bluegrass. In addition to reaching Number 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums chart with solo albums like 2008’s Wheels and 2023’s God Fearing Heathen, he has won 14 Grammy Awards, released multiple records as a member of Alison Krauss & Union Station, and topped the charts in more than 10 countries with “Hey Brother,” his genre-bending collaboration with DJ Avicii. Tyminski sang “I Am A Man Of Constant Sorrow” on O Brother, Where Art Thou?’s multi-platinum soundtrack, inspiring a new generation to discover bluegrass and traditional American folk music. His new release, Dan Tyminski: Live From The Ryman captures him onstage in Nashville, Tennessee, performing a mix of songs from throughout his career with a string band. (IV-PR, 2024)

Released via 8 Track Entertainment and ADA/Warner Music Group, Dan Tyminski: Live From The Ryman shines a light on his acclaimed live show. Recorded in Nashville at the Ryman Auditorium—the legendary venue known as “The Birthplace of Bluegrass”—the new album showcases the sharp songwriting, full-throttle vocals, and guitar chops that have powered Tyminski’s music for decades. It’s also a showcase for his ace band, a young group of fiery flat-pickers, hotshot instrumentalists, and harmony singers whose sheer talent is matched only by the band’s frontman. The result is a blend of old and new: a record that makes room for traditional influences, progressive energy, cover songs, originals, and unreleased material.

Fans can stream or purchase Dan Tyminski: Live From The Ryman right now. Physical copies of Live From The Ryman—vinyl and CD—will be available at all retail outlets on October 4.

“The musicians in this band grew up listening to my music, so they know my stuff much better than I do!” Tyminski says. “If you listen to how they play and how well they listen to each other, you’ll notice there’s a conversation going back and forth at all times.”

That conversation springs to life during instrumental numbers like “Cumberland Gap.” It continues with live renditions of “Ode to Jimmy” (a tribute to Tyminski’s childhood hero, Jimmy Martin), “Silence in the Brandy” (which examines the lingering effects of PTSD on soldiers returning home from war), and “GOAT” — all of which appeared on God Fearing Heathen, which debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass chart in 2023—and breathes new life into older material like the aforementioned “This Sad Song,” which Tyminski first performed on Alison Krauss & Union Station’s Grammy-winning Lonely Runs Both Ways. On “Whiskey Drinking Man,” Tyminski sings about hard liquor with a commanding voice that reaches all the way to the rearmost rows of the Ryman, then cedes the spotlight to mandolinist Harry Clark, fiddler Maddie Denton, Dobro player Gaven Largent, banjoist Jason Davis, and upright bassist Grace Davis. There’s also a standout performance of “I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow,” the career-changing song that won a Grammy Award in 2002 and has since served as a bridge for multiple generations of music fans, helping them discover their own love of bluegrass and traditional folk music.

Dan Tyminski: Live From The Ryman tracklist:
This Sad Song
Let Me Fall
Modern Day Jezebel
Cumberland Gap
Ode to Jimmy
God Fearing Heathen
The Boy Who Wouldn’t Hoe Corn
I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow
Silence in the Brandy
Say Won’t You Be Mine
GOAT
Whiskey Drinking Man
Old Home Place

Catch Dan Tyminski on tour:
August 30-31 – New Richmond, QC – New Richmond Bluegrass Festival 2024
September 20 – Louisville, KY – Bourbon & Beyond 2024
October 5 – Doswell, VA – State Fair of Virginia
October 11-12 – Big Stone Gap, VA – Blue Highway Fest 2024
October 18-19 – Farmers Branch, TX – Bloomin’ Bluegrass Festival 2024
October 20 – Brownwood, TX – Brownwood’s Lyric Theatre
November 16 – Rochester, NY – Kilbourn Hall

Ukes for Youth: National Nonprofit Can’d Aid Launches New Ukulele Donation Initiative

Can’d Aid invites volunteers to assemble and decorate ukuleles to donate to kids. Photo: Can’d Aid, used with permission.

Nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in addressing social, environmental, and community issues by operating for the public good rather than profit. They rely on donations, grants, and volunteers to fund their missions, which range from supporting education to advocating for human rights and environmental conservation. Nonprofits often serve marginalized or underserved populations, filling gaps left by government and private sector efforts. Their success is measured not by financial gain but by the impact they make, fostering community engagement and driving positive change. Through dedication and collaboration, nonprofits help build a more equitable and compassionate society.

Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating a ripple effect of goodness. Their people-powered programs provide tools and access for under-resourced communities to lead healthy, active, and creative lives. Since its inception in 2013, over 12,000 bikes, 8,500 skateboards and more than 3,800 new instruments have been donated to kids in underserved communities nationwide. Can’d Aid’s Crush It Crusade program also works to strengthen recycling initiatives nationwide in partnership with Ball Foundation. With the help of thousands of generous volunteers, Can’d Aid is building a movement and model for innovative, responsive and connected community engagement. (Turn It Up Media, 2024)

Longmont, Colorado – Can’d Aid announces the launch of their new Ukes for Youth initiative, which builds, decorates and donates ukuleles to children. The program blends the wildly successful, people-powered element of Can’d Aid’s bike and skateboard builds with the creative ethos of their Music + Arts program, which donates new instruments to public school music programs. 

Can’d Aid is excited to pilot the instrument build, which integrates some of their strongest and most impactful approaches to doing good, in Broomfield at Rails End Beer Company from 5p.m. -7p.m. on August 28, 2024.

Why ukuleles? Learning an instrument like the ukulele teaches young musicians skills like tuning, rhythm, hand coordination, sight reading, and other skills; along with cultivating broader social and emotional benefits that can last a lifetime. Can’d Aid encourages kids to live their most creative lives by providing instruments nationwide.

Instrument builds are a new addition to Can’d Aid’s Music + Arts Program, which provides instruments and inspiration to the next generation of musicians. Supporting the program are Can’d Aid’s Tunes Ambassadors, including GRAMMY nominated artists like Tyler Childers and The Food Stamps, and The Steep Canyon Rangers, who take time out while on tour to visit underfunded public schools for live performances and one-on-one connection with students. For many students this is their first live-music experience and can spark for a lifetime love of the arts. To date, Can’d Aid’s Music + Arts program has donated more than 3,800 new instruments to music programs across the country. Can’d Aid is excited to add ukulele building volunteer opportunities to further fuel their people-powered programs and get more instruments into kids’ hands.

If you’re in the Broomfield, Colorado area and wish to participate in this worthwhile event:

Get into the rhythm of giving back when you join Can’d Aid, Tegna Foundation, and the Broomfield Community Foundation at the upcoming Ukulele Build at Rails End Beer Company. Assemble a ukulele and decorate it with an inspirational message or creative design. Can’d Aid will provide all necessary supplies. 60 ukuleles will be built and donated to kids in the Broomfield, Colorado area.

“We have wanted to add a people-powered element to our Music program for years, and piloting this Ukulele program is really exciting for all of us! We hope the new volunteer offering will attract die-hard Can’d Aiders and newcomers alike, as we work to get more instruments into kids’ hands.”

Photo: Can’d Aid, used with permission.

Exploring Jim Morrison’s Esoteric Legacy in Paul Wyld’s New Book

‘Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult: A Journey to the Other Side’ by Paul Wyld. Photo: Amazon

Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman of The Doors, was a pioneering figure in rock music, known for his distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence. Born on December 8, 1943, Morrison’s lyrics often explored the themes of existentialism, love, and rebellion, making him a symbol of counterculture in the 1960s. His poetic and provocative performances captivated audiences and influenced countless musicians. Despite his profound impact, Morrison’s life was tragically cut short when he died on July 3, 1971, in Paris at the age of 27. His legacy endures through his innovative contributions to rock music and his status as an iconic cultural figure.

In today’s book news, there’s a new book coming out next month that shines the spotlight on this charismatic rock legend.

Paul Wyld is a singer-songwriter, artist, poet, and author with a liberal arts degree in history. His new book “Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult: A Journey to the Other Side” is a journey into the mystical and spiritual side of the famed Doors front man. It will be released on September 10, 2024 (Inner Traditions, 2024)

“Jim Morrison, Secret Teacher of the Occult” – The groundbreaking 1960s band The Doors, named for Aldous Huxley’s The Doors of Perception, achieved incredible acclaim and influence, ultimately serving as a key group in the development of psychedelic and progressive rock. At the center of it all was front man Jim Morrison, who died in 1971 at age 27. Yet, as author Paul Wyld reveals, despite Morrison’s reputation as a lewd, drunken performer, he was a full-fledged mystical, shamanic figure, a secret teacher of the occult who was not merely central to the development of rock music, but also to the growth of the Western esoteric tradition as a whole.

Wyld looks at the mystical works that inspired Morrison, including Kurt Seligmann’s The Mirror of Magic, Colin Wilson’s The Outsider, and the writings of Nietzsche and Jack Kerouac. Drawing on Morrison’s lyrics and poems, his intimate writings, and the recollections of friends like photographer Paul Ferrara and Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek, the author makes the case that Morrison was not simply a superficial dabbler in the occult but an actual secret teacher transmitting knowledge through the golden thread stretching back to Egypt and Thoth-Hermes.

Explaining how Morrison sought to use his role as a rock singer to express the power of inner experience, Wyld shows how praxis was at the heart of Morrison’s approach, revealed in his journey through the arduous ordeals of shamanic initiation. He was a shaman, mystic, and sage—and an essential part of a great spiritual awakening to which he gave himself over fully.

This book:

• Reveals Jim Morrison as a shamanic initiate and esoteric teacher who used his role as a rock singer to promote the adventure of the spirit and express the power of inner experience

• Examines Morrison’s deep occult and artistic influences, including Kurt Seligmann’s The Mirror of Magic, Colin Wilson’s The Outsider, and the works of Jack Kerouac

• Draws on Morrison’s lyrics and poems, his intimate writings, and the recollections of friends like photographer Paul Ferrara and Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek

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Heartfelt and Honest: Exploring the Emotional Depth and Storytelling of ‘Daddy Sam’

‘Daddy Sam’ by Pamela Dubois. Photo: Amazon

“Daddy Sam” by Pamela Dubois is a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that explores the dynamics of family, identity, and resilience. The story centers around Sam and his journey from a tough childhood stemming from losing his mother when he was nine years old, to serving in World War II, returning to civilian life, marriage at a young age, raising a family of his own, becoming a successful businessman, and navigating retirement. The narrative is emotionally charged and insightful, diving deep into Sam’s life. It includes pictures of a young Sam and his wife Virginia as well as pictures of a love letter he wrote to her while on military duty and other personal mementos.

Main Chapters:
Introduction
Preface
Sam: The Early Years
Marriage
Military Service at the 38th Parallel
Civilian Life
Occupational Career
Retirement Travel
Second Career
Life After Virginia Fay

The character development and authentic portrayal of familial bonds makes Sam relatable. Dubois’s prose is both lyrical and poignant, capturing the nuances of grief, love, and personal growth with remarkable sensitivity. The interactions between Sam and family and friends are depicted with a sincerity that will resonate with readers who have experienced similar struggles or joys in their own lives.

Overall, “Daddy Sam” is compelling read that offers valuable reflections on the nature of family, resilience, and the enduring power of love. Though it’s a brief overview of Sam’s life, Pamela Dubois has delivered a touching and memorable story that will linger with readers. It is an easy read and recommended for readers who enjoy biographies and family saga fiction.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Finding Connection and Healing in ‘Return To Me’ by Linda Lopez

‘Return To Me: A House Divided’ by Linda Lopez

“Return To Me: A House Divided” is the story of Ethan Salmanaire who had a rough childhood. While still young, he meets Melodia Procaccini Licciardello and eventually they get married and have children of their own. Along the way, they open their home to several children who were either abandoned or abused. Theirs is a complicated story filled with secrets, strained family relationships, and personal struggles.

This novel is a combination of literary fiction and family drama that explores the complexities of loyalty, love, and legacy. The writing is rich with detail: “The excitement is her voice traveled like a breeze in a meadow through Giovanni’s hair, more so in a concerning manner;” while the narrative emphasizes the themes of reconciliation and personal growth, painting a portrait of a family struggling to heal in the midst of external and internal conflicts. The topics of reconciliation and self-discovery are handled with sensitivity, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships.

Ethan and Melodia’s journey is poignant and insightful and told through multiple perspectives, allowing readers to experience the chaos and conflicting loyalties each character faces. The characters are richly developed, with their individual struggles making them relatable and real. The pacing is steady, with tension building as the family confronts their shared history.

Overall, “Return to Me: A House Divided” is a thought provoking and heartfelt tale about the power of family ties and the resilience needed to mend them. Focused on the power of love and the enduring bonds of family, it is recommended for readers interested in the complexities of human relationships, particularly siblings and blended families.

“The empty cups shimmered in the sunlight that seeped through the window as we spoke at the table. It was unsettling, unreal. Expecting nothing was new to me because, for the first time, all the administrators of oppression were gone.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

A Fresh Take On Fear: The Latest British Horror Film To Watch

New horror movie Lore to premiere on Icon Film Channel. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

People are drawn to horror movies for the thrilling blend of fear and excitement. These films offer a safe way to confront our deepest anxieties and explore the unknown, allowing us to experience intense emotions without real-life consequences. The adrenaline rush, combined with the sense of suspense and surprise, creates a captivating experience. They often include complex narratives and intriguing villains, which can be intellectually stimulating. For some, the communal aspect of watching horror with friends adds to the enjoyment, as shared scares and reactions enhance the overall experience. The genre’s unique ability to provoke both terror and fascination keeps audiences coming back for more.

In today’s movie news, there’s a new British horror movie out. If you love them just as much as I do, here’s some more information:

Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment is thrilled to announce the release of horror film Lore, premiering exclusively on the Icon Film Channel starting August 26, 2024. (Strike Media Ltd, 2024)

Lore – A gripping and gruesome anthology horror, this highly acclaimed film, which premiered at FrightFest 2023, stars Richard Brake (Doom, Hannibal Rising), Andrew Lee Potts (The Witcher, Primeval), Bill Fellows (Ted Lasso, Lady Macbeth), and Rufus Hound (Hounded, Queens of Mystery).

Four young thrill-seeking friends book a horror-themed camping excursion led by Darwin, a strange and eccentric guide. One night around the campfire, Darwin encourages them to tell the scariest and most twisted story they know. As they recount tales of sinister spirits and malevolent demons, the group soon realizes that these stories will have very real consequences for them all.

A love letter to classic horror, Lore is premiering exclusively on the Icon Film Channel starting August 26; sign up for a 7-day free trial here or via the Icon Film Channel on Amazon Prime.

Icon Film Channel Release Date: August 26
Theatrical Release Date: September 27
TVOD Release Date: October 21
Directors: James Bushe, Patrick Ryder and Greig Johnson
Run Time: 87 Minutes

Still from the new horror movie Lore. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Children’s Ballet of San Antonio Announces Extended Auditions on Saturday

Nutcracker Clara and Nutcracker. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.

Due to an overwhelming response, The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) will host an additional round of auditions for its fall productions this Saturday, August 24, 2024. As CBSA sets out to celebrate double digits with its 10th Anniversary, talented young performers have a pas de deux or duet of opportunities to shine with two auditions for holiday productions. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2024)

“After a number of artist inquiries and requests, we are thrilled to extend our auditions to accommodate busy, back to school schedules. Those who missed our open call last weekend, can join us this Saturday to audition for either or both productions. We have so much amazing talent in San Antonio, we can’t wait to share them with our audience through these incredible productions.” – Vanessa Bessler, Founder and Artistic Director of The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio

Get ready for an enchanting adventure as Polar Express: The Musical! makes its world premiere at the iconic Empire Theatre December 6-8, 2024. Young performers can be a part of this heartwarming holiday classic brought to life on stage. CBSA seeks dynamic musical theatre performers ages 8-19 to hop on board the Polar Express: The Musical!

Be a part of The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s 10th anniversary production of The Children’s Nutcracker and celebrate a decade of holiday enchantment. The timeless ballet comes to life on the magnificent Lila Cockrell stage, located on the historic Riverwalk December 13-15, 2024. Dancers from multiple disciplines, gymnasts, musicians and actors aged 3 to 19 are invited to audition and be part of this magical milestone production.

Whether you have a preschool prima donna eager to join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince around the Christmas Tree or a talented tween actor hoping his stage debut comes on a train to the North Pole, young performers of all abilities have another opportunity to showcase their unique skills by auditioning for either (or both!).

Cast members will not want to miss the chance to train with the award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio. Since its founding 10 years ago, CBSA performers have studied with acclaimed Master Ballet Teachers and the most talented local choreographers, won numerous international awards, and accepted scholarships to world-renowned ballet institutions like the Royal Ballet School in London, the Bolshoi Ballet in Russia, and the School of American Ballet in New York City, to name a few.

Founder Vanessa Bessler is a nine-time consecutive winner of Youth America Grand Prix’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year, an acknowledgment of her dedication to finding and cultivating young, local talent. CBSA’s associated Dance Center was recently recognized as among the top 2.5 percent of ballet institutions in the nation. Bessler will serve as artistic director for both productions, leading talented teams of award-winning dancers, singers, musicians, actors, and even gymnasts to create professional-caliber productions that embrace the contributions of all performers, including those with special needs.

Polar Express: The Musical!
Auditioning for musical theatre performers ages 8-19.

The Children’s Nutcracker
Auditioning for a wide range of dancers, musicians, actors, and gymnasts ages 3 – 19.

Age 3-7: 12p.m. – 1p.m. Dance Audition
Age 8-11: 1p.m. – 2p.m. Dance & Gymnast Audition
Polar Express OPEN CALL 2p.m. – 3p.m. Age 8+ Musical Theatre performers
Age 12+: 3p.m. – 4p.m. Dance & Gymnast Audition

Dance Center of San Antonio Studios
126 W. Rector, Ste. 120.
San Antonio, Texas 78216

Please Register Prior to Auditions.
Video Auditions are also accepted. Please send video auditions to Children’s Ballet of San Antonio. 

The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is an authentic, professional-level ballet company that produces professionally staged productions showcasing San Antonio’s most talented children. Dancers are selected by invitation or audition. The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is a nonprofit organization 501(c)3. 

Mission: The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) seeks to inspire the pursuit of excellence and prepare children for productive and creative lives through dance by offering extensive training and performance opportunities for talented children from all backgrounds.

Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.