The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio has your ticket to a world of winter wonder. Photo: Infinite Photography SA.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio Brings Holiday Magic Back to the Stage
San Antonio, TX — Cherished traditions make the holidays truly special, and this year, the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is once again lighting up the season with spectacular productions sure to captivate audiences of all ages. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2025)
A Beloved Holiday Classic Returns
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s enchanting production of The Children’s Nutcracker returns to the iconic Lila Cockrell Theatre December 12–14. Audiences can expect breathtaking choreography, lavish costumes, and stunning scenery brought to life by some of the most talented young dancers in Bexar County.
For families seeking a magical holiday tradition, this professional-level production is one you won’t want to miss.
A Decade of Excellence in Youth Performing Arts
For more than ten years, CBSA has been a leader in youth performing arts, pairing professional training with exceptional performance opportunities. Under the guidance of acclaimed Artistic Director Vanessa Bessler, Master Ballet Teachers, and top local choreographers, CBSA dancers have earned international awards and received scholarships to prestigious institutions such as:
John Cranko School (Stuttgart Ballet, Germany)
Royal Ballet School (London)
School of American Ballet (New York City)
Rising Stars Bring ‘The Children’s Nutcracker’ to Life
CBSA’s mission to elevate young artists, including pint-sized prima ballerinas, gifted young adult dancers, and inspiring performers with special needs, is on full display in this year’s production.
Honoring Tchaikovsky’s original score and the classic Nutcracker tradition, the 90-minute performance is perfectly crafted to keep younger audiences engaged from beginning to end.
This season’s featured dancers include Daniela Quiroga, Jaida Soleman, William Bessler, Joaquin Marsh, Inez Dunne, Louise Picha, and Gigi Natho, who will perform beloved roles such as Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Cavalier. Opulent costumes, magical sets, and exquisite choreography promise to delight both longtime fans and first-time viewers of this timeless tale.
Festive Fun Begins Before the Curtain Rises
Guests can get into the holiday spirit early with a charming pre-show holiday market featuring unique gifts and collectibles. Families can enjoy seasonal treats, take photos with Santa, meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and cast members, and enjoy joyful performances from the San Antonio Academy Wildcat’s Chorale and Mariachi Orgullo del Sur.
Event Details
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio Presents: The Children’s Nutcracker
Note: Holiday Market and Photos with Santa and the cast open one hour prior to showtime.
Location: Lila Cockrell Theatre 200 E. Market Street San Antonio, TX 78205
About the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio
The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) professional-level ballet company that showcases the city’s most talented young dancers. Performers are selected by audition or invitation, and receive extensive training and performance experience.
Mission: To inspire excellence and prepare children for creative, productive lives through dance by offering world-class training and performance opportunities to talented youth from all backgrounds.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents The Little Mermaid, diving into the Majestic Theatre May 16 and 17. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Dive Into Magic: The Little Mermaid Comes to Life in San Antonio
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio invites audiences to journey under the sea with a dazzling, reimagined production of The Little Mermaid. On May 16 and 17, nearly 200 of San Antonio’s most talented young performers will transform the historic Majestic Theatre into Ariel’s underwater kingdom. This 90-minute spectacle promises a visual and emotional feast, blending stunning sets, acrobatics, and professional-level talent to enchant audiences of all ages. (The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2025)
Inspired by the beloved Disney adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale, this dynamic production brings together the best of classical and contemporary performance. Whether you’re a fan of ballet, Broadway, or bold visual storytelling, The Little Mermaid is not to be missed.
CBSA continues its nationally recognized mission to offer young artists a professional stage experience. This production features choreography by a powerhouse team:
Jennifer Hart (Ballet Austin)
Isabella Grosso, known for her work in music videos
Nurlan Kinerbayev, a visiting master from Kazakhstan and principal artist at the Dance Center of San Antonio
Kinerbayev will perform during the Friday night and Saturday matinee shows, joined by Aliaksandra Krukava, an internationally acclaimed artist formerly with the Russian National Ballet. For the Saturday evening show, Sophia Leune, a rising star from NEISD’s School of the Arts, will grace the stage.
Immersive Theater Like You’ve Never Seen
Prepare to be swept away—literally! With high-tech digital effects, a real pool onstage, and aerial acrobats flying through ocean-inspired scenes, the production immerses guests “under the sea.” The audience is encouraged to sing along with live renditions of hit songs from the animated classic.
This is not just a ballet—it’s a multi-genre extravaganza blending dance, music, and acrobatics to entertain the whole family.
A Perfect Family Outing
Looking for a belated Mother’s Day celebration or a special treat for a graduating theatre-lover? An afternoon or evening at The Little Mermaid is a magical way to make memories.
Before the show, visit the pre-show market in the Majestic Theatre’s lobby. Arrive early for:
Mermaid-themed merchandise
Face painting
Photo ops with the cast
Fans are encouraged to come in costume—mermaid tails, princess gowns, and sea-worthy outfits welcome!
A Show with a Mission
More than just a performance, The Little Mermaid supports the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s broader mission to make the arts accessible. Thanks to CBSA and the affiliated Dance Center of San Antonio:
Nearly 2,500 dancers have received life-changing training and opportunities
More than 35,000 Title I schoolchildren have attended performances
Over 2,000 underserved youth have been reached through outreach
$100,000+ in scholarships have supported students with financial or special needs
When you buy a ticket, you’re supporting the next generation of artists.
Showtimes & Location
📍 The Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205
🗓️ Showtimes:
Friday, May 16 at 7p.m.
Saturday, May 17 at 2p.m. & 7p.m. Pre-show market and photo opportunities begin one hour before curtain.
About the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is an award-winning, nonprofit organization offering young dancers a professional platform to shine. Through auditions and invitations, performers receive elite training and the chance to appear in full-scale productions that rival those of adult companies.
CBSA is also home to the Dance Center of San Antonio, which provides top-tier training to performers of all ages and abilities, embracing the motto: “The arts are for everyone.”
Whether you’re reliving a favorite fairy tale or witnessing it for the first time, The Little Mermaid is a magical experience you won’t forget. Dive in—the ocean awaits.
Transport your family to a magical winter wonderland with The Children’s Nutcracker. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX —The Children’s Nutcracker is a truly enchanting, family-friendly adaptation of the classic Christmastime ballet. Presented on December 13 and 14 by the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, the region’s foremost institution for youth dance instruction, this dynamic production infuses the timeless elegance of The Nutcracker ballet with CBSA’s mission to create professional-grade performance opportunities for pint sized prima ballerinas, supremely talented young adult dancers and inspiring special needs performers. Ticket information is available through Ticketmaster.
The 10th anniversary winter wonderland production takes place at the magnificent Lila Cockrell Theater, located amidst the famous San Antonio Riverwalk’s famed holiday light display. The 90-minute runtime ensures young audiences stay enthralled and inspired, while pre-show opportunities to visit Santa, shop at an onsite holiday market, and indulge in mouthwatering treats from the Kingdom of Sweets create the perfect atmosphere to kick off the holiday season.
Eagerly anticipated auditions draw hundreds of regional applicants hoping to secure a spot on San Antonio’s top stages and dance alongside world-renowned guest artists. This year, international ballet masters and principal artists Aliaksandra Krukava and Nurlan Kinerbayev, both experts in ballet’s acclaimed Vaganova method made famous by the likes of Anna Pavlova, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Rudolf Nureyev, return to lend their expertise to the choreography and staging of The Children’s Nutcracker, as well as dance the principal roles for the December 13 performance. These acclaimed dancers have performed leading roles in classical ballets for numerous companies throughout Europe and the United States, including the Russian National Ballet. Their presence on a San Antonio stage is truly a unique opportunity, made possible by CBSA.
The production is sure to satisfy audiences familiar with the 19th century tale of young Clara and her magical Nutcracker Prince, and dazzle those experiencing the cherished tradition for the first time. All the grandeur of Tchaikovsky’s original ballet score and the classic elements of The Nutcracker legacy are retained in The Children’s Nutcracker, while the energetic pace is designed to entrance younger audiences from start to finish.
Adding to the holiday cheer is the knowledge that proceeds from The Children’s Nutcracker support CBSA’s civic altruism. To date, the company and the affiliated Dance Center of San Antonio has provided life-changing educational and performance opportunities to nearly 2,500 young dancers from South and Central Texas, performed for more than 35,000 Title I schoolchildren and 2,000 underserved community members affiliated with Bexar County youth and family service organizations, and awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to special needs, boys’ dance, and financial needs-based students.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents The Children’s Nutcracker
Friday December 13, 7p.m. and Saturday December 14, 2p.m.
Note: Holiday Market and Photos with Santa and cast opens one hour prior to showtime.
The Lila Cockrell Theatre 200 E. Market Street San Antonio, TX 78205
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
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.
Treat mom to some special treats from Bakery Lorraine. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Mother’s Day is this Sunday May 12 and if you’re still looking for ideas to celebrate mom on her special day, several businesses in the San Antonio area have special offerings available. Whether mom likes a spa day, brunch, sweets, or a day at the theater, here’s a selection of what’s hot this year. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, Bakery Lorraine, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2024)
The Mother’s Day Brunch will be from 11a.m. – 3p.m. on Sunday, May 12 at Landrace. Menu highlights will include classic brunch delights like French toast topped with seasonal compote, buttermilk biscuits with maple gravy, and fresh breakfast pastries, alongside a champagne wall and mimosa cart to clink cheers.
The Thompson Spa will be offering special Mother’s Day treatments throughout the month of May, so that children can treat their mothers to the ultimate day of relaxation. Treatments for mom include a “Spring Goddess Glow Package” with a green tea firming body treatment and 50-minute massage, a “Royal Rose Package” with a deeply nourishing facial and body treatment, and a “Love Yourself Peppermint Mani-Pedi.” The full spa menu is available here.
** Bakery Lorraine **
Bakery Lorraine has special treats that will be sure to make any mother feel appreciated on this special day.
For lovers of flowers and sweet treats, Bakery Lorraine is excited to offer a petite bouquet with a box of 6 Parisian macarons, perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day. The Macarons — whose flavors include Triple Vanilla, Pistachio, and Raspberry — will be elegantly stored in a unique and limited time floral box. This special offer can be purchased for $50 online through the Bakery Lorraine website or in store (all stores except the Doseum location in San Antonio).
The last day to order one of these bouquets and macarons will be on Thursday, May 9. Each order is available for pickup at the Bakery Lorraine location of choice between 10a.m. and 6p.m. on Saturday, May 11, or Sunday, May 12, 2024.
In addition to pre-orders, Bakery Lorraine is hosting a small make your own Mother’s Day Card at all locations (except Doseum in San Antonio) from 2p.m. to close on Thursday, May 9. This is a free event that will be available while supplies last. Additionally, guests in San Antonio can visit Bakery Lorraine at Pearl on Saturday, May 11 for a flower shop pop-up to purchase locally made bouquets.
** Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa **
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, the recently opened Autograph Collection hotel in downtown, is pleased to announce its Mother’s Day (May 12) offerings to pamper moms this season. Bridging Downtown and Southtown neighborhoods, the Plaza San Antonio’s lush garden oasis and reimagined environment is a sanctuary of connectivity with extraordinary cuisine, culture, creativity, and community. Mom can enjoy an onsite garden oasis bar, pool, spa, and a lively restaurant with honest food and drinks ranging from hearty to healthy. Below is a breakdown of the specials available for Mother’s Day.
Nestled within the historic grounds of San Antonio’s only Autograph Collection Hotel, The Spa Plaza San Antonio offers a restorative approach to health and wellness. To help pamper moms, local or visiting, the hotel will offer several limited-time treatment packages at its luxurious spa. All the treatments can be booked through the Spa’s website and are included below:
Side-by-Side Mani Pedi – $200
Side-by-Side Massage – $350
Treat Yourself – $150
In addition to the unique offerings at the hotel’s Spa, guests can also celebrate mom and elevate the day with a brunch feast at Corinne San Antonio. With a modern, comfortable design and refreshing menu that offers a new take on San Antonio dining, Corinne provides a perfect place to gather for Mother’s Day. The Brunch menu includes Chorizo Devilled Eggs, Mezcal Shrimp Cocktail, Sweet Corn Cake Eggs Benedict, Lump Crab Frittata, and more.
To cap off the delightful brunch, guests can then head over to Anaqua Garden Bar for a celebratory drink with mom. Anaqua Garden Bar is a hidden gem located in the heart of Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa’s garden oasis. Inspired and named after the property’s champion Anaqua tree, this garden bar features a menu highlighting the fusion of Japanese flavors with Latin tradition, botanical cocktails, lush seating and a curated soundtrack to create a chill Zen oasis to celebrate mom.
Limited Time Specialty Spa Treatments: Valid Wednesday, May 1, 2024 through Friday, May 31, 2024* during Spa operating hours *Excluding Memorial Day weekend (May 25-27)
Corinne San Antonio Sunday Brunch Hours: 7a.m. – 2p.m.
Anaqua Garden Bar Sunday Hours: 11a.m. – 10p.m.
The Spa Plaza San Antonio & Corinne San Antonio 555 S Alamo St San Antonio, TX 78205
Valet parking is available at the hotel at $15 for three hours.
** Children’s Ballet of San Antonio **
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) invites you to a magical ball you don’t want to miss. The company will bring to life the classic Cinderella, the timeless love story, complete with a wicked stepmother, clumsy stepsisters, a fairy-godmother, and of course a handsome prince. Experience an enchanting performance for the whole family with opulent costumes, dreamlike digital and physical scenery and award-winning performers and choreographers, all set to the soaring score by Sergei Prokofiev. Taking place at the stunning Majestic Theatre on May 10 and 11, Cinderella is a dream come true that is sure to awaken child-like wonder in all ages.
A talented cast of roughly 200 young CBSA artists, ages 3-19, present this romantic fairy tale as only the Children’s Ballet can. The audience will be swept away by original Disney ballads such as “So This is Love” performed through stunning ballet artistry and incredible vocal talent transforming Cinderella into an avant-garde fairy tale classic. Classical ballet combined with an eclectic mix of awe-inspiring aerial acrobatics, hip-hop, and gymnastics create an exciting 90-minute production that will transfix even the youngest audience members.
Guests are encouraged to don their finest frocks, present their prettiest princess dresses, or come as a quinceañera queen to make it a truly magical affair to remember. Upon arrival, guests can take photos with the cast and even purchase tiaras, tutus, and fairy wands on-site! All audience members are sure to be wowed by the venue: downtown’s stunning Majestic Theatre. It’s the perfect place for a Cinderella story fit for a princess.
The Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205
Friday May 10, 6p.m. doors, 7p.m. show Saturday May 11, 1p.m. doors, 2p.m. show Saturday May 11, 6p.m. doors, 7p.m. show Tickets are available on the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio website.
Christmas comes early for young performers with The Children’s Nutcracker open auditions. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA)will hold open auditions for The Children’s Nutcracker at the Dance Center of San Antonio on Saturday, August 26, from 10:30a.m. – 6p.m. All performers, ages 3-19 are invited to register online for an audition time. The Children’s Nutcracker is looking for ballet, tap, folklorico, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary dancers, along with gymnasts, actors, and vocalists. Performers with special needs are encouraged to attend a more relaxed audition on Friday, August 25, from 5:30p.m. – 6p.m. All performers will be cast in roles that showcase and highlight their individual talents and strengths and allow them to shine brighter than the Christmas star. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2023)
The Children’s Nutcracker is a classic, beloved holiday tradition that features all the enchantment, joy, and wonder synonymous with this timeless tale. From fighting mice to fairies, soldiers to snow queens, the show takes audiences on an adventure where holiday dreams do come true. Taking place at the Lila Cockrell Theatre on December 8 and 9, this world-class production pulls out all the stops for a holiday extravaganza the whole family will enjoy. From a pre-show holiday market to spectacular digital and physical scenery, captivating special effects, and interactive elements, The Children’s Nutcracker is the perfect way for families to kick off the holidays and capture the magic of the season.
The Children’s Nutcracker 2023 offers young performers the chance to train with the best of the best, from Master Ballet Teachers to internationally acclaimed choreographers. This year, performers will be able to work with Nutcracker experts Aliaksandra Krukava and Nurlan Kinerbayev from the world-renowned Vaganova method of Russian Ballet. This is the same prestigious method that has turned out such household names as Mikhail Baryshnikov, Rudolf Nureyev, and Anna Pavlova, to name a few.
The dynamic Russian duo will be on hand this year to help with staging, exposing both the performers and the audience to the most authentic experience. Performers will also have the unique opportunity to work with Vanessa Bessler, former Prima Ballerina and founder of CBSA. Through recognition, awards, and scholarships from the most prestigious ballet competitions and schools in the world for many of its dancers, CBSA has elevated San Antonio to the world stage, making it a strong player in the performing arts world.
Awards and accolades aside, CBSA is the only professional-level dance company in Texas to offer lead roles to dancers as young as eight years old. Designed to bridge the gap between young students and professional dancers, it is a gateway for young artists interested in pursuing a professional dance career, pointing their toes in the right direction.
Dance Center of San Antonio 126 W. Rector, Suite 120 San Antonio, TX 78216
Auditions: Friday August 25, 5:30p.m. – 6p.m. for special needs performers Saturday August 26, 10:30a.m. – 6p.m. for general auditions All students must register to secure audition time.
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 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. 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.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents The Children’s Nutcracker and Holiday Market, a magical holiday extravaganza. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
An enchanting tale filled with all the magic of the holidays, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker has been captivating the hearts and minds of audiences for decades. This timeless story of a young girl whose beloved doll comes to life and takes her on wonderous journey has inspired many a young dancer to take the stage and has fostered a love of the arts in the young, and young at heart. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2022)
This year, the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio will return to the Lila Cockrell Theatre to present a Broadway level production of this favorite holiday family tradition. Combining immersive and interactive elements each performance is an event that includes shopping, sweets, and Santa. With a condensed 1.5 hour run time, it will keep event the youngest theatregoers engaged.
The fun starts from the moment guests enter the theatre and discover themselves in a festive holiday market where they can browse the extensive selection of dress-up items, including tutus and Sugarplum Fairy wands, Mouse King swords, as well as home décor including ornaments and, of course, nutcrackers. Hair and makeup stylists will be on site to offer magical makeovers transforming little ones into regal royals for a glittering good time. Key cast members from princes to queens, and fairies, along with Santa himself, will be on hand for photos on a first come first served basis. Because no holiday is complete without treats, there will be plenty of holiday fare including cocoa, holiday cookies and other seasonal favorites along with hot dogs, mini-burgers, and popcorn.
Award-winning dancers and a talented array of young performers share the stage for this production filled with dazzling costumes, multimedia integrated scenery, and even an interactive surprise or two for the audience members. More than just ballet, The Nutcracker celebrates the traditional dances of cultures around the world, showcasing a variety of disciplines and talents including vocalists, actors, gymnasts, special needs artists and more. CBSA founder and former Prima Ballerina Vanessa Bessler, leads the talented youth who range in age from 3-19 and include internationally acclaimed classical dancers alongside gifted special needs artists. A seven-time Youth America Grand Prix Outstanding Teacher Award winner, Bessler created CBSA to serve as a gateway for young artists interested in pursuing a professional dance career. The elite artists have had the privilege to train in some of the world’s best academies including 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. Through recognition, awards, and scholarships from the most prestigious ballet competitions and schools in the world for many of its dancers, CBSA has elevated San Antonio to the world stage, making it a strong player in the arts world.
Friday, December 9, 7p.m. Saturday, December 10, 2p.m. Saturday, December 10, 7p.m. Holiday Market and Photos with Santa and cast opens one hour prior to showtime.
The Lila Cockrell Theatre 200 E. Market Street San Antonio, TX 78205 Tickets are available online.
Admission proceeds and holiday market profits directly benefit CBSA in fulfilling its mission 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. Donations from the event will benefit dance scholarships for special needs and underserved youth, as well as the transportation and organization of several hundred Title 1 school students to attend each performance. Funds also go to the production costs of theatre, costumes, lights, and special effects that allow these dancers to perform in San Antonio’s top theatres in professional productions as part of their professional level training.
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.
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.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is hosting auditions on Saturday August 27, 2022. Photo: The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is searching for San Antonio’s most talented vocalists, dancers (ballet, tap, folklorico, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary), gymnasts, actors, performing artists, and special needs artists ages 3-19 as they host auditions for the Children’s Nutcracker on Saturday, August 27, 2022. Young artists will have a chance to train with the best of the best and perform in this spectacular professional level production at the grand Lila Cockrell Theatre. The production combines the cherished, traditional holiday ballet with Broadway style musical theatre, showcasing multidisciplinary art to include singing, dancing, acting and more. (The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2022)
The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is holding open auditions for The Children’s Nutcracker at the Dance Center of San Antonio on Saturday, August 27, from 12p.m. – 6p.m. Dancers from various disciplines including ballet, tap, folklorico, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary along with gymnasts, actors, vocalists, and performing artists ages 3-19, including those with special needs, are invited to register for an audition time online. All performers will be cast in roles that showcase and highlight their individual talents and strengths and allow them to shine.
The Children’s Nutcracker has become a beloved holiday tradition filled with all the joyful sights and sounds that fans have come to know and love. Taking place at the Lila Cockrell Theatre, on December 9 and 10, this world-class production will have something for the whole family. From a pre-show holiday market to spectacular digital and physical scenery, captivating special effects and interactive elements, The Children’s Nutcracker is designed to make spirits merry and bright.
The Children’s Nutcracker 2022 offers young performers the chance to train with the best of the best, from Master Ballet Teachers to internationally acclaimed dance artist and choreographer David Bagley. Bagley has had the honor of training with over 80 acclaimed dance institutions throughout the world, working alongside celebrities such as Sandra Bullock, Jerry Lewis, Twenty One Pilots, and more. Performers will also have the unique opportunity to work with Vanessa Bessler, former Prima Ballerina, and founder of CBSA. Bessler, who has earned the Youth America Grand Prix Outstanding Teacher Award for the past seven consecutive years, is world-renowned for discovering and cultivating young, local talent. Under her tutelage, these elite artists have had the privilege to train in some of the world’s best academies including 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. Through recognition, awards, and scholarships from the most prestigious ballet competitions and schools in the world for many of its dancers, CBSA has elevated San Antonio to the world stage, making it a strong player in the performing arts world.
Awards and accolades aside, what sets CBSA apart is that it is the only professional-level dance company in Texas to offer lead roles to dancers as young as eight-years-old. Designed to bridge the gap between young students and professional dancers, it serves as a gateway for young artists interested in pursuing a professional dance career, pointing their toes in the right direction.
Dance Center of San Antonio 126 W. Rector, Suite 120 San Antonio, TX 78216
Aladdin dancers at Estancia del Norte. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.
A poor young man, a beautiful princess, a wealthy Sultan, a powerful sorcerer, and a magical genie come together on stage in the enchanting, exotic adventure that is the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s debut production of ‘Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp’ at the Majestic Theatre. Set against the mystical background of the Arabian city of Agrabah, the ballet tells the story of Aladdin and how his quest for self-discovery ultimately becomes an adventure in true love. From flying carpets to other big surprises, this debut production will take audiences on a journey to far-off lands where wishes do come true. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2022)
Based on one of the most famous folktales from “The Book of One Thousand and One Nights,” the show features all the splendor and richness of the culture. Award-winning CBSA founder and artistic director Vanessa Bessler spent countless hours researching and immersing herself in all the details to provide the most authentic production for her audiences. The show will feature a combination of the classic Disney orchestral scores audiences loved from Aladdin, along with original live scores created specifically for CBSA by local French Lebanese composer Gabriel Nohra. Using traditional Arabic instruments including the Oud, Bendir, Darbuka, and Kanun, Nohra provides the musical backdrop for the talented array of young performers to showcase their skills. Award-winning choreographers Bessler and Nick Fearon, along with Feleacia Quezergue have created spectacular numbers that highlight the abilities of each dancer while integrating traditional numbers choreographed by Karen Barbee, who specializes in the cultural dances of the land of Aladdin. It is the perfect combination of culture and creativity, enhanced by the dazzling costumes brought in from London, Moscow, and the Far East. The final effect will cause the audience’s hearts to soar—no magic carpet required.
Featuring performers ranging from internationally acclaimed classical dancers to gifted special needs artists ages 3-19, the production showcases a variety of disciplines and talents. Award-winning dancers including hip-hop, jazz, tap, and contemporary will take the stage with a talented array of young performers including actors, musicians, gymnasts, and singers for this larger-than-life production. Leading this talented cast is founder and former Prima Ballerina and seven-time Youth America Grand Prix Outstanding Teacher Award winner Vanessa Bessler. Under her watchful eye, CBSA has become a gateway for young artists interested in pursuing a professional dance career. The elite artists have had the privilege to train in some of the world’s best academies including 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. Through recognition, awards, and scholarships from the most prestigious ballet competitions and schools in the world for many of its dancers, CBSA has elevated San Antonio to the world stage, making it a strong player in the arts world.
Performance dates and times Friday, May 6, 7p.m. to 9p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2p.m. to 4p.m. Saturday, May 7, 7p.m. to 9p.m.
The Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205 Tickets are available on the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio website.
Admission proceeds directly benefit CBSA in fulfilling its mission 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. Donations from the event will benefit dance scholarships for special needs and underserved youth, as well as the transportation and organization of several hundred Title 1 school students to attend each performance. Funds also go to the production costs of theatre, costumes, lights, and special effects that allow these dancers to perform in San Antonio’s top theatres in professional productions as part of their professional-level training.
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. 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.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antoniois searching for San Antonio’s most talented dancers, gymnasts, actors, performing artists and special needs artists ages 3-19 as they host auditions for ‘Aladdin’ on Saturday, January 22, 2022. Young artists will have a chance to train with the best of the best in San Antonio and perform in this spectacular professional level production at the beautiful Majestic Theatre. This spring production marks the first time CBSA has brought ‘Aladdin’ to the stage and it promises to be an extraordinary experience for all. (The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2022)
Genies are not the only ones who can make wishes come true. The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA), has been in the business of wish-granting for almost seven years, turning young performers’ dreams of taking center stage into a reality. This year, the company is holding open auditions for Aladdin 2022 at the Dance Center of San Antonio on Saturday, January 22, from 12:30p.m. to 5p.m. All dancers, gymnasts, actors, and performing artists ages 3-19, including those with special needs, are invited to register for an audition time online.All performers will be cast in roles that highlight and highlight their individual talents and strengths and allow them to soar—–no magic carpet required.
‘Aladdin 2022’ is a brand-new production for CBSA, and it promises to be filled with all the magical sights and sounds that fans of the original have come to know and love. Taking place at the Majestic Theater, on May 6 and 7, this world-class production will have something for the whole family. From spectacular digital and physical scenery to grand special effects, live music, and interactive elements, it will expose audience members to a whole new world.
‘Aladdin 2022’ offers young performers the chance to train with the best of the best from Master Ballet Teachers to the most talented local choreographers. They will also have the unique opportunity to work with Vanessa Bessler, former Prima Ballerina, and founder of CBSA. Bessler, who has earned the Youth America Grand Prix Outstanding Teacher Award for the past seven consecutive years, is world-renowned for discovering and cultivating young, local talent. Under her guidance, these elite artists have had the privilege to train in some of the world’s best academies including 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. Through recognition, awards, and scholarships from the most prestigious ballet competitions and schools in the world for many of its dancers, CBSA has elevated San Antonio to the world stage, making it a strong player in the performing arts world.
Awards and accolades aside, what sets CBSA apart is that it is the only professional-level dance company in Texas to offer lead roles to dancers as young as eight-years-old. Designed to bridge the gap between young students and professional dancers, it serves as a gateway for young artists interested in pursuing a professional dance career, pointing their toes in the right direction.
Dance Center of San Antonio 126 W. Rector, Suite 120 San Antonio, TX 78216
The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is an authentic, professional-level ballet company that produces professionally staged productions highlighting 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. 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.
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