Nashville Ballet is returning a beloved classic to the stage with Paul Vasterling’s The Sleeping Beauty at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Jackson Hall. The timeless tale will enchant audiences of all ages on Feb. 22 at 2 PM and 7:30 PM, as well as Feb. 23 at 2 PM. Tickets are on sale now and are expected to sell out quickly, so don’t wait to secure your spot for an unforgettable performance!
This production promises to be a magical experience, with Vasterling’s choreography drawing inspiration from Marius Petipa’s iconic work, paired with the soaring sounds of Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score. Accompanied by The Nashville Symphony, The Sleeping Beauty immerses audiences in a world of love, triumph, and fairytale magic, all while showcasing some of Nashville Ballet’s finest talent.
The story follows Princess Aurora’s journey from the depths of a cursed slumber to the sweet awakening kiss that ends her enchantment. As the tale unfolds, themes of true love and redemption take center stage, reminding us of the eternal power of love. Last presented by Nashville Ballet in 2017, this year’s production will offer a fresh visual experience, featuring stunning sets and costumes from Cincinnati Ballet that will transport audiences to a fantastical realm of beauty.
Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet, reflects on the grand nature of this production: “Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty is a masterpiece of composition, challenging even the most seasoned dancer,” he says. “We are grateful that an artist like Nicolas Scheuer has set the bar so high, and shown the path for our young artists to step forward in the future. This year we will see many debuts, including Colette Tilinski and Jamie Kopit in the role of Aurora. Our Nashville audience will be astounded by how far their ballet company has evolved since the last time we did this production.”
The principal dancers are set to shine in their roles, with standout performances by:
- Jamie Kopit as Princess Aurora (Saturday evening show)
- Claudia Monja as the Lilac Fairy (all shows)
- Nicolas Scheuer as Prince Desire (both matinee shows)
- Brett Sjoblom as Prince Desire (Saturday evening show)
- Owen Thorne as Carabosse (all shows)
- Colette Tilinski as Princess Aurora (both matinee shows)
- Katie Vasilopoulos as the Queen (both matinee shows)
In addition to the incredible company dancers, The Sleeping Beauty will also feature around 50 youth cast members from the School of Nashville Ballet and Rejoice School of Ballet, including children as young as 6 years old (the youngest ever to perform in any of Nashville Ballet’s productions).
The performances will also mark a bittersweet farewell for Company Artist Nicolas Scheuer, who will be concluding his 13-year career with the company. Scheuer first joined Nashville Ballet in 2012 and made his debut in The Sleeping Beauty as an apprentice. He later returned as Prince Desire in 2017, his first full-length principal role. After a distinguished career that includes performances in other major roles such as Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake and the Sugar Plum Cavalier in The Nutcracker, Scheuer will take his final bow as Prince Desire in the Sunday matinee, performing alongside Colette Tilinski as Princess Aurora.
Katie Vasilopoulos, Nashville Ballet’s Director of Artistic Operations and Strategy is also returning to the stage after a short retirement to take on the role of the Queen in the two matinee performances. Vasilopoulos has a long history with the company, having joined in 2008 and progressed to the main company in 2012. Over her 13 years with Nashville Ballet, she has originated numerous roles, including the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella and the Lilac Fairy in The Sleeping Beauty, making her return a truly special moment for the company.
With its breathtaking choreography, captivating storyline, and extraordinary cast, The Sleeping Beauty promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime performance. Make sure to get your tickets soon! This fairytale event is sure to sell out quickly, and you won’t want to miss it!
For tickets and more information, visit Nashville Ballet’s website.
