Every December, crowds descend upon the Carolina Theatre as a new generation arrives to be entertained and enchanted by the Greensboro Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker. As the lights dim and the music begins, audience members of all ages are reminded of the enduring magic of this show. For some, it’s a new experience; for others, it’s their family’s yearly tradition to usher in the holiday season.
The Greensboro Ballet—known by this name since the early 1990s—was originally founded in the 1960s as the Civic Ballet of Greensboro and became a nonprofit in 1967. Its first production of The Nutcracker debuted in the mid-1980s, and the Carolina Theatre has served as its consistent performance home since the late 2000s. Over time, the organization has evolved into the respected arts institution it is today.
Executive Director Jennifer Gentry has devoted more than three decades to the Greensboro Ballet, beginning as a teacher before stepping into leadership in 2019. “We’ve been proud to survive and thrive through decades of change,” says Jennifer. Meanwhile Artistic Director Christine Grider, now in her fourth season, brings a fresh yet reverent energy to the production. A former dancer and seasoned arts administrator, she was hired in 2022 following a national search.
“I was stunned by the level of community support for the arts in Greensboro—it’s far beyond what I’ve seen in other cities,” Christine says. “The Nutcracker is a beloved holiday classic, but here, it’s the people in Greensboro who make this such a fast tradition.”
Balancing tradition with modern sensibilities is part of the Greensboro Ballet’s creative mission. “There are certain elements you can’t tamper with,” Christine explains, “but I also look for ways to keep the production culturally relevant.” From introducing hip-hop dancer Dom Sebastian Alexis in the role of Uncle Drosselmeyer to reimagining choreography as the students’ technical skills evolve, she continues to find new ways to keep the performance dynamic and inclusive.
The Greensboro Ballet’s Nutcracker includes 60 performers, from young students to professionals. This includes children as young as eight in addition to seasoned guest dancers—like former New York City Ballet soloist Megan LeCrone. Many adults, including local parents and community members, participate for the joy of being part of something special.
“I think The Nutcracker brings nostalgia of old Christmas and family and getting together. There’s something magical about it,” says Jennifer. Carrying that magic beyond the stage, each year the Ballet also hosts “Tea with Clara,” a cherished fundraising and interactive event that invites young fans to learn a short dance from the production and meet the characters. It’s a wonderful way to bring the audience into the joy and enchantment.
Even as the company grows, preservation remains a focus. Christine has launched a multi-year costume refurbishment project, beginning with replacing the iconic snowflake costumes. The goal is to ensure that the performance attire can continue to enchant audiences for many more seasons.
Both leaders agree: while the sets, costumes, and dancers may evolve, the heart of The Nutcracker—and of Greensboro Ballet itself—remains constant. It’s about connection, tradition, and the shared joy that comes when art and community dance together in perfect harmony.
The Greensboro Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker will run Dec. 11-14 at the Carolina Theatre of Greensboro. Learn more and purchase tickets: https://carolinatheatre.com/event/greensboro-ballet-the-nutcracker/
"The Nutcracker brings nostalgia of old Christmas. There's something magical about it."