Familiar notes of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker mark the beginning of the holiday season. For the Lake Houston area, that sound resonates at the Kingwood Ballet, a nonprofit pre-professional company dedicated to making the arts accessible and affordable for local community members.
Founded in 1984 by Cheryl Rowland, Kingwood Ballet, originally known as Kingwood Dance Theatre, was created to provide high-quality performances and meaningful opportunities for local dancers. Under the artistic direction of Kelly Agnew, the company has grown to include 60 dancers who train several days a week to bring world-class productions to the stage.
Each year, the Kingwood Ballet partners with Atascocita High School’s theater department to present its full-length production of The Nutcracker. Tickets start at just $25, making it possible for families and organizations across the area to enjoy a professional-level performance without leaving the local area avoiding Houston traffic and Downtown parking.
Beyond the stage, Kingwood Ballet’s dancers are active in the community they perform at events like Kingwood Country Club’s Children’s Night, Trunk or Treat at the Park, and participate with story time sessions at local libraries. These outreach efforts allow young dancers to share their love of the arts while inspiring others to see dance as something that belongs to everyone.
Each November, the company hosts its whimsical Sugar Plum Tea fundraiser at the Nathaniel Center. The event features a children’s salon, boutique, and mini performance known as The Nutcracker in a Nutshell, with proceeds supporting costumes, sets, and guest artists. In the spring, Kingwood Ballet returns to the stage with its Fairy Tale Ballet Series, rotating beloved stories like Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella, and Snow White.
Kingwood Ballet is also an Honor Company in Regional Dance America’s Southwest Region, giving students opportunities to earn national scholarships and perform at regional and national festivals.
“Dance opens doors for students. Regional Dance America holds that door open for those who might not have access to larger auditions,” Kelly says.
This year’s performances of The Nutcracker takes place December 6th and 7th at the Atascocita High School Performing Arts Theatre, featuring guest artist Jose Sebastian from the American Ballet Theatre. With the upgraded digital sets, animated snowfall, and stunning costumes, audiences can expect an enchanting, immersive, and professional-level experience for the whole family.