When we think of the holiday season, we often envision decorated Christmas trees or candles burning proudly in observance of Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. But no matter what you celebrate, there are universal hallmarks of winter you are bound to see around town: gifts, snow, reindeer, and of course, nutcrackers.
The latter of which holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Jena Minick-Bull, the owner and CEO of South Coast Conservatory. In 2002, Minick-Bull took over the conservatory, combining her passions for education, business, and artistry, attempting to create “Something dedicated towards assembling people together.” As a gifted dancer herself, Jena has been overseeing, teaching, and coordinating dancers as they perform ‘The Nutcracker’ on stage.
Jena sees the arts as a form of expression and therapy, and she’s aware of the power dance holds— and, unfortunately, how inaccessible it often is. Throughout her time at South Coast Conservatory, Minick-Bull has devoted herself to making dance more accessible for both students and instructors. She cherishes the individuality of her students and provides five program tracks, geared towards different age ranges, proficiency, and interests. For those unable to gain traditional access to the prestigious conservatory, Jena founded the Dance Discovery Foundation in 2020. The foundation gives underserved students the opportunity to express themselves through dance, without having to leave campus or fall further into economic instability. While instructors teach in over sixty schools and, of course, at their on-site location, Minick-Bull also uses the foundation to grant scholarships to talented dancers, having spent fifty thousand dollars this year already.
Formerly a dance instructor, Jena also knows the importance of stability for her staff. She emphasizes teamship rather than traditional hierarchies to ensure everyone has a chance to be heard. Her concern extends to the financial stability of her instructors as well. As Minick-Bull explained, “My mission has been… to provide careers, not gig work.”
The hard work and endless dedication of Jena, her staff, and students culminate each winter into creating the magical spectacle so near and dear to their hearts: ‘The Nutcracker’.
Recently celebrating its 100th birthday, this ballet features timeless, seasonal music while weaving a story of tradition, family, and magic. From December fourteenth through the twenty-first, South Coast Conservatory’s cast, composed of young dancers, will dress in whimsical costumes and decorate their stage with beautiful scenery, Christmas trees, snow, and, of course, nutcrackers.
Regardless of the holiday you celebrate, whether you will be lighting candles, hanging stockings, or simply toasting to the gift of life, South Coast Conservatory welcomes “Anyone that’s ever thought, ‘what if the holidays became a bit more magical?’” to come witness their breathtaking rendition of The Nutcracker.