Pasadena Dance Theatre

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

December 20th, 7:30pm
December 21st, 2:00pm & 7:00pm
December 22nd, 2:00pm

FEATURING:

~ Guest Artists Matisse Love & Aaron Smythe
~ Pasadena Chorale "The High Notes"
~ U.S. National Men's Four Acro Gymnastics Team
~ Chinese Dragons
~ PDT Conservatory Students

Click for tickets!
https://ci.ovationtix.com/36849/production/1217509

🔥It's time for another PDT Faculty highlight!!🔥

Julia Ortega trained at the School of Arts in Holguin, Cuba, and the School of the Ballet Nacional de Cuba. She danced with the Ballet de Camaguey and the Ballet Nacional de Cuba, rising to the rank of soloist under the direction of Alicia Alonso. In 1989, she was named gold medalist in the International Ballet Competition in Peru. Julia became a member of the Cleveland Ballet in 1992, performing a variety of Dennis Nahat's works as a principal dancer, including the premiere of Blue Suede Shoes. She has performed the lead female roles in classical and contemporary pieces, including Giselle, Swan Lake, Don Quixote, Le Corsaire, Paquita, Sleeping Beauty, Who Cares?, Allegro Brillante, Romeo and Juliet, Serenade, Tarantella and Pasadena Dance Theatre's production of The Nutcracker. Julia has been a member of PDT's faculty since 1999.

It’s never too late to start your dance journey! 💫 Our Elementary Division is open for mid-semester registration. Perfect for little movers (ages 3+) ready to skip, jump, and dance their way into creativity! 🌟 Come play, learn, and grow with us!

Looking to stay active and inspired? Join Pasadena Dance Theatre’s open adult classes! Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned dancer, we offer all levels, so join us and strengthen, stretch, and dance with us in a welcoming and supportive environment. Drop-ins welcome!

Unlock your potential at Pasadena Dance Theatre's Conservatory! Our year-round program offers students expert instruction in ballet, modern, and , with a focus on proper alignment, strength, and progressive skill development. Taught by our renowned professional faculty, the curriculum builds upon each student’s growth, ensuring a strong foundation for more advanced movement. Join us ANYTIME during the year and commit to developing your artistry in a nurturing and dynamic environment!!

Leaping into Nutcracker!

✨ The enchanting world of The Nutcracker is on the horizon, and our dancers are ready to bring this beloved classic to life! 🩰 At Pasadena Dance Theatre, our programs cultivate creativity, passion, and technical skill, empowering students to express themselves through dance. Whether you're looking to explore new styles or deepen your technique, our inclusive classes nurture each dancer’s unique journey. 🎄🌟 Join us and be part of a community that celebrates the joy of dance!

✨ Faculty Spotlight ✨ Get to know our pre-ballet & creative movement teacher Noel Dilworth!

Noel comes from a background in rhythmic gymnastics, in which she competed individually for 10 years. She then transitioned into classical ballet, training at Contra Costa Ballet Centre in Northern California under the direction of Zola Dishong and Richard Cammack. Noel also trained around the country at the Maryland Youth Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet School, The Alvin Ailey School as part of the BFA program with Fordham University, and North Carolina Dance Theatre (now Charlotte Ballet) as an apprentice before joining the second company. She has also danced professionally as part of ARC Dance Seattle, San Diego Opera, Los Angeles Opera, and Pasadena Dance Theatre. Noel holds a BFA in Dance Performance from UC Irvine, and is 400hr pilates certified from Studio Du Corps in Orange County. She has been teaching ballet for 10 years and enjoys mentoring the next generations of dancers.

PDT ALUMNA SPOTLIGHT- STELLA ABRERA!

Stella Abrera grew up in South Pasadena, California, and began ballet studies at five. In 1996, after winning the gold medal at the Adeline Genée Awards, she joined American Ballet Theatre’s corps de ballet. Promoted to Soloist in 2001 and Principal Dancer in 2015, Abrera’s 24-year career at ABT included leading roles in The Sleeping Beauty, Onegin, Cinderella, Giselle, and Romeo and Juliet. She worked with choreographers like Frederick Ashton, George Balanchine, Jiří Kylián, and Alexei Ratmansky, and created roles in ballets by Mark Morris, Twyla Tharp, and Paul Taylor. Abrera became a repetiteur for Ratmansky, staging ballets for the Mariinsky Ballet, ABT, and ABT Studio Company. She retired from ABT in 2020 and became Artistic Director of Kaatsbaan Cultural Park, overseeing classes, performances, and artist residencies. She also founded Steps Forward for the Philippines, which rebuilt a school after Super Typhoon Haiyan, and cofounded Artists for Aveni to support cancer research. Abrera has guest danced with The Australian Ballet, Ballet Philippines, and others, and received awards including a California State Senate recognition (2015) and a Benois de la Danse nomination (2017). In 2021, her pointe shoes were featured in a Smithsonian White House exhibit honoring Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Abrera studied at Long Island University, completed Harvard University’s “Crossover into Business” program, and became Artistic Director of the ABT JKO School in 2023.

Images:
1 - PDT Nutcracker Arabian
2 - PDT Nutcracker Waltz of the Flowers
3 - Stella Abrera as Giselle in Giselle, shot by Rosalie O’Connor for

The magic of The Nutcracker returns to Pasadena Dance Theatre this December! Join us for a timeless holiday tradition featuring stunning choreography, enchanting costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Whether you're bringing family or friends, this is a must-see performance for all ages. Mark your calendars and experience the joy of the season with PDT’s Nutcracker at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse.

🎟️ Tickets on sale soon! 🎟️

Friday, Dec. 20 at 7:30pm
Saturday, Dec. 21 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm
Sunday, Dec.22 at 2:00pm
📍

If you haven't heard the news yet, Pasadena Dance Theatre has two new Artistic Directors!! We are so excited to have Jean Michelle Sayeg and Eric Shah leading us into the next era of PDT.

Jean Michelle is a PDT alum, and she is thrilled to return home and lead the next generation of young artists. Her performing experience includes Smuin Ballet, State Street Ballet, CATS: National Tour, LA Opera, among (many!) others. She has choreographed many mainstage musical productions at Arcadia Stage, as well as productions at Ensemble Theater Company, Antaeus Theatre Company, Interplayer’s Theatre, and Cape Academy of Performing Arts in South Africa.

Southern California Native, Eric Shah performed as a principal dancer for 20 years with Inland Pacific Ballet, where he also taught extensively. As a guest artist, Eric has performed with Seattle Opera, Arizona Opera, Opera Carolina, New Jersey Opera, and LA Opera. Eric is deeply committed to embedding somatic practices into his education with extensive training in Pilates, Gyrotonic, Rolfing Structural Integration, Craniosacral Therapy, Visceral Manipulation, and Somatic Experiencing.

Together, they aim to revitalize the legacy of PDT with their combined passion for both classical and contemporary dance!

✨SAVE THE DATES ✨ for this incredible duo's Nutcracker coming to the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse from December 20-22!

There's still room for you at the barre!! Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced dancer, our expert instructors are here to help you shine. Register now to be part of an inspiring season of dance and development. Let’s make this fall unforgettable—secure your place today! 🩰

Faculty Spotlight — Get to know our ballet teacher Jackie Pierce!

Jackie Pierce is a dancer, choreographer and educator residing in Los Angeles, CA. She is a graduate of University of California, Los Angeles World Arts and Cultures/Dance department. Originally from Orange County, CA, Jackie trained at the Maple Conservatory of Dance, studying classical ballet for over 10 years. She spent summers training at the School of American Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, American Repertory Ballet, and others. She attended Regional Dance America and Ballet Alliance festivals, where she received awards and scholarships as both a dancer and emerging choreographer. She then moved to New York to dance in the Professional Division of The Ailey School/Fordham University, where she expanded her repertoire to include a variety of modern and contemporary dance. At UCLA, Jackie performed in various faculty works, as well as choreographing and producing student concerts.

She currently is a company member of Nancy Evans Dance Theatre in Pasadena, CA, as well as a freelance dancer. In 2024, she was selected as a Dance Fellow at the Carmel Dance Festival, directed by Lillian Barbeito. She has performed in the work of Jose Limon, Javon “Ja’Moon” Jones, Ros Warby, Tina Bush, Rex Wheeler and more.

Jackie has been a dancer educator for six years. She teaches ballet and contemporary dance across a range of skill levels: from beginner foundations to both young and adult dancers all the way to advanced and professional dancers in open-class, conservatory and collegiate settings.
pierce

We are BEYOND thrilled to have as part of the PDT Conservatory curriculum this year!! Join us in welcomeing Arletta Anderson!
Arletta Anderson is a Los Angeles-based dance artist, performance maker, and educator. She received her degree in dance from Loyola Marymount University and has continued training throughout her time living in New York, the Bay Area, and her return to Los Angeles in 2019. Arletta has enjoyed a robust career as a freelance dancer, working with various choreographers and directors such as Gerald Casel, Detour Dance, Summation Dance, and Aura Fischbeck. She was a collaborator/performer in NYC-based choreographer Catherine Galasso’s Alone Together at ODC Theater in San Francisco, which was nominated for an Isadora Duncan award for Outstanding Achievement in Performance. She is currently performing in DaEun Jung’s touring project, NORRI, and with choreographer Kevin Williamson. Additionally, Arletta makes performance work in collaboration with writer/theater artist Adam Smith. Their work has been commissioned and presented by venues nationally. As an educator, Arletta has taught at University of San Francisco, Bowling Green University, Scripps College, UCLA, LMU, UC Riverside, University of Hawaii, among other studios and schools. Arletta is on faculty at Orange County School of the Arts, part of the Ground Grooves teaching staff, and guides yoga/movement classes for non-dancers.

Meet QURON CLARKS!!! Bringing Horton and many modern techniques PDT! A wonderful spirit in the studio! ♡
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Quron Clarks, hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas, found his passion for dance in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California. His journey began with formal training and blossomed at the renowned Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, where he graduated in the class of 2014. While complementing his education, Quron further honed his skills at the esteemed Lula Washington Dance Theatre School.

Expanding his horizons, Quron pursued higher education at the Institute of the Arts Barcelona in Spain, completing the institute's inaugural Bachelor's course in 2017. Throughout his academic journey, Quron showcased his talents by performing with five professional companies and undertaking various commercial projects.

Post-graduation, Clarks embarked on a maritime adventure, bringing his dancing prowess to Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Creative Studios. Despite his global exploits, Quron's heart led him back to Los Angeles to fulfill a lifelong dream of dancing with the Lula Washington Dance Theatre. In the spring of 2023, he concluded his time with the esteemed company as a Principal Dancer. Additionally, Quron frequently graces the stage as a guest artist with Bernard Brown/BB Moves.

Quron Clarks' multifaceted career has evolved into a fulfilling path of teaching and choreography. As a regular faculty member at the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, he imparts his knowledge and expertise. Quron's artistic footprint extends beyond, as he creates compelling works for schools throughout California,hoping to leave an indelible mark on the dance community.

Great moments in the studio ♡

🌟🩰 Happy Labor Day from PDT! 🩰🌟

Today, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of our incredible dance community. Enjoy the day off, and we look forward to seeing you back in the studio soon! 💪✨

🎄🩰 Save the Date: The Nutcracker 🩰🎄

Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season with Pasadena Dance Theatre’s spectacular production of The Nutcracker! Mark your calendars and join us for an enchanting performance:

📅 Friday, December 20th at 7:30 PM
📅 Saturday, December 21st at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM
📅 Sunday, December 22nd at 2:00 PM
📍 Location: San Gabriel Mission Playhouse

Don’t miss this beloved holiday tradition, reimagined by our new Artistic Directors, Jean Michelle Sayeg & Eric Shah. Stay tuned for ticket details and get ready to be swept away by the magic! 🌟✨

At PDT, we celebrate the art of dance through exceptional training, inspiring performances, and a vibrant community. Since 1958, we’ve been dedicated to nurturing talent and advancing the art form, from classical ballet to contemporary styles. Our programs cater to dancers of all ages and levels, offering unparalleled opportunities to grow and shine. Join us and be a part of our passionate dance family. Explore, create, and dance with us at Pasadena Dance Theatre

What an exciting Nutcracker audition filled with beautiful dancers! Let the season begin!

🎄🩰 Reminder: Nutcracker Auditions are TOMORROW! 🩰🎄

The big day is almost here!

Advanced Auditions: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
Children's Auditions: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

https://www.pasadenadancetheatre.org/other-events

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this magical holiday tradition!

🎄🩰 Reminder: Nutcracker Auditions Coming Up! 🩰🎄

Don’t forget to audition for our magical Nutcracker production! Advanced Students: August 24th, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Elementary Students: August 24th, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM at our studios!

https://www.pasadenadancetheatre.org/other-events

Sign up now and join us in creating holiday magic! 🌟✨

🍂🩰 Today’s the Day—Fall Classes Are Here! 🩰🍂

The wait is over, and we’re thrilled to kick off a new season of dance with you! Get ready for an inspiring year ahead. If you have any registration questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. We can’t wait to see you in the studio and start this amazing journey together!

🎉💃 Thank You for a Fantastic Summer! 💃🎉

We had an amazing time dancing this summer! A huge shoutout to our incredible dancers and warmest thanks for welcoming our new Artistic Directors, Jean Michelle Sayeg & Eric Shah, into the PDT family. Your energy and enthusiasm made this season unforgettable. Here’s to many more inspiring moments and joyful performances together! 🌟🩰

✨ Welcome to Pasadena Dance Theatre! ✨

Join us in celebrating diversity, inclusivity, and equality in dance! 🌟 Since 1958, we've been Pasadena's premier classical dance training hub, and we’re committed to expanding access to all, especially those traditionally underrepresented in ballet. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, our year-long Conservatory and Summer Intensive programs are for everyone—including adults! If you have a passion for dance, you belong at PDT. Let’s shape the future of ballet together! 🩰