Kingwood Ballet schedules 42nd annual Nutcracker for December

Kingwood Ballet will present its 42nd annual production of The Nutcracker on Dec. 5 and 6. The nonprofit organization, located in Stacey’s Dance Studio in Kingwood, will feature its own students alongside professional dancers for the two-night run.

Co-director Kelly Agnew stated that the company aims to provide classical training and affordable performance opportunities for the local community. The organization was founded in 1984 as Kingwood Dance Theater by Sheryl Rowland, who wanted to offer professional-level shows at lower prices than typical commercial productions.

The company is currently co-directed by Agnew, Trish King, Anoushka Miranda, and Kerri Hawk. They teach children ages 5 to 18 in classical ballet, technique, pointe, yoga, and contemporary dance. Agnew noted that the curriculum builds life skills such as determination and resilience, regardless of whether a student pursues a professional career.

Agnew described the practice environment as one where students learn to persist through physical challenges. She recalled seeing students fall during class and immediately asking them to stand up and try again. She called these moments small life lessons that occur within a 90-minute class.

Anoushka Miranda highlighted the social benefits of the program, noting that students form strong bonds with classmates. She pointed out that the studio maintains a phone-free environment, which helps students enjoy their time at the location.

The company plans to perform The Little Mermaid for the first time during its spring season as part of its annual storybook shows. It also holds several community performances and fundraisers during the winter and spring months.

Directors are seeking volunteers to assist with costume creation, lighting, and set painting for upcoming shows. The organization also encourages community support through events like the Sugar Plum Tea and the Ballet Gala. Agnew acknowledged that ballet is an old-fashioned art form, and the company works to keep the performances current and entertaining for modern audiences.