Minnesota Dance Theatre’s mission is to inspire and challenge students to achieve
their best through dance classes designed to nurture each child’s artistry and self-confidence. The CAN Dance program aims to expand access to high-caliber classical and contemporary dance performance and training by offering professional performances, in-classroom workshops, and dance and movement camps free of cost to students ages 7 to 10.
In September of each new school year, MDT invites second and third grade students from more than 20 Minneapolis Public Schools to attend a free performance of Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy, a beloved Minnesota holiday tradition. Each December, up to 1,500 students have the unique opportunity to experience dance theatre and live music at Minneapolis’ historic State Theatre, where conductor Philip Brunelle leads a 44-piece orchestra and a cast of over 90 professional, guest, and student dancers through a magical production.
Students who show interest and improvement during the two-week summer program are invited to enter MDT’s Young Children’s Division or Performing Arts Division on a full merit scholarship. MDT asks students and their families to commit to the program for the full academic year, during which students are given opportunities to perform in the MDT school’s annual spring student showcase and in Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy, coming full circle.
Founded in 1962, Minnesota Dance Theatre is an acclaimed dance company and school based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.