Biography: Mary Van Dyke serves as the Artistic Director for CBT and co-director of the CBT Nutcracker. Her background includes leading a Russian/Ballet-focused school lineage in Chicago before returning to Memphis to cultivate ballet education and performance at CBT. Under her guidance, CBT emphasizes a strong classical foundation with Vaganova-informed technique, while also embracing diverse styles through programming that includes musical theatre, modern, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and vocal elements.
Discipline and training are at the core of CBT’s approach, with dancers gaining performance experience across classical ballet productions and community-focused initiatives. In addition to its own productions, CBT participates in Nutcracker collaborations with the Tennessee Ballet Theater, where CBT dancers share the stage with professional company artists, enriching the festive season with a dynamic, cross-company experience.
Discography Highlights: CBT does not release commercial recordings as a primary focus; rather, its legacy is preserved through compelling live performances and key collaborations such as Nutcracker productions. Expect highlights to include ensemble ballets, pas de deux, and character works drawn from classical repertoire, interpreted through CBT’s distinctive Vaganova-influenced technique and expressive storytelling.
Upcoming Tour/Performance Information: The CBT Nutcracker collaboration with Tennessee Ballet Theater will feature the CBT student company in performances titled Clara & the Nutcracker, produced by Tennessee Ballet Theater. The 2025 production is scheduled for December 6-7, 2025, at the Mike D. Rose Theatre, University of Memphis, with showtimes Saturday at 5:30 PM and Sunday at 2:00 PM. Local press coverage from ActionNews5 and Memphis Flyer confirms the venue and dates. For the latest CBT performance updates and tour info, follow CBT on social media and check our event listings regularly.
Social media and official resources: Instagram — @childrens.ballet.theater (official channel). For more information, visit the Tennessee Ballet Theater and University of Memphis venue pages, and follow the linked official outlets for the Nutcracker collaboration details. To stay informed about future tours, new programs, and ticket availability, rely on our easy, no-hassle booking process—like having a trusted friend in the business.