Frequently Asked Questions

How old is James Sewell?

James is 46; he was born on June 24, 1961.

How can I audition for your company?

With an ensemble of eight dancers, we have few hiring opportunities. We hold auditions as needed. Click here to learn of any auditions that may be scheduled. Please do not send us unsolicited resumes, photos, and videos.

What dance classes do you offer?

The Twin Cities area has many good dance schools and James Sewell Ballet does not operate its own. We do, however, offer workshops and open company classes on occasion. Click here to see what, if any, classes are being offered currently.

I am a composer, designer, or author. How can I work with your company?

We appreciate your interest. We always are open to learning about new people and ideas. Please understand, however, that we receive more good offers each year than we can use in five years. Have patience above all else. Send us a simple letter or email stating your interest and give us some time to acknowledge receipt.

How many weeks do your dancers work?

For the 2007-08 season, our dancers will work full-time for 29 non-consecutive weeks between late August and early May. Relative to many other ballet companies, our dancers spend a lot of time on stage and perform in most of the ballets scheduled for every performance.

Would you ever consider performing in (name a community) ?

We consider all invitations extended to us. Please contact our office in Minneapolis at 612.672.0480.

Will you ever perform the full-length, classical ballets?

James Sewell Ballet’s mission is to create and perform works that connect artists with audiences and to advance contemporary ballet. We view ballet as a living art form. Our dancers are trained in the classical tradition as a starting point to express the designs of living choreographers.

Will you present a “Nutcracker”?

In spite of the wonderful story and cherished tradition, the world does not need another “Nutcracker.” As an alternative, we present “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” a story whose themes of faith, forgiveness, healing, and compassion are common to the world’s faith traditions and represent the soul of the holiday season.

I have heard that ballet pointe shoes are expensive. How much does a pair cost?

Between $65 and $75 a pair. We spent $3,300 in fiscal 2006; we budgeted $3,700 for 2007.

Who takes your photographs?

We have worked with a number of photographers over the years. The great majority of our photos have been taken by Erik Saulitis.

How much would it cost to sponsor or commission a new ballet?

About $30,000-$75,000, including creation, rehearsal, and costumes.

How much would it cost to sponsor a dancer for a year?

About $28,000 this year.

What is James Sewell Ballet’s annual budget?

$706,500 for the fiscal year July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008. Click here for more budget information.

Why do you ask people to contribute money to James Sewell Ballet?

The income from ticket sales and other performing services does not cover our costs of operation.

How much money needs to be contributed this year?

About $481,500 – 68% of our budget. We are recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization, and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Click here to learn how you can help!

What is the Minnesota Shubert Center?

The Shubert Center is a major, strategic arts initiative in downtown Minneapolis. The three-building, $37 million complex will create Minnesota’s first performance venue designed for dance.

Where did James Sewell attend elementary school?

James started at Brimhall Elementary in Roseville, Minnesota, and switched to Hiawatha Elementary in Minneapolis, beginning in third grade.

Where can I learn more about James Sewell Ballet?

Explore this website. We have designed this internet presence with a good deal of thought and you will find a large amount of detail hidden in the nooks and crannies of this site. Since 2006, records about JSB's activities are transferred annually to the Performing Arts Archives housed at the University of Minnesota's Elmer L. Andersen Library, where researchers and other interested parties have access to original records.