In 1992 an abbreviated version of The Nutcracker was presented by Northwest Ballet Ensemble, which drew the attention of Prairie Center Director Betsy Armistead. She approached director/choreographer Michele Leslie Holzman with the idea of doing a full-length version of The Nutcracker, co-sponsored by the Village of Schaumburg. With the support of Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson, the Schaumburg Dance Ensemble was created, allowing for participation
of students from all dance studios, as well as the inclusion of professional dancers to perform the lead roles.

Thanks to the efforts of the Artistic Directors of Ballet Illinois, the Directors of the Prairie Center, the PCA technical staff, the costume staff and countless volunteers, the Schaumburg Nutcracker has grown into a professional production that casts over 20 professional dancers, 25 adults and gives opportunities to student dancers in the Chicago area. The Schaumburg Nutcracker incorporates elaborate scenery and stage furnishings for the two-act ballet, with well over 200 lavish costumes.  SDE is proud to list among their guest artists dancers from renowned companies such as American Ballet Theatre, Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, Cincinnati Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater, Hubbard Street Dance Company, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, and Melissa Thodos Dancers.  

The Nutcracker has grown in popularity, and additional shows have been added throughout the years. The company has developed a dedicated audience, many of whom attend every year as one of their holiday traditions. Today, there are 14 shows, with 12 public performances along with 2 abridged presentations for area schools.

Schaumburg Dance Ensemble is a non-profit dance group and relies on funding from ticket sales, a nominal participation fee from student dancers, fund raisers, corporate sponsorships, and support from the Al Larson Cultural Center Foundation. Like most arts groups, funding
is always a challenge, and all donations and support are greatly appreciated.

Since its first year, over 2,500 young dancers have been encouraged in the art of dance through their participation in the Schaumburg Dance Ensemble. Over 50,000 area residents have been enriched by their exposure to these young dancers as audience members.

The Schaumburg Nutcracker is currently directed by Ballet Illinois’ artistic directors Lisa Sheppard, Alberto Arias and Amy Rose.