Jessie Southerland is the familiar face directing Dalton’s annual Snow Queen ballet, but she’s also its origin and driving force. In 2025, the production celebrates its twentieth birthday, marking a major milestone for Jessie, Ballet Dalton, and The Creative Arts Guild. As the curtain rises once again on this beloved community tradition, Jessie’s legacy shines brighter than ever, reflected in this year’s performance and the hundreds of dancers who’ve brought its magic to life over the years. From the live orchestra to each princess’ handmade costume, The Snow Queen remains one of Dalton’s most unique and treasured artistic experiences.
Q: What was it like bringing the Snow Queen to life the first time?
A: When I look back, I just don’t know how we did it. I remember spending that entire summer pulling every movie, every story, every piece of music. There was no score for The Snow Queen – we had to create it. From May or June of that year until it launched opening night in early December, we created a whole ballet – every piece of music, every step of choreography, every set piece, every costume.
Q: Is the production the same every year?
A: There’s not been a single year the audience is seeing the exact same thing. We have new sets, new costumes and sections that are totally different. We’re introducing a cool new character this year that we’ve considered since the beginning. The Raven is a highly acted part but it also requires a level of technique. We were waiting for the right dancer to finally bring this part to life.
Q: The Snow Queen is a family affair for a lot of dancers – what’s that been like for you?
A: My own kids have grown up in this ballet too. My daughter has danced almost every role in the ballet. I have hardly ever seen her dance from the audience, but it also means I’ve had these really special moments with her backstage. It’s been the coolest thing in the world to share this with her. She [Finley Bonanno] just graduated and has joined us as a dance instructor. She’s been invaluable helping us with casting, because she understands the characters so deeply.
Q: The Snow Queen is just one facet of Ballet Dalton and Dance at the Creative Arts Guild. Why do you think dance education is so valuable?
A: I’d hire a dancer for nearly any job I need filled. Their feet are held to the fire. They know how to stay on schedule. They are coming from a place of “yes.” They know the importance of having the right attire for the job. Through dance, we are teaching them how to be adults in this world. We also expect that they have respect and gratitude inside and outside of the studio. If we see a situation where that is not happening, we call it out in the right way.
Q: What do you wish everyone knew about dance at Ballet Dalton and the Creative Arts Guild
A: I hope that everyone knows how welcoming we are. Dance is for everybody and every body. We have a spot for every child and every adult who chooses to dance. I hope that everyone who dances here knows we genuinely love them beyond how well they plie. We love and care about them as human beings.
Jessie Southerland is the Dance Director at the Creative Arts Guild and Ballet Dalton. The Creative Arts Guild is your community hub for artistic exploration and cultural connection. With diverse programs, expert guidance, and a welcoming space for all, we make art accessible and meaningful. You can learn more about the Creative Arts Guild programming at https://creativeartsguild.org, or on social media @creativeartsguild.
