Sun Country Dance Theatre's 18th Spring Youth Concert, featuring "Hansel & Gretel"
Schedule
Sun, 01 Mar, 2026 at 02:30 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Curtis M. Philips Center For The Performing Arts | Gainesville, FL
Advertisement
Sun Country Dance Theatre (SCDT) is thrilled to announce their 18th Annual Spring Youth Concert, showcasing an encore performance of the original story ballet Hansel & Gretel. In line with its mission to provide enriching arts experiences for the youth of our community, SCDT is proud to offer FREE tickets to children ages 17 and under (available in person at the Phillips Center box office only - tickets are not available online). General admission tickets are priced at $20.00.
SCDT continues to nurture the next generation of dancers and arts enthusiasts by making the magic of live dance performance accessible to all members of the community.
Back by popular demand, we’re thrilled to present an encore performance of our original story ballet Hansel & Gretel, choreographed by Artistic Director Judy Benton. This magical adaption follows the siblings as they wander into an enchanted forest, encounter a cast of whimsical characters, and ultimately face the eccentric Cotton Candy Witch, who plans to turn them into scrumptous confections. With cleverness and courage, Hansel and Gretel outwit the witch and break her magical spell.
Bursting with vibrant choreography, colorful costumes, dynamic sets, and plenty of humor and heart, Hansel & Gretel is a joyful, family-friendly adventure from start to finish. The ballet culminates in a tender reunion with the siblings’ mother, leaving audiences of all ages enchanted. It’s the perfect outing for families and a performance you won’t want to miss!
In addition to Hansel & Gretel, audiences will enjoy an exciting lineup of performances featuring our talented SCDT dancers. The concert showcases a dynamic range of new works by the company’s resident choreographers, along with the premiere of three original pieces created exclusively for SCDT by guest choreographers from New York City. With styles spanning classical ballet, contemporary, modern dance, and musical theatre, this collection of works offers a compelling and richly varied experience for audiences of all ages.
The production will be further enhanced by the contributions of distinguished guest performers from both Florida and New York City. These talented artists bring additional depth and diversity to the production, celebrating the power of collaboration across the arts. Among the special guests are professional dancers from The Florida Ballet (Jacksonville), who will perform as Guest Artists, adding an exciting layer of expertise and artistry to the performance.
This collaboration highlights the vibrant exchange of creative energy between dancers and choreographers from various regions, underscoring the shared passion for the arts that unites performers and enriches our community.
This year’s Spring Youth Concert promises to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity and artistry. Packed with excitement, adventure, and a vibrant mix of performances, the concert offers something for everyone. Sun Country Dance Theatre invites the community to experience this magical and eclectic production, showcasing the talent and passion of dancers from all ages and backgrounds.
Sun Country Dance Theatre (SCDT) is proud to be the resident non-profit performing company of Dance Sun Country, located at Sun Country Sports Center. As part of its mission to provide high-quality dance education and performance opportunities, SCDT brings together talented dancers to create inspiring productions that enrich the local community.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit:
https://performingarts.ufl.edu/events/18th-annual-spring-youth-concert-featuring-hansel-gretel/
This program is funded in part by a grant from the City of Gainesville, Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs Department, a CAPRA Accredited Agency; by a grant from the Thomas H. Maren/Emily Sabah-Maren Fund/Maine Community Foundation; SIMEDHealth; Matchmaker Realty, Tower Hill Insurance; D&P Dentistry; Michael Herriott, O.D.; India Bazaar, Indian Cuisine, & Indian Street Food; Laxton – Pepperidge Farm Snacks; Martin Kids Dental; and Sun Country Sports Center®.
Photos by: Instagram@MCAIRNSPHOTO
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
Curtis M. Philips Center For The Performing Arts, 3201 Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611-2062, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

















