BSN COMMITMENT LETTER
Oct 27, 2025 06:05 PM
The Brown Sugar Nutcracker®
2025 Cast Commitment Letter
Ursula Smith & faculty are thrilled to begin this season’s production of The Brown Sugar Nutcracker®! This program is designed for dancers who are motivated to elevate their artistry, grow in discipline, and gain valuable performance experience. By joining this cast, you are making an important investment in your dance education, your performance journey, and the joy of being part of this vibrant community of dancers.
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Communications
• All Cast Member–related questions or concerns must be submitted through your Ursula Smith Dance Portal.
• For urgent matters, you may contact our office at (205) 202-9510.
• Please note: To respect the faculty’s personal time, do not contact instructors via text, Facebook Messenger, or personal email.
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Production Fees
• A non-refundable production fee of $365.00 is required. This fee covers classes, rehearsals, and costume rentals.
• All fees must be paid in full no later than September 6, 2025.
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Attendance
Regular attendance is the foundation of success. All dancers are expected to uphold the following policies:
• No more than 3 absences will be permitted from classes and rehearsals unless pre-approved by management and related to school, illness, or injury.
• Any un-communicated absence may result in suspension or dismissal from the production. There will be no exceptions.
• It is the dancer’s responsibility to notify the rehearsal director of an absence—do not rely on classmates to communicate on your behalf.
• Illness, injury, or extended absences will be handled at the teacher’s discretion and may affect placement or understudy status.
• Dancers are responsible for learning all missed choreography. If absent, you must connect with a peer and review material before the next rehearsal.
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Outside Commitments
• All cast members must inform the rehearsal director of any outside commitments that may conflict with rehearsals or performances.
• To maintain the integrity of this production, all training and performances must remain under the direction of Ursula Smith during the rehearsal/performance period.
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Social Media
• Dancers and parents are expected to use social media responsibly and in alignment with the Code of Ethics below.
• Negative or disparaging remarks about fellow dancers, instructors, or the production will result in immediate dismissal.
• Sharing or posting choreography or rehearsal videos is strictly prohibited on all social media platforms.
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Code of Ethics
As a member of The Brown Sugar Nutcracker® cast, you are a role model. All team members will be held to a higher standard of behavior, participation, and dedication. We expect every dancer to:
• INTEGRITY: Conduct yourself with honesty, courtesy, and respect. Lead by example and honor your commitments.
• LEADERSHIP: Inspire others by your actions and words. Be a positive influence in all dance-related activities.
• RESPONSIBILITY: Follow studio policies and procedures. Communicate respectfully with peers and instructors. Receive coaching with openness.
• CHARACTER: Represent yourself with dignity, maturity, and personal integrity. Avoid gossip, criticism, or negative remarks.
• PROFESSIONALISM: Respect the art of dance, uplift your peers, and model excellence both inside and outside the studio.
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Dance Ensemble Terms of Agreement
By signing this agreement, you acknowledge your commitment to The Brown Sugar Nutcracker® cast for the period of September – December 2025. You agree to uphold the standards, responsibilities, and expectations outlined above.
This agreement will be uploaded into your Ursula Smith Dance Portal. You are required to review it carefully and submit your electronic signature through the portal by the deadline provided.
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Electronic Signature Required via Ursula Smith Dance Portal