The Dark Chocolate Nutcracker Marks 15 Years

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - EntSun -- CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Dark Chocolate Nutcracker will celebrate its 15th anniversary on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, at the VAPA Center, 700 N. Tryon St. in Uptown Charlotte. Presented by Vision Elite Royalty School of Dance LLC under the artistic leadership of Jane Johnson, the production marks the milestone through a new collaboration involving the VAPA Center and Arthur Rogers.

The anniversary performance reflects the work of New York-born founder and artistic director Jane Johnson and her daughter, Mikayla Johnson, who have spent years developing creative opportunities through dance, theater, film and mentorship. Their vision centers on making professional artistic experiences more accessible to performers whose talents might otherwise go unrecognized.

Over its 15-year history, The Dark Chocolate Nutcracker has reached audiences in multiple communities, including a previous presentation at the historic Douglass Theatre. In 2025, the production expanded into film and received a first-place film festival honor, according to its organizers.

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The partnership with the VAPA Center represents an opportunity to connect the production with Charlotte's broader arts community. Working alongside Arthur Rogers, the Johnsons aim to create a stronger platform for local dancers, actors, musicians and other creatives to perform, develop their portfolios and share their work with new audiences.

The production also intends to promote participating artists and pursue IMDb credit recognition where performers and their work meet applicable eligibility requirements. Organizers view these steps as part of a larger mission to help young and emerging performers build experience extending beyond one show.

For the Johnson family, the milestone is rooted in faith, perseverance and the belief that artistic opportunity should not depend solely on an individual's resources or connections. The production's guiding message to artists is: "We see you. We hear you. Your gift matters." Its founders draw inspiration from Philippians 4:13 as they pursue opportunities for the next generation.

The 15th anniversary performance begins at 6 p.m. on Dec. 12, 2026. VIP entry is scheduled for 5–5:30 p.m., and general admission doors open at 5:30 p.m. The event is scheduled to conclude at 8 p.m.

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Tickets are available at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-dark-chocolate-nutcracker-tickets-2004542940897

Journalists are invited to request interviews with the production's leadership, cast features, rehearsal access, photography and behind-the-scenes coverage. Interviews concerning the VAPA Center collaboration may also be coordinated subject to availability.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Vision Elite Royalty School of Dance LLC develops performing arts programming and productions emphasizing dance, creative expression, mentorship and artist visibility. Its Dark Chocolate Nutcracker production is marking 15 years of culturally inspired holiday storytelling and opportunities for emerging performers.