frequently asked questions
Where are Northern Plains Dance's performances held?
NPD’s season of main stage performances are held at the Belle Mehus City Auditorium, at the corner of 6th Street and East Broadway Avenue in downtown Bismarck.
When do single tickets go on sale for the season?
Season tickets are available starting in May each year. Tickets for individual performances go on sale in the months prior to each performance.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online, by calling 701.530.0986, or at our studio, located at 1416 E Front Ave in Bismarck. On performance days, tickets are available at the venue one hour prior to curtain. Tickets sold online or over the phone are subject to fees.
Do you offer a military discount?
We do not offer a military discount, but a limited number of tickets are available to military families at the Military Services Center.
How early should I arrive at the theater?
If you already have your ticket, you should arrive a half-hour prior to the performance time, when the doors to the theater are opened. If you still need a ticket, NPD’s box office opens an hour prior to curtain time.
How do I get to the Belle Mehus City Auditorium?
Driving Directions to the Belle Mehus City Auditorium
From Highway 83 (north of Bismarck): Go south on Highway 83/State Street. Continue onto East Boulevard Ave. East Boulevard Ave. turns slightly left and becomes N. 7th Street. Turn right onto East Broadway Ave. The Belle Mehus Auditorium will be on the right.
From Interstate 94 (east or west of Bismarck): Take exit 159 for US-83 N ramp. Turn left onto 12th St NE/State Street. Continue onto East Boulevard Ave. East Boulevard Ave. turns left and becomes N. 7th Street. Turn right onto East Broadway Ave. The Belle Mehus Auditorium will be on the right.
Where can I park?
There are three parking ramps within one block of the Belle Mehus City Auditorium, Parkade Parking Ramp (6th & Broadway), Sixth and Thayer Ramp (N 6th St) and Galleria Parking Ramp (7th & Broadway). Hourly rates are typically $1 per hour in these ramps and they are often free on weekends. There is also plenty of free street parking in the area.
Can I bring my young child to the performances?
Northern Plains Dance loves welcoming children and families to the Belle Mehus City Auditorium and sharing the excitement of live performance together.
Our mainstage productions are best suited for children who are comfortable sitting through a full performance and enjoying the experience without disrupting those around them. For that reason, NPD generally recommends that children be at least 3 years old to attend our performances. Parents and caregivers know their children best and are encouraged to use their own discretion when deciding if a performance is a good fit.
If a child needs a break during the performance, we ask that an accompanying adult step into the lobby with them until they are ready to return. In cases where a child is unable to settle, front-of-house staff may ask the child and accompanying adult to leave the auditorium. Tickets are non-refundable.
For younger children and first-time audience members, My First Nutcracker is designed as a friendly introduction to the magic of The Nutcracker, with a format created especially for little ones.
NPD also offers Sensory-Friendly Performances for audience members who may enjoy a more relaxed theater experience. These performances include a welcoming environment where movement, vocalization, and breaks are expected and encouraged, helping more families experience live dance in a way that feels comfortable and accessible.
Do I need a ticket for my infant or toddler?
Yes. Even if you expect your child to snuggle on your lap to enjoy the performance, every person in attendance needs to purchase a ticket.
I'd like to make a night of it. Where can I eat in the area?
These restaurants are located near the Belle Mehus City Auditorium — offering a place to dine before or after a performance. Please contact these restaurants directly for hours of operation. All of these restaurants are within walking distance to Belle Mehus City Auditorium.
What if the weather is bad?
If you are coming from out of town and the weather makes it difficult for you to get to Bismarck, you should contact NPD prior to the performance to which you have tickets. We will be happy to help you exchange your tickets for another performance in the current season.
How can I be part of an NPD production?
Auditions for The Nutcracker and Dance+ are open to the public. Our spring performance is limited to students in the Northern Plains Dance Academy. To be in The Nutcracker, you must be 4 years of age on the audition date; and to be in Dance+ you must be 11. In order to participate in our Spring Performance, you must be enrolled in classes at Northern Plains Dance by mid-January (Date listed in Handbook). Additional details on auditions can be found on the Audition page.