Arts, Events and Culture In Arizona

Ballet Arizona 2026 season: new works and classics

BOSW April 1, 2026

Ballet Arizona Romeo and Juliet performance with dancers in dramatic candlelit scene inside a cathedral-style set in Phoenix. — Ballet Arizona opens its 40th anniversary season with Romeo & Juliet. (Photo courtesy of Ed Flores)

From its founding in 1986 to its current role as a cultural cornerstone, Ballet Arizona has spent four decades shaping the region’s performing arts landscape. Now under the direction of internationally acclaimed artistic director Daniela Cardim, the company continues to balance classical tradition with contemporary creativity, featuring more than 30 professional dancers who bring each production to life

A season of iconic works and bold premieres

The anniversary season opens with “Romeo & Juliet” (Oct. 22–25, 2026) at Symphony Hall, featuring a live performance by The Phoenix Symphony. Choreographed by Ib Andersen, the production brings sweeping romance and dramatic storytelling to the stage.

Ballet Arizona celebrates Valentine’s weekend with “Don Quixote.” (Photo courtesy of Ed Flores)

A beloved holiday tradition returns with “The Nutcracker” (Dec. 11–27, 2026), widely recognized as one of the top productions in the country and a perennial favorite for Arizona audiences.

In February, “Don Quixote” (Feb. 11–14, 2027) brings vibrant energy and humor to Valentine’s weekend, blending theatrical flair with dazzling choreography inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ classic tale.

Ballet Arizona returns to Desert Botanical Garden with “Desert Lines.” (Photo courtesy of Ed Flores)

Spring introduces “Pulse” (April 1–4, 2027) at Orpheum Theatre, a mixed repertoire program showcasing works by George Balanchine, Christopher Wheeldon and Juanjo Arqués, offering a modern lens on ballet today.

An unforgettable desert stage and world premiere

One of the season’s most anticipated experiences returns to Desert Botanical Garden with “Desert Lines” (May 12–29, 2027), an open-air performance that blends dance with the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. This year’s program features the world premiere of “Stillness,” choreographed by resident choreographer Nayon Iovino, alongside “Gnawa” by Nacho Duato.

Ballet Arizona’s “Pulse” brings together three dynamic contemporary works: showcasing athleticism, innovation and evolving artistry. (Photo courtesy of Ed Flores)

A new platform for emerging voices

Closing out the season, “Ballet in the Making” (June 12, 2027) debuts at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, introducing a new choreographic initiative where dancers step into the role of creators, presenting original works developed through collaboration and experimentation.

To learn more, visit balletaz.org.