Ballet Rhode Island (Ballet RI)’s 2026–2027 Season, Icons In Motion, asks what happens when history’s most iconic figures, masterworks, and anthems are brought to life through the living, breathing art of dance. “Season 49 is all about celebrating the artists and stories that inspire us,” says Artistic Executive Director Kathleen Breen Combes. “We’re excited to share bold new works alongside beloved classics, and to connect with our community in new ways.”
Ballet RI continues to bring groundbreaking original works and fearless artistic vision to audiences across Rhode Island. Season 49 is proof that the greatest stories don’t just belong in museums or on record, they belong on a stage, in motion, right in front of you. “Each season, Ballet RI aims to push boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to the stage. This year’s lineup reflects our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the power of dance to tell meaningful stories,” says Breen Combes.
In Motion
Woodman Center & United Theatre | October 23–25 & November 6, 2026
Ballet RI returns to the luminous world of American Impressionism with Yury Yanowsky’s Bathers, where fleeting moments are suspended in movement like brushstrokes on canvas. The evening continues with the company premiere of City of Women by James Whiteside, a bold and neoclassical exploration of femininity, identity, and power. Rounding out the program is a powerful world premiere inspired by the story of Lillian Birch created in collaboration with the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center. This moving new work asks what it means to remember, and how the body can carry history forward across generations.
The Nutcracker
The VETS | December 17–27, 2026
A cherished holiday tradition returns, bringing sparkle, magic, and Rhode Island charm to the holiday season. Join Clara on her enchanting journey from a festive Christmas Eve celebration to the breathtaking Land of Sweets, where toy soldiers battle, snowflakes whirl, and dreams come vividly to life. Featuring stunning choreography by Yury Yanowsky, Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, and performances by Ballet RI’s professional company artists alongside local youth from across the community, The Nutcracker is a joyful celebration of wonder, imagination, and holiday magic for audiences of all ages.
Ballet Meets The Beatles
Woodman Center | March 12–21, 2027
A fan favorite returns! Trey McIntyre’s A Day in the Life transforms the Beatles’ iconic catalog into a full-spectrum dance experience, moving from tender intimacy to electrifying joy. “…absolutely infectious…” raves Dance Informa. The Beatles like you’ve never experienced them before, brought vividly to life through McIntyre’s signature choreographic voice. The program also features Same by Yury Yanowsky, set to the music of Boston based singer-songwriter Josh Knowles and performed live, offering an intimate and contemporary counterpoint to the evening.
Made on Hope
Ballet RI Black Box Theatre | April 16–25, 2027
A program of world premieres created right in your own backyard, Made on Hope is Ballet RI’s annual celebration of its own artists, presented in our intimate black box theatre. This bold, boundary-pushing evening features all-new works conceived, created, and performed by the dancers of Ballet Rhode Island. In Season 49, the program showcases seven distinct world premieres, each approximately seven minutes in length, offering a dynamic snapshot of the company’s creative voices and choreographic exploration.
A Real Life Fairy Tale: Princess Diana
Ballet RI Black Box Theatre | April 25–May 2, 2027
Once upon a time, a real princess walked among us. This charming children’s ballet—based on the book by Rhode Island author Emberli Pridham and choreographed by Adele Walden—brings to life the beloved story of Princess Diana. Filled with wonder and warmth, A Real Life Fairy Tale is a perfect introduction to the magic of ballet for young audiences and a celebration of one of history’s most beloved figures.
Carmen
Woodman Center | June 25–27, 2027
One of the most iconic stories ever told, Carmen blazes to life in this bold, raw, and daring new interpretation by Yury Yanowsky. Set to the electrifying music of Georges Bizet, plunge into a world of passion and desire where love is a dangerous game and fate is inescapable.
Subscriptions and Tickets
Season subscriptions are available now.
Nutcracker tickets will go on sale July 20 and single tickets will go on sale August 10. Stay tuned!
Featured Image: Courtesy of Ballet RI.
