Witness a company in motion and be a part of what it is becoming with Nashville Ballet’s 26–27 Season. Movement Taking Form captures what happens when ideas become expression, when discipline becomes artistry, and when a company begins to reveal, with greater confidence, the shape of its future.
“This season begins with a sense of possibility,” said Nick Mullikin, Nashville Ballet’s Artistic Director & CEO. “Movement Taking Form reflects where Nashville Ballet is as a company and where we are going. It is about the point when ideas stop living only in conversation and begin to take shape onstage through discipline, artistry, and shared purpose. I chose works that highlight the versatility of our artists and reflect the full range of what ballet can be. This season honors the classical foundation of the art form while making space for new voices, bold creation, and the kind of momentum that helps define a company’s future.”
The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet | September 11–20, 2026
Place yourself in the center of the action and get an up-close view of the beauty, athleticism, and energy of dance! Anchored by George Balanchine’s invigorating Allegro Brillante, this captivating performance also features a new work inspired by Oscar Wilde’s novel The Picture of Dorian Gray and a selection of three new contemporary creations choreographed by both our Artistic Team and Company members. Studio A at The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet provides the unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the abundance of talent and artistry Nashville Ballet offers through an intimate and immediate look at the creative energy alive within this organization.
Polk Theater, TPAC | October 2–4, 2026
Artistic Director and CEO Nick Mullikin presents his first full-length ballet with his own unique interpretation of the hauntingly beautiful tale of Giselle. Complete with reinvigorated sets and costumes, new choreography, and live accompaniment by the Nashville Symphony, witness this tragic love story on our main stage for the first time since 2009. Find yourself caught in the moonlit shadows with the veiled Wilis’ dark desire for revenge . . . but this time, redemption is not so certain.
The Martin Center for Nashville Ballet | October 28–November 1, 2026
Vivid choreography, soul-stirring music, and vibrant Mexican tradition combine for a celebration of family, all parts of life, and our shared humanity. Back by popular demand after completely selling out in 2024, this one-of-a-kind performance pulls inspiration from the paintings of Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Choreographed by Maria A. Konrad, Día de los Muertos ignites imaginations across all ages through a performance that can only be described as sheer joy. Immerse yourself in an event that bridges tradition with Nashville’s cultural landscape, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of this beloved holiday.
Jackson Hall, TPAC | November 27–December 27, 2026
Pirouette into the perfect winter season with Middle Tennessee’s favorite holiday tradition, Nashville’s Nutcracker! Featuring Tchaikovsky’s enduringly iconic score performed live by the Nashville Symphony, Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling’s Emmy Award–winning retelling takes you on a uniquely Nashville adventure filled with swirling snowflakes, whimsical wonders, and timeless storytelling. From the sweetest Sugar Plum Fairy to the tiniest baby mouse, this heartwarming holiday ballet is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Join Nashville Ballet to create magical memories that will last for years to come!
Jackson Hall, TPAC | February 26–28, 2027
A courageous young woman searching for her destiny and a handsome prince searching for the owner of a glass slipper unite in this charming fairytale ballet. Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling’s glittering rendition of Cinderella returns, performed for the first time in TPAC’s Jackson Hall with live music by the Nashville Symphony. Perfect for audience members of all ages, this enchanting story proves that with a gentle nudge from a Fairy Godmother (and a little magic), we can make our own dreams come true.
Polk Theater, TPAC | May 7–9, 2027
Experience the exciting return of Nashville Ballet’s annual Attitude series, designed to highlight cutting-edge contemporary ballet. Performed for the first time by Nashville Ballet, Ulysses Dove’s Red Angels makes its electric Tennessee premiere. Internationally renowned choreographer Marika Brussel, known for creating ballets that challenge social norms and evoke strong emotions, presents a world premiere uniquely created for the Company. As the centerpiece of this indelible event, Nick Mullikin’s profound Erase the Night makes its much-anticipated return. Three unique ballets in one exhilarating event that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Subscriptions and Tickets
Season subscriptions are available now.
Single ticket and Nutcracker tickets will go on sale later this summer. Stay tuned!
Featured Image: Photo by MA2LA.
