Grand Rapids Ballet’s 2025-26 season blends bold premieres and timeless favorites. Kicking off with Sherlock, a world premiere by Penny Saunders inspired by the mysteries of Sherlock Holmes and the life of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Celebrate the holidays with our beloved production of The Nutcracker. In February, experience the world premiere of Swan Lake, reimagined by Artistic Director James Sofranko. Spring brings Jumpstart 2026, featuring new works by our dancers. We close the season with Justin Peck’s electric In the Countenance of Kings, set to music by Sufjan Stevens.
SWAN LAKE
February 27 – March 1, 2026 at DeVos Performance Hall
Experience the timeless beauty of Swan Lake, one of the most beloved ballets of all time, in a world-premiere production by Grand Rapids Ballet’s Artistic Director and Choreographer, James Sofranko. This stunning new interpretation honors the original choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, while showcasing the talent and artistry of Grand Rapids Ballet’s dancers.
Set to the iconic score by Tchaikovsky, performed live by the Grand Rapids Symphony, Swan Lake tells the hauntingly beautiful story of Prince Siegfried’s love for Odette, a princess cursed to live as a swan, and a tragic betrayal orchestrated by the evil magician Rothbart and his daughter Odile, the Black Swan. The dual role of Odette and Odile is a true showcase of virtuosity and artistry, making it a must-see performance for any ballet lover.
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET SCHOOL
Train at Grand Rapids Ballet School, the educational branch of Michigan’s premiere professional ballet company. Grand Rapids Ballet School offers dance classes for all ages and experience levels, beginning with ballet training for students ages 3-19, plus adult and Adaptive Dance classes. GRBS offers classes with individual attention, personalized mentorship, choreographic and performance opportunities, live piano accompaniment, and a supportive community of dancers dedicated to achieving their goals. Visit our school page to learn more about classes.
Moving With Parkinson’s
At Grand Rapids Ballet School, we embrace the healing power of dance. Our Moving with Parkinson’s program offers an inclusive space for individuals with Parkinson’s disease to experience the joy of dance. These classes build a supportive community, fostering connection and camaraderie among participants of all abilities.
- – Free weekly classes for adults with Parkinson’s
- – In partnership with the Parkinson’s Association of West Michigan
- – Held at Grand Rapids Ballet and satellite locations across West Michigan.
- – Supportive community with holistic, restorative movement
