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STUDENT MATINEE SERIES
Educators, share the beauty of a Ballet Arkansas performance with your K-12 students this year! Student Matinee performances are designed to provide enriching artistic experiences to young audiences, serving thousands of students across Arkansas. Performances are held at 10:30 am and are accompanied by a visually stunning Study Guide, available below. Student Matinee performances may be abbreviated to accommodate school schedules.
Student Matinee Performances are for K-12 students of public/private/homeschool groups and their educators. These performances are not open to the public and tickets are not available for purchase. All attendees are required to be 5 years of age or older, no exceptions. Reservations must be made by a school representative or educator and are non-refundable, except in the event that the performance is cancelled by Ballet Arkansas.
RESERVATIONS NOW OPEN!
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THE GREAT GATSBY
A WORLD PREMIERE OF GLAMOUR, OBSESSION, AND THE AMERICAN DREAM
Friday, October 23 @ 10:30 am
To launch the 26|27 Season, Ballet Arkansas unveils a breathtaking World Premiere production that reimagines one of literature’s most iconic stories with sweeping scale, cinematic power, and contemporary artistry. Inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel, The Great Gatsby, this bold new vision transforms the stage through immersive visual art integration, evocative musical enhancements, and striking contemporary nuance—creating an unforgettable ballet experience designed to captivate audiences across generations. Step into the dazzling world of the Jazz Age, where champagne flows, secrets shimmer beneath the surface, and the enigmatic Jay Gatsby relentlessly pursues the illusion of a perfect past and the love of Daisy Buchanan. Beneath the glamour and decadence lies a haunting portrait of ambition, obsession, and the fragile nature of the American Dream. Lavish, emotionally charged, and visually mesmerizing, The Great Gatsby draws audiences into a world where every celebration hides a deeper longing—and where the pursuit of the unattainable can ultimately lead to dangerous outcomes.
Tickets: $5 Student & $10 Educator
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THE NUTCRACKER SPECTACULAR
ARKANSAS’ LARGEST HOLIDAY PRODUCTION
ROBINSON CENTER
Supported by the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
Thursday, December 10 @ 10:30 am
Friday, December 11 @ 10:30 am
A beloved Arkansas holiday tradition returns in spectacular fashion as Ballet Arkansas presents The Nutcracker Spectacular —Arkansas’ largest and longest-running holiday production. Reimagined for 2026 with newly refreshed first act choreography and exquisite costume enhancements, this dazzling production brings renewed energy, elegance, and wonder to Clara’s unforgettable journey. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, audiences will be swept into a breathtaking world of holiday enchantment filled with lavish sets, vibrant storytelling, and magical spectacle. From the warmth and sparkle of the Christmas Eve celebration to the shimmering fantasy of the Land of the Sweets, The Nutcracker Spectacular captures the joy, imagination, and nostalgia of the season for audiences of all ages. Featuring Ballet Arkansas artists alongside a dynamic community cast, this cherished production remains a heartwarming celebration of tradition, artistry, and holiday magic.
Tickets: $8 Student & $10 Educator
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THE SLEEPING BEAUTY
MAJESTY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
ROBINSON CENTER
Supported by the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
Friday, February 19 @ 10:30 am
Step into a breathtaking world where magic, wonder, and the power of true love come to life in The Sleeping Beauty—one of classical ballet’s most cherished masterpieces and an unforgettable celebration for the entire family. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, this dazzling new production transports audiences into a kingdom of unforgettable characters through exquisite choreography, lavish design, and theatrical artistry. Follow the journey of Princess Aurora from her joyful christening to the dark curse cast by the mysterious Carabosse, culminating in the triumph of love’s awakening kiss. Filled with sweeping romance, timeless storytelling, and some of the most iconic moments in classical ballet, The Sleeping Beauty is a visually spectacular experience that captures the imagination, delights audiences of all ages, and reminds us all of the enduring magic of happily ever after. *Features a Community Cast of performers. Includes a K-12 Student Matinee.
Tickets: $8 Student & $10 Educator
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DON QUIXOTE
A LA MANCHA LOVE STORY
ARKANSAS MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS
Friday, April 17 @ 10:30 am
Inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ legendary masterpiece and beloved by audiences around the world, Don Quixote bursts onto the stage in a thrilling Ballet Arkansas Premiere filled with bravura dancing, comedy, romance, and larger-than-life storytelling. Perfect for the entire family, this spirited production celebrates the adventurous heart of the dreamer who dares to chase the impossible, following the eccentric Don Quixote and his loyal squire Sancho Panza on a wildly imaginative journey through a world of windmills, mistaken identities, fiery romance, and theatrical spectacle. Overflowing with energy, humor, and dramatic flair, fans of Man of La Mancha and lovers of great literary classics alike will be swept away by this joyful celebration of courage, imagination, and the enduring belief that life is always more magical when we dare to dream. *Features a Community Cast of performers.
Tickets: $5 Student & $10 Educator