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MOTION WITH MEANING
The 26|27 Season celebrates the power of dance to connect, inspire, and transform audiences and communities. From beloved stories to bold premieres, the season brings masterworks and new voices to Arkansas stages while creating meaningful opportunities for engagement with patrons of all ages and backgrounds. Join us for a dynamic season of artistry, energy, and unforgettable moments that speak to every Arkansan.
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THE GREAT GATSBY
A WORLD PREMIERE OF GLAMOUR, OBSESSION, AND THE AMERICAN DREAM
Sponsored by Suzanne and Dr. Earl Babbie
October 23-25, 2026 | Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Friday, October 23 @ 7:00 pm - Pre-Show Talk with Executive and Artistic Director, Michael Fothergill at 6:30 pm
Saturday, October 24 @ 2:00 & 7:00 pm - Upgrade your 7:00pm ticket to experience A Roaring Affair Special Event
Sunday, October 25 @ 2:00 pm
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. Includes a K-12 Student Matinee.
Our production begins where Gatsby’s story ends: with his death. From there, the muses of the Jazz Age: Excess, Desire, Fate, and Memory bring Gatsby back to life and propel us through the events that led to his destruction. Represented in contrast through contemporary costume and contemporary movement, these forces embody the impulses that motivate the period characters, compel them to act and react, and ultimately drive them toward ruin. The production is an intricate, fully immersive experience. Performers will move beyond the traditional stage and into the aisles, seats, alcoves, and other areas of the theater, alongside guests. A life-sized automobile, immersive technology, lighting, scenic elements, and unconventional performance elements will combine to create a production unlike anything Ballet Arkansas has presented before.
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A ROARING AFFAIR
AN EVENING OF GLITZ, GLAMOUR, GATSBY
Libations provided courtesy of Season Sponsor, Colonial Wines & Spirits
Live music provided by JAZZ R US
Saturday, October 24, 2026 - Timeline Below.
Step into the glamour, intrigue, and irresistible energy of the Jazz Age for A Roaring Affair, an unforgettable evening celebrating Ballet Arkansas and its highly anticipated production of Gatsby.
More than a night at the ballet, A Roaring Affair transforms one of Ballet Arkansas's Gatsby performances into a complete social experience, pairing world-class dance with cocktails, live jazz, exceptional hospitality, and a post-performance speakeasy inspired by the decadence of the 1920s.
The evening begins at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, where guests may attend Champagne & Consequence, a VIP experience that offers an intimate pre-performance reception with Ballet Arkansas leadership and Company Artists on stage. Guests will then take their seats for the full performance of Michael Fothergill's world-premiere production of Gatsby. Following the final curtain, the celebration continues as guests step into The Glass Box Speakeasy for two hours of live jazz, cocktails and libations, hors d'oeuvres, appearances by Ballet Arkansas Company Artists, and Gatsby-inspired experiences.
CHAMPAGNE & CONSEQUENCE | VIP EXPERIENCE - 6:00 - 6:45 pm
A limited Champagne & Consequence VIP Experience offers an intimate pre-performance reception with Ballet Arkansas leadership and Company Artists. Enjoy champagne and cocktails, light hors d'oeuvres, and special behind-the-scenes access before the artists prepare to take the stage. Following the performance, VIP guests join the full celebration at The Speakeasy. Availability for this experience is intentionally limited.
THE PERFORMANCE | GATSBY - 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Seduction. Ambition. Excess. Consequence. Ballet Arkansas brings the intoxicating world of Gatsby to the stage at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. The full performance serves as the centerpiece of A Roaring Affair, immersing audiences in a world where glamour conceals obsession and the pursuit of something greater always comes at a price.
THE GLASS BOX SPEAKEASY | AFTER THE CURTAIN - 8:30 - 10:30 pm
When the performance ends, the night is only beginning. A Roaring Affair guests will transition into an exclusive two-hour post-performance Speakeasy, where live jazz sets the mood for an evening of cocktails, wine, hors d'oeuvres, conversation, and appearances by Ballet Arkansas Company Artists and staff. Cocktail attire welcome - Gatsby-era glamour encouraged.
ONLINE AUCTION
Guests and supporters may also participate in Ballet Arkansas's 26|27 season kick-off auction. Participation in the auction is optional, and bidding will take place entirely online. Please note: Auction items are available for bid prior to, and post event, and items will not be distributed or available for pickup during A Roaring Affair. Winning bidders will receive information following the close of the auction regarding item pickup or fulfillment.
Admission
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A Roaring Affair — One Gatsby performance ticket + admission to the two-hour post-show Speakeasy with live jazz, hors d’oeuvres, and themed libations provided by Colonial Wines & Spirits.
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A Roaring Affair for Two — Two Gatsby performance tickets + admission for two to the two-hour post-show Speakeasy with live jazz, hors d’oeuvres, and themed libations provided by Colonial Wines & Spirits.
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Champagne & Consequence VIP — One premium Gatsby performance ticket + exclusive pre-show reception with select Company Artists + stage and backstage experience + admission to the two-hour post-show Speakeasy with live jazz, hors d’oeuvres, and libations provided courtesy of Colonial Wines & Spirits.
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Champagne & Consequence VIP for Two — Two premium Gatsby performance tickets + exclusive pre-show reception with select Company Artists + stage and backstage experience + admission for two to the two-hour post-show Speakeasy with live jazz, hors d’oeuvres, and libations provided courtesy of Colonial Wines & Spirits.
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Speakeasy Upgrade — Post-show Speakeasy admission for one. A ticket to the selected Gatsby performance is required and is not included.
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Speakeasy Upgrade for Two — Post-show Speakeasy admission for two. Two tickets to the selected Gatsby performance are required and are not included.
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Patrons not keen to attend A Roaring Affair are welcome to purchase tickets to Gatsby at the above ticket link.
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THE NUTCRACKER SPECTACULAR WITH THE ASO
ARKANSAS’ LARGEST HOLIDAY PRODUCTION
Supported by the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
Sponsored by Suzanne and Dr. Earl Babbie
December 11-13, 2026 | Robinson Center
Friday, December 11 @ 7:30 pm (Opening night celebration of the anniversary of BA's first production of Lorraine Cranford's Nutcracker, December 11, 1979 - the first performance featuring live accompaniment by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra)
Saturday, December 12 @ 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 13 @ 2:30 pm
A beloved Arkansas holiday tradition returns in spectacular fashion as Ballet Arkansas presents The Nutcracker Spectacular with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra—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. Accompanied by the live, soaring music of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra performing 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. Be sure to visit the Nutcracker Boutique and take a piece of the magic home with you. *Features a Community Cast of performers. Includes a K-12 Student Matinee.
All public performances feature live music by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Evening performances feature specialty themed libations for sale, courtesy of Doubletree of Little Rock. For all ticket inquiries, please contact Robinson Center Box Office at 501-244-8800 or visit the Box Office inside Robinson Center at 426 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201.
Experience two of Ballet Arkansas' most beloved productions at Robinson Center with the "Family Favorites" 2-Show Package! Enjoy the holiday magic of Nutcracker Spectacular (December 11–13) and the enchanting classic Sleeping Beauty (February 19–21). Receive discounted package pricing, early access to seat selection, and the convenience of enjoying the same seats for the same performance—Friday Evening, Saturday Matinee, Saturday Evening, or Sunday Matinee—at both productions. Packages on sale Aug 1-20. Individual tickets on sale August 21.
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LAND OF THE SWEETS NUTCRACKER TEA
December 12–13, 2026 | Robinson Center
Saturday, December 12 @ 11:30 am
Sunday, December 13 @ 11:30 am
Step into a world of holiday enchantment at the Land of the Sweets Nutcracker Tea, one of Little Rock’s most beloved and anticipated seasonal traditions. Inspired by the magical kingdom from The Nutcracker Spectacular, this immersive holiday experience invites guests of all ages to enjoy an elegant teatime filled with festive treats, interactive activities, storybook readings, and unforgettable appearances by Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and beloved characters from the production. Designed to spark wonder and imagination, the Nutcracker Tea offers families a rare opportunity to experience the magic of the ballet up close in an intimate and whimsical setting. Overflowing with holiday charm, music, and memories waiting to be made, this treasured event is the perfect way to celebrate the season. All patrons must have a ticket to attend.
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THE SLEEPING BEAUTY
MAJESTY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Supported by the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
Sponsored by Suzanne and Dr. Earl Babbie
February 19-21, 2027 | Robinson Center
Friday, February 19 @ 7:30 pm
Saturday, February 20 @ 2:30 & 7:30 pm
Sunday, February 21 @ 2:30 pm
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.
Experience two of Ballet Arkansas' most beloved productions at Robinson Center with the "Family Favorites" 2-Show Package! Enjoy the holiday magic of Nutcracker Spectacular December 11–13 and the enchanting classic Sleeping Beauty February 19–21. Receive discounted package pricing, early access to seat selection, and the convenience of enjoying the same seats for the same performance—Friday Evening, Saturday Matinee, Saturday Evening, or Sunday Matinee—at both productions. Packages on sale Aug 1-20. Individual tickets on sale August 21.
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AURORA'S PRINCESS TEA
February 20-21, 2026 | Robinson Center
Saturday, February 20 @ 11:30 am
Sunday, February 21 @ 11:30 am
Inspired by the timeless fairy tale and the magic of The Sleeping Beauty, this immersive event invites guests of all ages to enjoy a royal afternoon of delightful teatime treats, charming activities, enchanting storybook moments, and unforgettable appearances by Princess Aurora, the Lilac Fairy, and other beloved characters from the ballet. Designed to inspire imagination and create treasured family memories, Aurora's Princess Tea offers a rare opportunity to experience the beauty and elegance of classical ballet in an intimate, interactive setting. Surrounded by fairy-tale charm, music, and magical moments, guests will celebrate the grace, wonder, and happily-ever-after spirit of one of the world's most cherished ballets.
All patrons must have a ticket to attend.
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RE:MIX
A COLLISION OF TRADITION AND MODERN EDGE
Sponsored by Suzanne and Dr. Earl Babbie
April 15-16, 2027 | Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Thursday, April 15 @ 7:00 pm
Friday, April 16 @ 7:00 pm
Ballet Arkansas invites audiences into RE:MIX—an immersive performance experience that redefines contemporary ballet through boundary-pushing choreography, electrifying live music, and transformative visual design. This bold mixed repertory program pairs striking contemporary interpretations of iconic neoclassical works with dynamic world premieres by internationally celebrated dancemakers Christian Denice, Penny Saunders, Gabrielle Lamb and Michael Fothergill creating an evening that is both visceral and visually arresting. Performed in collaboration with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and infused with electronic music, RE:MIX delivers a pulse-driven soundscape that amplifies the raw physicality and emotional intensity of Dance as an artform.
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DON QUIXOTE
A LA MANCHA LOVE STORY
Sponsored by Suzanne and Dr. Earl Babbie
April 17-18, 2027 | Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Saturday, April 17 @ 2:00 & 7:00 pm
Sunday, April 18 @ 2:00 pm
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, spirited comedy, fiery romance, and larger-than-life storytelling. This full-length production follows the eccentric Don Quixote and his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, on a wildly imaginative journey through the sun-drenched plazas of Spain—a world of windmills, mistaken identities, theatrical spectacle, and the unforgettable romance of Kitri and Basilio. 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 adventurous heart of the dreamer who dares to chase the impossible. Join us for a spectacular conclusion to the season—and discover how much more magical life becomes when we dare to dream.
*Features a Community Cast of performers. Includes a K–12 student matinee.
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SPOTLIGHT
GO BEYOND THE STAGE AND INTO THE HEART OF BALLET ARKANSAS
Additional Program Details Coming Soon!
Premiering for the 26|27 Season, SPOTLIGHT is a dynamic event series designed to bring audiences closer than ever to the artistry, people, and creative energy that power Ballet Arkansas. Through an evolving lineup of artistic talks, in-studio experiences, community panel discussions, behind-the-scenes rehearsals, choreography showcases, special events, and collaborative gatherings, SPOTLIGHT invites patrons directly into Ballet Arkansas’ creative spaces for meaningful connection and discovery.
SPOTLIGHT is an immersive gateway into the world of Ballet Arkansas—offering rare access to the organization’s world-class artists, creative process, and the impactful programming and partnerships that shape communities across the state. Designed to inspire conversation, curiosity, and engagement, each event shines a light on the transformative role the arts play in education, culture, wellness, and community building. With new experiences being added throughout the season, SPOTLIGHT is a vibrant and ever-evolving celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the people who make Ballet Arkansas an essential force in the cultural life of Arkansas.