Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida joyfully unveils its 28th Anniversary Season, marking nearly three decades of delivering world-class ballet to South Florida audiences. Led by Artistic Director Vladimir Issaev, the 2025–2026 season presents a vibrant array of performances, premieres, and community initiatives, reflecting the company’s dedication to artistic excellence and inclusivity.
The season opens in October with Program I, headlined by the return of Firebird, a visually stunning retelling of the Russian fairytale, set to Stravinsky’s unforgettable score. This program also features Glinka Suite Fantastique, Talisman Pas de Deux, and Double Clef by Vicente Nebrada — a vibrant mix of classical and neoclassical works that showcase the range of the company’s internationally acclaimed dancers.
December brings the return of the beloved holiday tradition, The Nutcracker, choreographed by Issaev and performed by the company’s professional dancers and community cast. As part of its commitment to inclusion, Arts Ballet Theatre will once again present a Sensory Inclusive performance at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, specially designed for audience members with sensory sensitivities and their families.
In February 2026, the company returns to the Sanctuary of the Arts in Coral Gables for a special performance featuring excerpts from Firebird and selections from the company’s repertoire. This performance is presented with the generous support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the City of Coral Gables.
In March, the company presents the whimsical ballet Dr. Ouch!, based on children’s poems by Russian author Kornei Chukovsky. This two-act production is part of the company’s Family Series, combining humor, vivid costumes, and expressive choreography to delight audiences of all ages.
The season concludes with a spectacular Spring Gala in May, featuring Danzón by Yanis Pikieris, La Traviata Pas de Deux, Shostakovich Suites, and Tarde en la Siesta by renowned Cuban choreographer Alberto Méndez, restaged in collaboration with Issaev. The Gala culminates in the U.S. premiere of Polovtsian Dances, a large-scale ballet choreographed by Issaev and performed by 32 dancers. This powerful finale is generously underwritten by Funding Arts Broward (FAB!) and Funding Arts Network (FAN).
In addition to its performance season, Arts Ballet Theatre continues to grow its educational outreach programs, offering free and low-cost performances in public schools, interactive workshops, and opportunities for children of all backgrounds to experience ballet. These programs are made possible through the support of The Miami Foundation, The Shepard Broad Foundation, and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs.
Arts Ballet Theatre will also represent the community at major cultural events, including the International Ballet Festival of Miami, Daniel Lewis Dance Sampler, Men Who Dance, and the Miami International Ballet Competition Gala.
Join Arts Ballet Theatre as they celebrate 28 years of excellence in dance. Tickets and full season information are available at www.artsballettheatre.org
