Rochester City Ballet announces a dazzling 2025|2026 Season
It’s with great excitement that we announce Rochester City Ballet’s 2025/2026 Season—a journey through captivating performances, inspiring collaborations, and unforgettable moments. This year, we’re pushing boundaries, building new partnerships, and offering new opportunities to connect with the magic of dance. The 2025/2026 season for Rochester City Ballet is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Here’s what you can expect from our upcoming season:
SYNERGY: RCB & CNYB
October 18, 2025 | Everson Museum, Syracuse, NY
We are kicking off the season with something special: a groundbreaking residency in Syracuse, NY in collaboration with Syracuse University and Central New York Ballet at the Everson Museum. SYNERGY will bring together the talented dancers of both companies for an evening celebrating the power of movement, creativity, and community. This performance, held in one of Syracuse's most iconic cultural venues, will be an exciting showcase of the artistic possibilities when two ballet companies come together in harmony.
THE NUTCRACKER
November + December, 2025 | Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre & Fort Hill Performing Arts Center
Step into the magic of the holiday season with The Nutcracker, a cherished Rochester tradition. With live music from the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, dazzling costumes, and exquisite choreography, this production brings to life Clara’s dreamlike journey to a land of sparkling snow and delectable sweets. Whether it’s your first time or a family tradition, The Nutcracker is a must-see celebration of wonder and joy.
ROMEO & JULIET SUITE
January 31 & February 1, 2026 | Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre
The tragic and timeless love story of Romeo & Juliet comes to life in a stunning performance, featuring Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet Suite. Set to the evocative and passionate score of one of the greatest composers, this suite brings the romance and drama of Shakespeare’s iconic play to the stage. Presented with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, this production, directed by Andreas Delfs, will take you on an emotional journey of love, loss, and the enduring power of passion. This is a must-see for lovers of classical ballet and theater alike.
NEXT UP! - A Choreographic Showcase
February 28, 2026 | St. John Fisher University’s NEW Black Box Theatre
Don’t miss NEXT UP!, a unique and intimate choreographic showcase that celebrates the raw beauty of dance. This performance, set in the new Black Box Theatre at St. John Fisher University, will feature short works by emerging choreographers—many of whom are members of the RCB company. With minimal sets and costumes, this performance allows the pure artistry of movement to take center stage in an intimate setting.
CINDERELLA
April 25-26, 2026 | Robert F. Panara Theatre at Rochester Institute of Technology
After more than three decades, Cinderella returns to the RIT stage! Rochester City Ballet is proud to present this full-length fairytale classic at RIT’s School of Performing Arts, complete with breathtaking costumes, captivating music, and spellbinding choreography. It’s a magical experience you won’t want to miss.
MOTHER GOOSE SUITE
May 17 | Hochstein Performance Hall
With the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite springs to life in this delightful performance for young audiences. Classic fairy tales meet music and movement in an afternoon of pure enchantment — a perfect introduction to ballet and symphonic storytelling.
A Season of Storytelling, Collaboration & Creativity
Join Rochester City Ballet this season as we celebrate the timeless beauty of ballet while embracing new ideas and voices. Whether you’re a longtime patron or a first-time guest, we invite you to experience the power of dance — from the grand stages of Eastman Theatre to the intimate magic of a black box theater.
Stay connected with us @rochestercityballet and visit rochestercityballet.com for more details.
Let the season inspire you. ✨