The Boston Ballet is set to captivate audiences during its 2025-26 season, showcasing a diverse lineup of performances at the Citizens Opera House. Under the direction of Mikko Nissinen, the company is blending traditional favorites with innovative works, aiming to attract both long-time fans and newcomers alike. This season reflects Nissinen’s philosophy of viewing ballet as a dynamic art form rather than a static tradition.
Highlighting the Season’s Performances
The season features several standout productions that exemplify this vision. One of the most anticipated is “Jewels,” running from November 6 to 16, 2025. Created by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine, this ballet is known for its exploration of neoclassical styles, showcasing three distinct sections: “Diamonds,” “Emeralds,” and “Rubies.” Each segment highlights Balanchine’s influential contributions to ballet, making it both a historical journey and an artistic celebration.
Following this, the timeless classic “The Nutcracker” will grace the stage from November 28 to December 28, 2025. Nissinen’s reinterpretation of this beloved holiday staple emphasizes the technical skill required of dancers, transforming the production into a serious artistic endeavor. As Nissinen noted, “We at the company don’t think of it as entertainment; we think of it as a serious piece of art.” This dedication to excellence has made the performance a seasonal highlight, drawing enthusiastic crowds year after year.
Innovative New Works and Timeless Classics
The season will also introduce new works, including a program featuring Lia Cirio‘s acclaimed piece “After,” slated for May 7 to 17, 2026. Following its successful premiere last year, Cirio’s work will share the program with renowned pieces by Jerome Robbins and William Forsythe. This event not only marks the Boston debuts of these two celebrated choreographers but also highlights the company’s commitment to showcasing bold, contemporary ballet.
Concluding the season, “The Sleeping Beauty” will be performed from May 28 to June 7, 2026. This production, choreographed by 19th-century icon Marius Petipa and refined by British maestro Sir Frederick Ashton, is a perfect introduction for those transitioning from family favorites like “The Nutcracker.” Accompanied by the iconic score of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the ballet appeals to audiences of all ages.
The Boston Ballet’s 2025-26 season promises a rich tapestry of performances that honor the past while embracing the future. With a commitment to artistic integrity and audience engagement, Nissinen and the company are poised for another successful year. For more details on the full lineup of performances, visit bostonballet.org.