UPDATE: The Joffrey Ballet has just announced its highly anticipated 2026-27 season, featuring a captivating lineup of productions that are set to take Chicago by storm. Kicking off on September 17-27, 2026, the season includes the Chicago premiere of “Liliom,” a ballet adaptation of the classic 1909 play that inspired the musical “Carousel.”
This innovative production, choreographed by renowned artist John Neumeier, tells the story of Liliom, a romantic carny whose dreams clash with harsh realities during the Great Depression. Notably, the Joffrey will be the **first American company** to present this unique interpretation of the work, marking a significant moment in the ballet world.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. The season will also feature a beloved holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” from December 2026, and will conclude with the North American premiere of Neumeier’s stunning version of “Sleeping Beauty,” running from May 13-23, 2027. This fresh take on Tchaikovsky’s iconic score promises to be a highlight of the season.
In addition to these major productions, the Joffrey’s winter program, titled “Notes on Love,” will include a world premiere by Houston Thomas, a Chicago native and former Joffrey student. Thomas returns to his roots with “Dear Chicago: A Love Letter,” as part of an emotional Valentine’s Day program running from February 4-14, 2027.
This program will also showcase works by Nicolas Blanc and the return of the acclaimed “Hummingbird” by Liam Scarlett, ensuring a rich and diverse experience for audiences.
Subscriptions for the 2026-27 season start at $138 and are expected to sell quickly. Interested patrons can secure their seats by calling 312-386-8905 or visiting joffrey.org. Single tickets for all performances will go on sale this summer.
The Joffrey Ballet’s latest season is not just a celebration of dance but a testament to the company’s commitment to bringing innovative storytelling to the stage. This season promises to resonate deeply with audiences, making it a must-see for ballet lovers and newcomers alike.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season approaches, and get ready to experience the magic of ballet like never before!