Grand Rapids Ballet’s 2025-26 season blends bold premieres and timeless favorites. Kicking off with Sherlock, a world premiere by Penny Saunders inspired by the mysteries of Sherlock Holmes and the life of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Celebrate the holidays with our beloved production of The Nutcracker. In February, experience the world premiere of Swan Lake, reimagined by Artistic Director James Sofranko. Spring brings Jumpstart 2026, featuring new works by our dancers. We close the season with Justin Peck’s electric In the Countenance of Kings, set to music by Sufjan Stevens.
THE NUTCRACKER
December 12-14 & 19-21, 2025 at DeVos Performance Hall
Join us as Clara and her Nutcracker Prince journey from a festive holiday party to a daring battle with mischievous mice, and finally, to the dazzling Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy welcomes them with enchanting dances from around the world—including the breathtaking Waltz of the Flowers. With choreography by Val Caniparoli, stunning sets designed by Grand Rapids’ own Chris Van Allsburg (The Polar Express) and Tony Award-winner Eugene Lee, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the Grand Rapids Symphony, our production is a feast for the senses that captures the magic of the season. We can’t wait to share this holiday tradition with you.
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET SCHOOL
Train at Grand Rapids Ballet School, the educational branch of Michigan’s premiere professional ballet company. Grand Rapids Ballet School offers dance classes for all ages and experience levels, beginning with ballet training for students ages 3-19, plus adult and Adaptive Dance classes. GRBS offers classes with individual attention, personalized mentorship, choreographic and performance opportunities, live piano accompaniment, and a supportive community of dancers dedicated to achieving their goals. Visit our school page to learn more about classes.
Moving With Parkinson’s
At Grand Rapids Ballet School, we embrace the healing power of dance. Our Moving with Parkinson’s program offers an inclusive space for individuals with Parkinson’s disease to experience the joy of dance. These classes build a supportive community, fostering connection and camaraderie among participants of all abilities.
- – Free weekly classes for adults with Parkinson’s
- – In partnership with the Parkinson’s Association of West Michigan
- – Held at Grand Rapids Ballet and satellite locations across West Michigan.
- – Supportive community with holistic, restorative movement
