Ballet Arizona announces classics and new shows for 2025-26 season

The local dance company has unveiled the next season's lineup, including a creative take on "Alice in Wonderland."

March 19, 2025

Image: A posed photo of people in costume.

"ALICE (In Wonderland)" is on the schedule for Ballet Arizona's 2025-26 season. Ed Flores/composite by Angie Slade Design

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Ballet Arizona has pulled the curtain back on its upcoming season.

The 2025-26 performance season is a mix of company favorites and new visions, including the beloved "Nutcracker" and a modern interpretation of the "Alice in Wonderland" story.

“We are excited to unveil our 2025-2026 season,” Artistic Director Daniela Cardim said in the announcement. “Each ballet was carefully chosen to highlight the breadth of what the artform can do: From quintessential classics to ballets that push boundaries, there is truly something for every audience member no matter where they are on their ballet journey. We hope you will join us this season for an incredible diversity of programs.”

The 2025-26 Ballet Arizona season is:

‘The Sleeping Beauty’

Oct. 23-26
With The Phoenix Symphony at Symphony Hall“The Sleeping Beauty” invites audiences into a world of romance, wonder, and grandeur in this retelling of the timeless tale. Featuring a live performance of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score by “The Sleeping Beauty” is a breathtaking display of the pinnacle of classical ballet.

‘The Nutcracker’

Dec. 12-27
With The Phoenix Symphony at Symphony HallBallet Arizona returns to Symphony Hall in grand fashion with this holiday classic. Celebrate the joy and wonder of the season with Ib Andersen’s “The Nutcracker” Follow Clara’s wintry adventures as she battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy.

‘ALICE (In Wonderland)’

Feb. 12-15, 2026
With The Phoenix Symphony at Symphony HallIn this interpretation by acclaimed choreographer Septime Webre, “ALICE (in Wonderland)” blends ballet and contemporary dance for a whimsical journey that will delight audiences of every age. From breathtaking sets to striking costumes, vibrant music to unmatched athleticism, “ALICE (in Wonderland)” is a show for all ages.

‘Cacti & Other Works’

March 19-22, 2026
Orpheum TheatreThree short works — "Apollo" by George Balanchine, "Concertante' by Hans van Manen and the gleeful ballet parody "Cacti" — compose this engaging program.

‘An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden’

May 13-30, 2026
Desert Botanical GardenBy popular demand, An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden is back. Surrounded by the magnificent desert landscape with the setting sun as its backdrop, this audience favorite now features two ballet experiences as a double-feature event: "Concerto Six Twenty-Two" by Lar Lubovitch and "Reset" by Daniela Cardrim.

Jennifer Goldberg is the Senior Editor of Culture at Phoenix New Times. She joined the New Times staff in February 2016. In her role, Jennifer writes and publishes profiles of both local and regional musicians, previews upcoming performances and provides guides on the best of Phoenix’s entertainment scene. She also oversees the Best of Phoenix. Jennifer previously worked for Jewish News of Greater Phoenix. During her career, Jennifer has received awards from the Arizona Press Club, the Arizona Newspaper Association and the American Jewish Press Association. She holds a bachelor’s of arts in English from Arizona State University.

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