The Experience
Entering its fourth decade, Pennsylvania Ballet ranks as one of America’s foremost regional ballet companies. While remaining dedicated to furthering classical traditions, its current, more eclectic programming and choreographic commissioning promises to bring ballet in Philadelphia into the 21st century.
Under the artistic leadership of Roy Kaiser, Pennsylvania Ballet presents a season of six productions each season in Philadelphia, including the beloved holiday spectacular, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Since its inception in 1963, the company has performed ballets by reputable choreographers such as Jerome Robbins, Christopher d’Amboise, David Parsons, Trey McIntyre, Val Caniparoli, and Twyla Tharp.
History
Founded in 1963 by Balanchine protégé Barbara Weisberger, Pennsylvania Ballet was helmed by esteemed artistic directors Benjamin Harkarvy in the '70s, Robert Weiss in the '80s and Christopher d'Amboise in the 90s. Present artistic director Roy Kaiser danced as a principal for many years with the ballet until retiring from the stage in 1992.