Assuming all goes well, there will indeed be a Kennedy Center 2021 ballet season for dance lovers to look forward to after missing out on shows this fall. Performances are contingent on Washington, DC entering phase 4 of reopening to be dictated by Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Over the past four months I’ve been struck by the heartening proof that we need artists and the arts now more than ever,” said Deborah F. Rutter, President of the Kennedy Center. “The Center has chosen to move forward with optimism balanced by safety and constant re-evaluation as the effects of the pandemic continue to evolve. Even with a shortened season, the Kennedy Center strives to provide a broad range of world-class arts to the widest possible audience—in-person and digitally. Our supporters and patrons have given us strength during these unusual times; as the coming months unfold, we are exceedingly grateful for the patience, flexibility, and trust of our audiences.”
Audiences will be able to see the Kennedy Center debut of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo along with annual favorites New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. The three ballet companies have distinct styles and they will all be showcasing full-length ballets – Cinderella, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Don Quixote, respectively.
Click on the images below to learn more details about each series.
The Kennedy Center 2021 Ballet Season
February 24-27, 2021
Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo
Cinderella
Choreography: Jean-Christophe Maillot
New York City Ballet
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Choreography: George Balanchine
April 21-25, 2021
American Ballet Theatre
Don Quixote
Choreography: Marius Petipa
Source: The Kennedy Center