BREAKING: The Joffrey Ballet has just announced its thrilling 2026-27 season, marking a significant milestone as the renowned company enters its seventh decade. This season features a captivating lineup of story ballets, including the highly anticipated Chicago premiere of “Liliom”, running from September 17-27, 2026.
“Liliom,” choreographed by the legendary John Neumeier, adapts the classic 1909 French play that inspired the musical “Carousel.” Set against the backdrop of America’s Great Depression, the narrative dives into the life of Liliom, a romantic carny whose desires lead him into turmoil. Notably, this marks the first time an American company will perform this poignant ballet, making it a landmark event for Joffrey.
The season continues with the Joffrey’s beloved “Nutcracker”, a Chicago-themed spectacle running for four weeks in December. Additionally, the company will close the season with the North American premiere of Neumeier’s reimagined “Sleeping Beauty”, scheduled for May 13-23, 2027. This fresh take on Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet will be a highlight, as it has not been part of Joffrey’s repertoire until now.
Joffrey Ballet’s winter program, titled “Notes on Love,” will run from February 4-14, 2027, featuring a world premiere titled “Dear Chicago: A Love Letter” by Chicago native Houston Thomas. This heartfelt piece, inspired by love in all its forms, will showcase Thomas’s unique choreography, marking his return to the Joffrey stage after years abroad.
In addition to Thomas’s work, the program will also include a new piece by rehearsal director Nicolas Blanc and the return of Liam Scarlett’s “Hummingbird,” which has been well-received since its debut with the company in 2024.
Subscriptions for the 2026-27 season start at $138 and are available at 312-386-8905 or on the Joffrey Ballet’s official website, joffrey.org. Single tickets for all performances will go on sale this summer.
As the Joffrey Ballet gears up for this exciting new season, it not only continues to enrich Chicago’s cultural landscape but also promises to deliver unforgettable performances that resonate with audiences. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach this highly anticipated season.
