RE:DEFINE
Madison Ballet’s 2025-2026
season
More than ever, our stage is a space for reflection, representation, and renewal. And our community—you—are an essential part of this redefining process. Your curiosity, your support, and your willingness to grow with us are what make this season not just possible, but powerful. We invite you to take your seat, open your heart, and experience the power, passion and precision of ballet—Madison Ballet!
- Ja’ Malik Artistic and Executive Director
This season-opening program invites audiences to reimagine their perceptions of ballet. Too often, ballet is seen as elitist or inaccessible—but at Madison Ballet, we believe ballet is for everyone. Re: Imagine Rock The Ballet breaks down those barriers, blending classical technique with contemporary flair and music not traditionally associated with ballet. The program features world premieres by acclaimed choreographers Meredith Rainey and Yury Yanowsky, a reimagined version of Richard Walters’ Parallax, and the return of audience favorite Rhapsody in Blue by Ja’ Malik, set to the recomposed Gershwin classic performed live by Mr. Chair.
Join us on opening night for a Post Performance discussion with the creatives behind this exciting program.
This holiday season, Madison Ballet invites audiences to Re:Discover the magic, wonder, and timeless beauty of The Nutcracker. Our 2025 production brings Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score to life with stunning choreography, lavish costumes, and a dazzling cast of dancers from our company, school and community under the glorious Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra conducted by Maestro Andrew Sewell. Whether you're continuing a cherished family tradition or discovering The Nutcracker for the first time, this production promises something for everyone — from the sparkling Snow Queen to the enchanting Land of Sweets. Join us at Overture Center for the Arts and let the spirit of the season sweep you away.
Join a pre-curtain performance by Suzuki Stings in the Overture Hall lobby on December 13th at 6:00p.
Madison Ballet’s second mixed repertory program, Re: Focus Pointes of View— explores the expressive power of ballet through a wide range of artistic lenses. From tutus to combat boots, each work offers a bold reinterpretation of classical technique, pushing boundaries while honoring ballet’s rich traditions. This program is asking audiences to shift the focus from pure dance technique to look deeper into the narrative each work is conveying. This compelling program features Madison premieres by Heinz Poll, Tom Mattingly, and Ja’ Malik, as well as an expanded version of Richard Walters’ Weibermacht — a witty, high-energy ballet that brings humor and dynamism to the stage.
Join us for opening night and stay for a post-performance discussion with the choreographers and creatives who bring these diverse visions to life.
The highlight of our 2025-2026 season is a bold celebration of the female choreographic voice. Although women have long been the faces of ballet, they remain vastly underrepresented in choreography —especially women of color. RE:Shaping this narrative, ChoreograpHER serves as a vital platform to amplify their voices and creative visions. This all-female program features world premieres by Endalyn Taylor and Ilana Goldman, and Madison premieres by Caili Quan, Stephanie Martinez and Nathalia Arja, offering audiences a fresh and necessary perspective on the art of dance.
Opening Night Post Performance discussion with the creatives behind this ground breaking program.
Join Us on April 5th for a post performance celebration for Shannon Quirk’s 15 years with Madison Ballet
In this invigorating artistic initiative, the dancers of Madison Ballet step into the role of choreographer, creating new works on one another. Innovation II turns the traditional dynamic on its head, offering a rare glimpse into the creative potential of our artists as they explore storytelling, movement, and collaboration from a fresh reinvented vantage point.
Join us following each performance for a Post Performance discussion with the company artist behind this Innovative program.
