The National Ballet of Canada has unveiled an extraordinary 2026/2027 season as part of its 75th anniversary celebrations. The season combines beloved classics, groundbreaking contemporary works and special events that honour the company’s rich artistic legacy while looking toward the future.

From the romance of Romeo and Juliet to the timeless splendour of The Sleeping Beauty, audiences will experience a diverse programme that showcases the remarkable talent of the company’s dancers, musicians and creative teams.

Celebrating 75 Years of Artistic Excellence

The 2026/2027 season reflects the company’s enduring commitment to innovation and excellence. Several productions revisit important works from the National Ballet’s history, while others introduce fresh perspectives from internationally acclaimed choreographers.

In addition, the season highlights the company’s strong connection to live music. New creations, family favourites and emerging artists all play an important role in this milestone year.

As a result, audiences can look forward to performances that celebrate both tradition and artistic evolution.

A Season of Classics and Contemporary Vision

The programme balances large-scale narrative ballets with contemporary masterpieces. Iconic works by John Cranko, Rudolf Nureyev and George Balanchine appear alongside creations by Crystal Pite, Sol León, Paul Lightfoot, David Dawson and Val Caniparoli.

Furthermore, the season provides opportunities for audiences of all ages to experience ballet. Family-friendly productions sit alongside thought-provoking contemporary works, ensuring broad appeal throughout the year.

2026/2027 Performance Line-Up

October 31 – November 8, 2026: Romeo and Juliet

John Cranko’s celebrated adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragic love story returns for the first time since 2009. Sweeping choreography, dramatic storytelling and unforgettable characters bring Verona’s star-crossed lovers vividly to life on stage.

November 13 – 20, 2026: Emergence / Silent Screen

This contemporary double bill pairs Crystal Pite’s powerful Emergence with Silent Screen by Sol León and Paul Lightfoot. Together, the works explore human connection, collective behaviour, memory and the expressive possibilities of dance.

December 5 – 31, 2026: The Nutcracker

James Kudelka’s beloved holiday classic follows Marie and Misha on a magical journey to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s kingdom. Filled with wonder, imagination and festive charm, it remains a treasured seasonal tradition.

February 26 – March 4, 2027: Echoes of Stravinsky

Celebrating the company’s commitment to live music, this triple bill features Christopher Wheeldon’s Scènes de Ballet, Balanchine’s Stravinsky Violin Concerto and Medhi Walerski’s Chamber, showcasing exceptional musicianship and dynamic choreography.

March 13 – 21, 2027: Dr. Coppelius

Val Caniparoli reimagines the beloved story of Coppélia with fresh creativity and visual splendour. This new interpretation combines humour, fantasy and theatrical storytelling while introducing audiences to an imaginative new perspective.

March 24, 2027: The Erik Bruhn Festival of Emerging Artists

This special one-night event highlights outstanding young dancers and choreographers from leading ballet companies worldwide. The festival honours former Artistic Director Erik Bruhn while celebrating the next generation of artistic talent.

June 5 – 12, 2027: The Beginning of Forever

Resident Choreographer David Dawson presents his first original creation for the company since 2025. Emotionally powerful and technically demanding, the ballet explores human connection, transformation and the expressive possibilities of movement.

June 18 – 27, 2027: The Sleeping Beauty

Rudolf Nureyev’s magnificent production returns as one of the company’s defining works. Lavish staging, classical technique and Tchaikovsky’s celebrated score combine to create one of ballet’s most enduring masterpieces.

Looking Ahead

The National Ballet of Canada’s 75th anniversary season honours a remarkable legacy while embracing the future. Through a blend of classical storytelling, contemporary innovation and emerging artistic voices, the company continues to inspire audiences across Canada and beyond.

Whether experiencing a cherished favourite or discovering a new work, ballet lovers can expect a season filled with beauty, emotion and world-class artistry.