As the leaves turn red and gold, New York City transforms into a tapestry of seasonal beauty. There’s something undeniably charming about strolling through Central Park as autumn leaves dance their way to the ground. The crisp air carries the promise of adventure.
As the city embraces this enchanting season, it's the perfect time to experience the New York City Ballet, a celebration of creativity and movement renowned worldwide. This fall, explore its series of performances promising something for everyone, whether you're a longtime ballet enthusiast or discovering the art for the first time.
From thrilling premieres to beloved classics, New York City Ballet’s fall repertoire showcases the creativity and skill of the world’s finest choreographers and dancers. It’s a chance to connect, be inspired, and share in the joy and beauty of live performance.
The New York City Ballet Fall Programs
The season’s fall schedule features a lineup of mixed repertory programs, kicking off mid-September with All Balanchine I and All Balanchine II. Often hailed as the father of American ballet, George Balanchine revolutionized the dance world with his innovative choreography, blending classical technique with modern flair to create timeless masterpieces. The first of the two programs includes his one-act adaptation of the heart-rending Swan Lake. All Balanchine II showcases the fan-favorite Americana pieces Square Dance and Western Symphony.
Balanchine is also featured in the program Masters at Work I (Masters at Work II will be presented in early 2026) alongside Jerome Robbins. As the two founding choreographers of the New York City Ballet, their visionary works have shaped the company's artistic identity, at once innovative and classical, rooted in traditional yet distinctly modern. Masters at Work I will showcase The Goldberg Variations, a plotless ballet choreographed by Robbins to the music of Bach, and the romantic Tschaikovsky Suite No. 3, choreographed by Balanchine. Both works debuted with NYCB in the early 1970s.
Another fall highlight is the NYCB premiere of Justin Peck’s dynamic Heatscape, a piece originally crafted for the Miami City Ballet in 2015, featuring scenic designs by artist Shepard Fairey (famous for his OBEY streetwear clothing line and the Barack Obama “Hope” campaign poster). It shares the stage with Peter Martins’ lively duo performance, Zakouski, making its first comeback since 2012. Peck began his career as an apprentice dancer at NYCB in 2006 at age 18, and in 2014, he was named Resident Choreographer. Broadway fans will recognize him as the three-time Tony-winning choreographer of Carousel, Illinoise, and Buena Vista Social Club (co-choreographed with Patricia Delgado).
Adding to the fall season excitement, Jamar Roberts, celebrated as a former dancer and Resident Choreographer at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will debut a world premiere at both the Fall Fashion Gala and Contemporary Choreography I programs. These programs also include Gianna Reisen’s inaugural piece for the company, Composer’s Holiday. Additional highlights are the return of Ulysses Dove’s powerful Red Angels and the exhilarating Voices by Artist in Residence Alexei Ratmansky.
The Perennial Favorite, The Nutcracker
As the holidays roll around at the end of autumn, so does New York City Ballet’s beloved production of The Nutcracker. George Balanchine’s exquisite choreography, set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score, have long made this production a holiday tradition in New York City. Lavish sets and costumes bring to life the enchanting journey of young Marie as she ventures into a fantastical world filled with dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and the regal Sugar Plum Fairy. Known for its grandeur and attention to detail, this Nutcracker is a timeless celebration of wonder and imagination, captivating both young and old as they are transported to a whimsical dreamscape where holiday magic truly comes alive.
Why the Ballet?
There's a lyric in the Broadway show A Chorus Line: “Everything is beautiful at the ballet.” It is. But it’s also so much more.
The New York City Ballet offers a rich cultural and intellectual experience. It opens a window into the world of classical music, artistic expression, and storytelling without words. Each performance invites personal interpretation and emotional engagement, sparking reflection on themes, techniques, and historical context. From seasoned ballet buffs to first-time attendees, the experience is sure to broaden perspectives and inspire new appreciations.
It’s also an opportunity to create lasting memories. From marveling at a breathtaking pas de deux to reflecting on the intricate choreography during intermission, the ballet leaves an indelible impression. The gasp at a stunning leap or the quiet laugh at a whimsical scene becomes a part of your own story, moments that resonate long after the curtain falls.
So prepare for an unforgettable experience at the New York City Ballet, and let Broadway Collection assist in planning your visit. As an authorized ticket seller, we ensure your ticket purchase is 100% secure and reliable, so you can focus on enjoying the show. There’s magic in the air this fall, and the New York City Ballet is the perfect way to discover it.