Get your magnifying glass and Calabash pipe ready, because Nashville Ballet presents the Tennessee premiere of Sherlock on Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 3 at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Polk Theater.
The performance is part of its annual contemporary “Attitude” series, featuring three distinct productions, to close the company’s 2025–26 Ruby Season.
The program also features the world premiere of Lumina by Maria A. Konrad and Wake the Neighbors by Tony Award–nominated choreographer Donald Byrd, offering audiences a dynamic evening of three contemporary ballets that blend theatrical storytelling, powerful music and striking visual design.
Inspired by the legendary detective created by Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock brings the iconic character to life through choreography and theatrical staging. Choreographer Penny Saunders returns to the company with this premiere, which explores the brilliant and enigmatic mind of the world’s most famous detective.
“Attitude is where we push boundaries and showcase the extraordinary versatility of our dancers,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO of Nashville Ballet. “With Sherlock leading the program alongside a work by Donald Byrd and a new world premiere by Maria A. Konrad, audiences will experience contemporary ballet that is theatrical and engaging.”
Across the three works, Nashville Ballet’s company artists bring distinct physical and dramatic qualities to each piece, highlighting the ensemble’s range and versatility.
The evening opens with Wake the Neighbors by Tony Award–nominated choreographer Donald Byrd. Audiences will then enjoy the World Premiere of Lumina by renowned choreographer Maria A. Konrad. The culmination of the evening will be the presentation of Sherlock, featuring original costumes, noir-inspired lighting and production design, and incorporating vintage 1940s radio broadcasts from The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
For tickets or more information about Nashville Ballet, visit NashvilleBallet.com.
