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May 17, 2025

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Nashville Ballet Unveils 2025-26 Season Lineup

The 40th anniversary season includes beloved classics "Nashville’s Nutcracker," "Swan Lake" and "Sherlock."

Always keeping Middle Tennessee on its toes, the Nashville Ballet invites audiences for their 40th anniversary season — a.k.a. The Ruby Season for 2025-26 under the artistic direction of Nick Mullikin.

Appreciators of the classics can enjoy Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling’s Emmy Award-winning Nashville’s Nutcracker and Swan Lake, all set to music performed by the Nashville Symphony.

In October, dance-lovers looking for something more contemporary can see elegance and rock ‘n’ roll collide with If I Can Dream. The performance begins with George Balanchine’s Rubies and Jiří Kylián’s hauntingly beautiful Un Ballo set to live music by the Nashville Symphony. A bold tribute to Elvis Presley headlines the performance that celebrates rhythm, rebellion and the timeless power of movement.

The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the wonder and excitement of Nashville’s Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director Emeritus Paul Vasterling. Then in February, get swept away as Vasterling’s Swan Lake returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall stage for the first time since 2018.

Next May, you’ll step into the shadows and follow the clues as Nashville Ballet concludes their 2025–26 season with Penny Saunder’s Sherlock — which will be the centerpiece of their annual Attitude series.

“Our company is known for its commitment to artistry and sharing our passion for dance with a musical experience that enriches every part of the senses,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director and CEO. “With so many incredible offerings for our 40th season, we carefully curated this collection of works with the community in mind. Our season ticket holders or package attendees play a vital role in funding our ability to showcase art that inspires, heightens emotions and provides a truly visceral experience that memories are made of.”

To learn more about Nashville Ballet, please visit NashvilleBallet.com.

Nashville Ballet 2025-26 Season Lineup:

If I Can Dream
October 10-12, 2025
Polk Theater, TPAC

Nashville’s Nutcracker
November 29 – December 28, 2025
Jackson Hall, TPAC

Swan Lake
February 28 – March 1, 2026
Jackson Hall, TPAC

Sherlock
May 1-3, 2026
Polk Theater, TPAC

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About the Author

Michael Aldrich

Michael Aldrich is Nashville Parent's Managing Editor and a Middle Tennessee arts writer. He and his wife, Alison, are the proud parents of 4-year-old Ezra and baby Norah.