For over seven decades, the American Repertory Ballet (ARB) has been a cultural cornerstone in New Jersey, bringing world-class ballet to audiences across the state while cultivating the next generation of dancers and arts lovers. Now, the company has revealed its 2025–26 season, and it promises to be one of its most dynamic yet.
Led by Interim Artistic Director Samantha Dunster, alongside Artistic Associate Gillian Murphy and Artist in Residence Ethan Stiefel, the new season balances beloved classics with contemporary works, presenting a program that honors ballet’s timeless traditions while embracing bold new voices in dance.
This carefully curated season will unfold across some of New Jersey’s most prestigious venues, including the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC), McCarter Theatre Center, Two River Theater, and the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC)—ensuring that audiences throughout the Garden State will have access to this extraordinary lineup.
Explore more of New Jersey’s thriving performing arts scene in our theatre section.
Season Highlights
Giselle
- October 10–12, 2025 | NBPAC
The season opens with Ethan Stiefel and Johan Kobborg’s acclaimed adaptation of Giselle, one of ballet’s most treasured romantic works. Known for its haunting themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness, Giselle remains a cornerstone of the ballet repertoire. ARB’s production blends stunning choreography with emotional storytelling, promising an opening weekend filled with artistry and drama.
Swan Lake Act II & More
- October 17, 2025 | UCPAC
This special mixed-repertoire evening places audiences under the spell of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Act II—a segment that has captivated ballet lovers for generations. Complementing the iconic piece will be Ethan Stiefel’s solo if and Lar Lubovitch’s quintet Something About Night. Adding to the magic, the performance will take place under Luke Jerram’s “Museum of the Moon” art installation, creating an immersive visual and musical experience unlike anything else in the state this season.
The Nutcracker
- November 28–December 21, 2025 | McCarter Theatre, Two River Theater, State Theatre New Jersey
No holiday season in New Jersey is complete without ARB’s annual production of The Nutcracker. This beloved tradition returns with lavish sets, dazzling costumes, and enchanting performances that delight families year after year.
Performances will take place across multiple venues:
- McCarter Theatre Center: Nov. 28–30
- Two River Theater: Dec. 6–7
- State Theatre New Jersey: Dec. 18–21
The New Brunswick performances at the State Theatre will be accompanied by a live orchestra and the Princeton GirlChoir, adding a rich, full sound to this seasonal favorite.
Cinderella
- March 6–8, 2026 | NBPAC
This spring, ARB brings fairy tale magic to life with Samantha Dunster’s choreography for Cinderella. With whimsical sets, dazzling costumes, and a score that dances between elegance and playfulness, this production offers something for all ages. It’s the perfect ballet for families and anyone who believes in happily-ever-afters.
Americana
- May 1–3, 2026 | NBPAC
The season concludes with a celebratory program titled Americana, designed to honor the nation’s 250th anniversary. Highlights include George Balanchine’s patriotic masterpiece Stars and Stripes and several world premieres that showcase ARB’s commitment to pushing ballet forward. This finale will combine tradition with innovation, offering audiences a rousing conclusion to a landmark season.
A Season Rooted in Community
Beyond the performances, ARB continues its mission to engage with the New Jersey community. Through educational outreach, partnerships with local schools, and workshops that inspire new generations of dancers, ARB ensures that the art of ballet remains vibrant and accessible across the state.
“Each season, our goal is to honor ballet’s past while inspiring the future,” said Interim Artistic Director Samantha Dunster. “This year’s lineup reflects that balance—we’re bringing beloved classics to the stage while also giving space for innovative works that keep ballet evolving.”
Ticket Information
Tickets for the 2025–26 American Repertory Ballet season will be available through ARB’s official website and through the websites of individual host venues. Admission varies depending on location and seating, but early purchase is recommended as these performances traditionally sell out quickly.
For those who wish to experience the breadth of ARB’s season, subscription packages offer the best value and guarantee seats for the most anticipated productions.
Looking Ahead
The American Repertory Ballet has long been more than a performing arts company—it’s a symbol of New Jersey’s thriving cultural landscape. With a season that brings together Giselle, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and a patriotic grand finale, ARB is once again proving why it remains one of the state’s most beloved institutions.
Whether you’re a lifelong ballet enthusiast or attending your very first performance, the 2025–26 ARB season promises to deliver moments of beauty, artistry, and unforgettable storytelling.
