State Street Ballet

State Street Ballet is a renowned professional ballet company based in Santa Barbara, California. It was founded in 1994 by Rodney Gustafson, an esteemed former dancer with the Houston Ballet. The company is known for its innovative approach to the art form, blending classical ballet with contemporary techniques to appeal to a wide audience. State Street Ballet frequently collaborates with composers, musicians, and visual artists to create unique and engaging performances. The company tours nationally and internationally, engaging diverse audiences with its dynamic productions. It is particularly noted for its educational outreach programs, aiming to make ballet accessible to young people and foster an appreciation for the performing arts. The company's repertoire includes both classical ballets, such as 'The Nutcracker,' and original works often inspired by literature, popular culture, or historical events.