Rochester's cultural scene is set to dazzle with a captivating series of ballet and dance performances. From the innovative reimagining of Anastasia with the Rochester City Ballet to the timeless holiday classic, The Nutcracker, and the dramatic retelling of Romeo and Juliet, audiences are in for a treat. These events blend the powerful compositions of Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev, and modern works by Aaron Jay Kernis, promising an unforgettable experience of music, movement, and artistry.

Rochester's Ballet Renaissance: A Fusion of Music and Dance

The Dance Festival continues with a remarkable fusion of music and movement, led by Andreas Delfs. The evening begins with the lively overture to The Merry Wives of Windsor before piano virtuoso Jean-Yves Thibaudet takes on a thrilling world premiere by Aaron Jay Kernis (Voices of Today commission). Rochester City Ballet then brings Shakespeare’s greatest love story to life in Delfs’ own arrangement of Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet Suite. Passion, finesse, and drama take center stage!

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DANCE FESTIVAL: Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Rochester City Ballet

Eastman Theatre

RPO: Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Rochester City Ballet

Your Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester City Ballet celebrate 26 years of a holiday tradition: The Nutcracker at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre! Be whisked away to a magical land of sparkling snow and delectable sweets as Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score pairs with beautiful ballet. This story of a young girl’s Christmas Eve dream never fails to touch the heart!

THE NUTCRACKER with Rochester City Ballet

RPO: The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet

“This first-time collaboration between SCMR and Rochester City Ballet presents a brand new ballet based on the story of Anastasia. The family-friendly production will feature the gorgeous music of Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence as well as Glière along with the late Ukrainian composer, Hanna Havrylets.” -Juliana Athayde and Erik Behr, Artistic Directors

Anastasia Re-Imagined with Rochester City Ballet

Nazareth University

Experience the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's Centennial Season Gala, a grand celebration marking a century of musical excellence. This event promises an evening of elegance and nostalgia, featuring a full orchestra performance that journeys through the rich history of the RPO while offering a glimpse into its future. The gala will be a blend of auditory and visual splendor, with the orchestra's harmonious melodies complemented by a retrospective of its most memorable moments. Attendees will be treated to a curated selection of pieces that highlight the RPO's legacy, showcasing the talents of its esteemed musicians under the baton of a distinguished conductor. This milestone event is not just a concert but a tribute to the enduring impact of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra on the cultural landscape.

Carnival Of The Animals

The Hochstein School

Your Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester City Ballet celebrate 25 years of The Nutcracker at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre! This timeless tale of wonder and imagination has become a Rochester holiday tradition. Be whisked away to a magical land of sparkling snow and delectable sweets as delightful dance pairs with Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score. This beloved story of a young girl’s Christmas Eve dream never fails to touch the heart!

The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet

The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Music Director Andreas Delfs present — RPO Eclipse Spectacular: A Symphonic Celebration on Sunday, April 7 at 7 PM at the Blue Cross Arena.

Imagine walking into an arena transformed into a space-themed extravaganza – the atrium filled with family friendly activities and learning experiences, local museums and organizations, vendors, entertainment – and even a piece of space history.

RPO Eclipse Spectacular: A Symphonic Celebration

War Memorial

The Nutcracker’s timeless tale of wonder and imagination has captivated audiences for nearly 130 years and has become a Rochester holiday tradition. Be whisked away to a magical land of sparkling snow and delectable sweets as enchanting dance from Rochester City Ballet pairs with Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, performed in all its glory by the RPO. This beloved story of a young girl’s Christmas Eve dream never fails to touch the heart!

Rochester City Ballet

Jan 31 - Feb 1, 2026

DANCE FESTIVAL: Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Rochester City Ballet

Jan 31 - Feb 1, 2026

RPO: Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Rochester City Ballet

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Rochester City Ballet