San Diego Ballet

The San Diego Ballet (SDB) is a distinguished dance company based in San Diego, California, renowned for its dynamic and diverse performances that span classical ballet to contemporary dance. Founded in 1991 as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, the company has been under the artistic direction of the visionary choreographer Javier Velasco, who has been instrumental in shaping the company's unique identity. SDB's mission is to excite, enrich, and entertain a wide-ranging audience with imaginative presentations of high-quality classical and contemporary dance. The company prides itself on its varied repertoire, which includes original works that have garnered growth and critical acclaim. These pieces often feature collaborations with prominent figures and organizations, such as jazz icon Charles McPherson, and respected institutions like the San Diego Symphony and the San Diego Chamber Orchestra. The company has staged numerous notable performances, including classical pieces like "The Nutcracker," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Romeo & Juliet," as well as works by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine, such as "Serenade," "Concerto Barroco," and "Rubies." SDB's original productions are diverse, ranging from "Sweet Synergy Suite" and "Mambomania" to "Luna Lunera" and "Opus Swing," showcasing the company's versatility and commitment to innovation in dance. The San Diego Ballet has received accolades from both the public and critics, being voted the number one dance troupe by the readers of the San Diego Union-Tribune and BestofSanDiego.com. The company's educational programs are also a cornerstone of its community engagement, with the San Diego Ballet School providing training and outreach programs to foster the next generation of dancers. The company's commitment to education is further exemplified by its pre-professional summer intensive programs, which offer advanced training opportunities for aspiring dancers. SDB's outreach extends to school performances and educational initiatives that aim to make dance accessible to a broader audience. In addition to its performance and educational endeavors, the San Diego Ballet actively engages with its community through various support initiatives, including programs like "Adopt A Dancer" and "Get to the Pointe," which encourage patron involvement and financial support for the company's artistic mission. The San Diego Ballet continues to contribute to the cultural landscape of San Diego and beyond, with its innovative choreography, talented dancers, and a commitment to the arts. The company invites audiences to experience the transformative power of dance and to join them in celebrating the art form's beauty and expressiveness.