Festival Ballet Theatre

Festival Ballet Theatre stands as Orange County's premier professional ballet company, dedicated to preserving classical masterpieces while nurturing future generations of dancers and audiences. Since our debut in 1988, we have presented nearly two dozen annual performances that showcase world-renowned choreographers and professional-quality classical productions. Our artistic vision combines reverence for tradition with a commitment to innovation, offering audiences a rich cultural experience through ballet. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Salwa Rizkalla, we maintain rigorous standards of excellence established through decades of community engagement. Our educational initiatives at Southland Ballet Academy provide top-tier classical training, ensuring the continued growth of dance appreciation.

With over 30 years of service, we remain steadfast in our mission to enrich lives through the transformative power of ballet. Our productions feature both timeless classics and contemporary works, reflecting our dedication to artistic diversity. Recognized by local arts organizations and national institutions, we take pride in cultivating cultural appreciation across all age groups. Through performances like The Nutcracker and Don Quixote, we create accessible entry points for new audiences while maintaining technical excellence. Our international collaborations and youth development programs underscore our commitment to advancing ballet as a living art form.