Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Ballet Arts in Kansas City
Founded in 1957, Kansas City Ballet stands as a premier professional ballet company dedicated to nurturing artists, audiences, and students through the transformative power of dance. Our 30-member professional company, led by Artistic Director Devon Carney and Executive Director David Gray, delivers world-class performances that celebrate creativity, diversity, and the joy of movement. Through our Second Company, Trainees, and nationally recognized ballet school, we cultivate the next generation of dancers while offering accessible education programs for all ages. With locations in downtown Kansas City and Johnson County, our faculty of over 50 instructors provides comprehensive training grounded in excellence.The companys community programs extend our mission beyond the stage, fostering inclusivity and engagement through outreach initiatives. Each season, we present iconic classics like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker alongside innovative contemporary works, ensuring a dynamic repertoire that resonates with diverse audiences. Our commitment to artistic integrity and community enrichment has solidified our reputation as a cultural cornerstone in the Midwest. From student matinees to fundraising galas, we create immersive experiences that connect people through the universal language of dance. As we continue our legacy, we remain dedicated to advancing the art form while making ballet accessible to all.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Programs
School Performances
Special Events
Details
- Year established: 1957
Highlights and features
- We have over 65 years of excellence in professional ballet and education.
- Our company includes 30 professional dancers and a nationally recognized school.
- We offer accessible programs for all ages, from recreational to pre-professional training.
- Our diverse repertoire spans classical masterpieces and contemporary innovations.
- We engage the community through outreach, student matinees, and inclusive events.
What people say
Breathtaking performances
Excellent storytelling
Accessible programs
Engaging educational initiatives
Diverse repertoire
Services
Ballet Performances
Kansas City Ballet presents professional productions of classical and contemporary works, including iconic titles like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. Our performances showcase technical mastery and artistic storytelling, engaging audiences of all ages. Each season features main company shows, school performances, and special events at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
Dance Education
Our school offers a comprehensive curriculum for aspiring dancers, from recreational classes to pre-professional training. With over 50 instructors, we provide instruction in multiple locations for students aged 3 to adults. Programs include summer intensives, youth divisions, and adult classes designed for all skill levels.
Community Programs
We bring ballet to the community through accessible programs like student matinees, sensory-friendly performances, and educational partnerships. These initiatives aim to make dance inclusive and available to underserved populations while fostering appreciation for the art form across diverse audiences.
Special Events
Annual events like the Nutcracker Ball and Performing Arts Sampler support our mission while offering unique cultural experiences. These gatherings combine performances, networking, and philanthropy to strengthen community ties and ensure the sustainability of our artistic programs.
School Performances
Designed for educational audiences, these performances include daytime matinees and family-friendly productions. They provide accessible exposure to ballet for schools and families, often featuring interactive elements and post-show activities to enhance engagement with the art form.
People
Devon Carney
Artistic Director
Devon Carney, Artistic Director since 2013, brings decades of experience as a dancer and choreographer. He oversees creative direction, productions, and company development while maintaining strong ties to the dance community.
David Gray
Executive Director
David Gray leads administrative operations, strategic planning, and organizational growth. With extensive arts management experience, he ensures the company's financial health and community impact align with its artistic mission.
Oliver Till
School Director
Oliver Till directs the ballet school's curriculum and faculty. He oversees educational programs, instructor development, and student training initiatives to maintain the school's reputation for excellence in dance education.
Kaleena Burks
Company Dancer
Kaleena Burks is a principal dancer known for her versatility in classical and contemporary roles. She performs leading parts in major productions and participates in community engagement activities and educational outreach.
Marisa DeEtte Whiteman
Company Dancer
Marisa DeEtte Whiteman performs with the company while contributing to educational programs. She shares her expertise through workshops and represents the company in outreach initiatives that connect with local communities.
Questions
What types of performances does Kansas City Ballet offer?
We present classical masterpieces like Swan Lake, contemporary works, family-friendly productions, and special events including the annual Nutcracker Ball.
Are student tickets available?
Yes, we offer Student Rush tickets for $24 plus fees for high school and college students attending performances.
Does the ballet school accept adult students?
Our Open Division welcomes teens and adults for recreational dance instruction in a supportive environment.
How does the company engage with the community?
We offer student matinees, sensory-friendly performances, outreach programs, and partnerships that make ballet accessible to diverse audiences.
Where are performances held?
Mainstage productions occur at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Kansas City.
What educational resources are available?
We provide a comprehensive curriculum from beginner to pre-professional levels, summer intensives, and interactive quizzes to help find the right class.
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