The Music Center has announced the lineup for its 2025–2026 Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center season, spotlighting the triumphant return of New York City Ballet after more than two decades. This electrifying season also includes performances by Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the Music Center debut of Camille A. Brown & Dancers, and a dazzling revival of BalletNOW® curated by Paris Opera Ballet’s Hugo Marchand.
The new season kicks off in September 2025 and offers a captivating mix of classical ballet and contemporary dance. Subscriptions are now available at musiccenter.org, with single tickets on sale starting July 8, 2025.
Season Opens with Camille A. Brown’s I AM
Launching the season at the Ahmanson Theatre from September 12–14, 2025, Camille A. Brown & Dancers make their long-awaited Music Center debut with I AM, a new evening-length work set to original live music. Brown, a five-time Tony® Award-nominated choreographer and director, explores themes of Black joy, imagination, and cultural liberation through dynamic movement inspired by the HBO series Lovecraft Country and the film Drumline.
Complexions Contemporary Ballet Celebrates 30 Years
Returning to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion from October 24–26, 2025, Complexions Contemporary Ballet presents a dynamic program that honors its 30th anniversary. The repertoire includes Retro Suite, featuring classic works by Co-Founding Director Dwight Rhoden, and For Crying Out Loud (2023), set to music from U2’s Songs of Surrender. Known for redefining ballet with athleticism and emotional resonance, the company is hailed as “game-changing” by The Guardian.
Alvin Ailey Returns for Third Year of Residency
From March 25–29, 2026, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues its exclusive Southern California residency with seven performances at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Under new Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack, the company will present classic works from the Ailey repertory—including the iconic Revelations—alongside new choreography that pushes creative boundaries.
New York City Ballet Returns to LA After 20 Years
A major highlight of the season is the long-awaited return of New York City Ballet, performing two programs of mixed repertory from June 24–28, 2026. With works by George Balanchine, Justin Peck, Ulysses Dove, and more, the company offers L.A. audiences a chance to witness its legendary artistry and dynamic future. Program A will feature pieces like Red Angels and The Times Are Racing, while Program B includes Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco and Allegro Brillante, performed with both recorded music and live orchestral accompaniment.
BalletNOW® Returns with Paris Opera Ballet Superstars
The season concludes with The Music Center’s BalletNOW®: Superstars of Paris Featuring Hugo Marchand & Friends, held at Walt Disney Concert Hall from July 31 to August 2, 2026. Marchand, a principal dancer at Paris Opera Ballet, curates an intimate program featuring renowned étoiles and soloists such as Léonore Baulac, Dorothée Gilbert, and Germain Louvet, accompanied by live musicians Elena Bonnay (piano) and Julie Sevilla-Fraysse (cello).
Community Engagement and Arts Access
As part of its mission, The Music Center will host a series of complementary programs including student matinees, artist talks, and free workshops to engage Angelenos of all ages and backgrounds with the power of dance.
“We invite audiences to rise with us this dance season,” said Rachel S. Moore, president and CEO of The Music Center. “These extraordinary artists will stir the soul, ignite our imagination, and connect us in delight and wonder.”
For tickets, full schedule, and more information about the 2025–2026 season, visit musiccenter.org or call (213) 972-0711.
