2025 - 2026 Season
Masterpieces
Canyon Concert Ballet is proud to unveil its highly anticipated 2025-2026 season, Masterpieces, a dynamic and inspiring lineup of performances showcasing timeless classics, bold reimaginings, and groundbreaking new works. With a diverse range of productions featuring emerging choreographers, world premieres, and collaborations with the Fort Collins Symphony, Masterpieces promises to be an unforgettable season of artistic excellence.
Artistic Director Michael Pappalardo, now in his fourth season leading the company, shares his excitement: “This season is a true celebration of ballet as both an evolving art form and a cherished tradition. We’re thrilled to present beloved classics alongside innovative new works that push the boundaries of storytelling and movement.”
Dracula.
Just in time for the Halloween season, the timeless tale of Dracula rises once again—more haunting and thrilling than ever before. Presented in a powerful collaboration with the Fort Collins Symphony, this spellbinding ballet promises an unforgettable night of drama, romance, and spine-tingling suspense.
Experience the chilling elegance of Dracula as it unfolds on stage with a full live orchestra, enhancing every movement with an evocative score that immerses audiences in the eerie beauty of Transylvania. From the sweeping passion of forbidden love to the heart-pounding terror of the undead, this gothic masterpiece captures the essence of the season.
Featuring stunning choreography, dramatic lighting, and lavish costumes, Dracula is more than a ballet—it’s a fully immersive theatrical experience. Whether you're a lover of the macabre, a ballet enthusiast, or simply seeking a mesmerizing evening out, this production offers something for everyone.
Don’t miss your chance to witness the return of this audience favorite. Sink your teeth into the magic—Dracula is back, and he's waiting.
The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins - October 2025
The Nutcracker.
The beloved holiday tradition returns to the stage as The Nutcracker enchants audiences of all ages with its timeless story, dazzling choreography, and sweeping live music performed by the Fort Collins Symphony. Step into a world of wonder as Clara journeys through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, guided by the Nutcracker Prince and surrounded by swirling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy.
With breathtaking sets, sparkling costumes, and unforgettable characters, The Nutcracker is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the holiday season. This cherished production continues to capture hearts in Fort Collins and, for the first time, expands its reach to include performances in Cheyenne and Steamboat Springs, spreading festive cheer across Northern Colorado and Southern Wyoming.
Whether you're starting a new tradition or returning for another season of holiday magic, The Nutcracker is a must-see experience for families, friends, and dreamers of all ages.
Celebrate the season with joy, wonder, and the magic of live performance—join us for The Nutcracker!
The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins - December 2025
Steamboat Springs - December 12 & 13
Cheyenne Civic Center - December 19 & 20
The Nutcracker Sweets.
Introduce your little ones to the magic of ballet with Nutcracker Sweets—a delightful, family-friendly adaptation of the beloved holiday classic! Specially crafted for young audiences, this enchanting production captures the spirit of The Nutcracker in a condensed, one-hour format that’s perfect for first-time theatergoers and longtime fans alike.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Nutcracker Sweets brings all the wonder and whimsy of the season to life with colorful costumes, charming characters, and engaging storytelling. Children will be captivated as Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and the Sugar Plum Fairy dance through a winter wonderland and the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets—all performed by talented dancers in an inviting and accessible setting.
Presented in Loveland, this heartwarming production is an ideal holiday outing for families, school groups, and anyone looking to share the joy of live performance with the next generation.
Spark imagination, create lasting memories, and celebrate the season with Nutcracker Sweets—the perfect introduction to the world of ballet!
The Rialto, Loveland - December 21 & 22
Swan Lake.
Prepare to be captivated by a bold reimagining of one of ballet’s most iconic and beloved masterpieces. Swan Lake (Reimagined) soars to new heights with an innovative vision that honors the emotional depth and grandeur of Tchaikovsky’s original while offering a strikingly fresh perspective for contemporary audiences.
This groundbreaking production features all-new choreography that breathes dynamic life into the familiar tale of love, betrayal, and transformation. With dramatic re-staging, imaginative storytelling, and visually stunning design elements—including evocative lighting, multimedia projections, and avant-garde costuming—Swan Lake (Reimagined) invites audiences to experience the classic like never before.
At its heart, the soul of Swan Lake remains—Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, the poignant romance of Odette and Prince Siegfried, and the timeless struggle between light and darkness. But through this daring new lens, the ballet becomes a thrilling journey of self-discovery and resilience, resonating with today’s audiences in powerful new ways.
Whether you're a longtime lover of classical ballet or new to the art form, Swan Lake (Reimagined) promises a breathtaking theatrical experience that challenges expectations and celebrates the enduring magic of dance.
The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins - January 2026
Innovation.
Celebrate the bold spirit of American dance with Innovation—a dynamic tribute to the power of creativity, individuality, and artistic evolution. This electrifying program showcases original works by some of the nation’s most exciting emerging choreographers, offering a fresh perspective on the future of ballet.
Pushing boundaries and redefining tradition, Innovation explores the rich diversity of American voices through movement—blending classical technique with contemporary expression to create something wholly new, relevant, and deeply resonant. From emotionally charged solos to high-energy ensemble pieces, each work in the program reveals a unique choreographic vision that speaks to the complexity and vibrancy of our time.
With bold staging, cutting-edge music, and fearless storytelling, Innovation is more than a performance—it’s a celebration of the ever-evolving landscape of American dance and a platform for the next generation of artistic trailblazers.
Be part of this exhilarating evening that honors where ballet has been—and where it's boldly going. Experience the raw energy, daring ideas, and unforgettable artistry of Innovation.
The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins - March 2026
Ballet & Beer.
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of creativity, community, and craft brews at Ballet & Beer—a vibrant, one-night-only showcase celebrating the next generation of local choreographic talent. This unique event invites audiences to experience fresh, innovative dance works in a casual, up-close setting where the artistry feels immediate, personal, and alive.
Featuring a curated lineup of emerging choreographers from the region, Ballet & Beer offers an exciting glimpse into the future of dance—highlighting bold new voices, experimental movement styles, and original perspectives. From contemporary ballet to genre-blending works, each piece promises something unexpected and thought-provoking.
Held in an intimate venue with a relaxed, social atmosphere, this informal performance breaks down the traditional barriers between performers and audience. Grab a drink, take a seat, and immerse yourself in an evening of artistic exploration. With opportunities to meet the choreographers, learn about their creative process, and mingle with fellow dance lovers, Ballet & Beer is as much a conversation as it is a performance.
Don’t miss this lively, one-of-a-kind event where dance meets dialogue, and inspiration flows as freely as the beer. Cheers to creativity—Ballet & Beer awaits!
Bas Bleu Theater, Fort Collins - May 2026
Alice In Wonderland.
Tumble down the rabbit hole and into a world of whimsy, imagination, and delightful absurdity with Alice in Wonderland—a brand-new, full-length ballet unlike anything you’ve seen before. Presented in an extraordinary collaboration with the Fort Collins Symphony, this fantastical production features an original score that brings Lewis Carroll’s beloved tale to life with breathtaking beauty and emotional depth.
Join Alice as she journeys through a surreal dreamscape filled with eccentric characters, curious creatures, and mind-bending adventures. From the mischievous Cheshire Cat to the flamboyant Mad Hatter and the imperious Queen of Hearts, each moment bursts with color, movement, and theatrical flair.
With striking choreography, stunning sets and costumes, and a richly textured musical landscape performed live by the Fort Collins Symphony, Alice in Wonderland promises an unforgettable theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the classic story or discovering it for the first time, this magical ballet will transport you to a place where logic bends, time races, and wonder never ends.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this visually spectacular and musically vibrant world premiere—Alice in Wonderland is your ticket to the ultimate adventure in dance.
The Lincoln Center, Fort Collins - June 2026