Atlanta Ballet Opens its New Season with Passion & Pride
Wednesday, August 26th, 2026
Atlanta Ballet launches its 2026-27 season with Passion & Pride, a mixed-repertory program that pairs intimate collaboration with exuberant celebration. The trio of works features Significant Others by Remi Wörtmeyer, the world premiere of Plagued Housesby Melissa Hough and Stars and Stripes by George Balanchine, on stage Sept. 18–20, 2026, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
“Passion & Pride is a powerful way to begin our new season, bringing together three works that span the breadth of ballet, from a cherished classic by George Balanchine to a world premiere by Melissa Hough,” said Gennadi Nedvigin, artistic director of Atlanta Ballet. “The program highlights the remarkable artistry and versatility of our dancers. With all three works created in America, it also offers a timely celebration as we commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary.”
Significant Others, choreographed by Remi Wörtmeyer, returns to the Atlanta stage after debuting with the company in 2023 as his first major commission in North America. Inspired by the music of Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel and the art of Sonia Delaunay, the work celebrates the transformative power of love, partnerships and connections of all kinds. In addition to developing the choreography, Wörtmeyer also designed the costumes and scenic elements, uniting movement, music and visual art in one captivating collaboration.
Also featured is Plagued Houses, a world premiere by acclaimed choreographer Melissa Hough, a principal dancer at Norwegian National Ballet. Known for strong technique, clean lines and precise musicality, Hough draws on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and sets her new work to the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The piece combines neoclassical structure with contemporary fluidity, with costume and scenic design by Emma Kingsbury.
Rounding out the trio is “Father of American Ballet” George Balanchine's Stars and Stripes, a cheerful salute set to the marches of John Philip Sousa, including the beloved "Stars and Stripes Forever." A celebratory tribute to the 250th anniversary of the nation's independence, the ballet showcases Balanchine's signature style and deep affection for his adopted country with staging by Balanchine Repetiteur Paul Boos, costumes by Barbara Karinska and scenic design by David Hays. Stars and Stripes is presented by arrangement with The George Balanchine Trust.
For more information about Atlanta Ballet's production of Passion & Pride and to purchase tickets, please visit atlantaballet.com/performances/passion-and-pride . Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre box office. For groups of 10 or more, please order tickets at groupsales@atlantaballet.com .
