KANSAS CITY, MO (Feb. 9, 2026) — Artistic Director Devon Carney announced today a new mixed repertory ballet program featuring three short dance works, Stars and Stripes, to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary with a thrilling dance journey. With performances running from March 20-29 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Stars and Stripes will feature three works, George Balanchine’s stirring, eponymous 1958 patriotic masterpiece Stars and Stripes, Agnes de Mille’s Rodeo, an exploration
of the American West set to Aaron Copland’s vibrant score, and a world premiere by innovative choreographer Caili Quan.
Carney said: “At the heart of everything we do is a belief in the power of art to bring people together. This program features three very unique experiences of America, Balanchine’s ecstatic embrace of his adopted homeland in Stars and Stripes, de Mille’s Rodeo, set to Aaron Copland’s folk-infused score, is a seminal American ballet that blends classical technique with western vernacular to tell the exuberant story of a tomboyish cowgirl seeking love and belonging on a ranch, and Caili Quan’s world premiere inspired by Dvorak’s American String Quartet, which he wrote while visiting Iowa! Each of these works offers a glimpse into what America means to these artists. I am so thrilled that our dancers can bring these iconic works to life and be accompanied by the live music of the Kansas City Symphony.”
Celebrate Kansas City Ballet’s tribute to our country’s 250th anniversary with a thrilling dance journey. Experience George Balanchine’s Stars and Stripes, a patriotic masterpiece that dazzles with bold choreography and honors the pride and power of America with lushly orchestrated music that celebrates America. Then, travel to the American West with Agnes de Mille’s Rodeo, a dynamic ballet blending athleticism, energy, and vibrant storytelling. The program will also feature a world premiere by innovative choreographer Caili Quan, whose contemporary works push the boundaries of dance. This unforgettable performance will leave you with a deep appreciation for the power of movement and expression.
Sponsors
This production is presented by Kansas City Ballet Guild and supported by Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts and Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund (NTDF).
Additional support provided by the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation, the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency, help make Kansas City Ballet’s 2025-2026 season possible.
Stars and Stripes
March 20-29, 2026 | Muriel Kauffman Theatre | Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
1601 Broadway, Kansas City MO 64108
Featuring:
Stars and Stripes
Choreography: George Balanchine
Music: John Philip Sousa, orchestrated by Hershy Kay
Celebrate the pride and power of America with Stars and Stripes, a patriotic ballet that dazzles with vibrant energy and bold choreography. Set to the rousing music of John Philip Sousa, this high-energy performance brings the spirit of the nation to life through precision, strength, and vibrant movement. With its military-inspired formations and exhilarating rhythms, Stars and Stripes is a tribute to the unity and pride of the American spirit, making it a must-see celebration of patriotism on stage.
Rodeo
Choreography: Agnes de Mille
Music: Aaron Copland
Experience the thrill and spirit of the American West with Rodeo, a dynamic ballet that combines
athleticism, energy, and vibrant storytelling. Set to an iconic score by Aaron Copland, this captivating performance takes you on a journey through the heart of cowboy culture, blending romance, humor, and high-flying adventure. With stunning choreography and a colorful cast of characters, Rodeo brings the rugged beauty of the frontier to the stage in an unforgettable celebration of dance.
World Premiere
Choreography: Caili Quan
Music: Antonín Dvořák
Caili Quan is an innovative choreographer whose dynamic works push the boundaries of contemporary dance. Known for her bold creativity and thought-provoking storytelling, Quan combines powerful movement with compelling narratives to captivate and inspire audiences. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of both classical and modern techniques, her choreography challenges the status quo and offers fresh perspectives on the art form. Whether creating for the stage or collaborating with dancers, Quan’s vision is both groundbreaking and deeply human, making her one of the most exciting voices in contemporary dance today.
Stars and Stripes
Fri., March 20 7:30 p.m.
Sat., March 21 7:30 p.m.
Sun., March 22 1:30 p.m.
Fri., March 27 7:30 p.m.
Sat., March 28 7:30 p.m.
Sun., March 29 1:30 p.m.
Ticket Information
Purchase single tickets:
- Online at kcballet.org with the Select Your Own Seat capability.
- Call Kansas City Ballet Ticket Office at 816.931.8993, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- At the Kauffman Center Ticket Office and website, kauffmancenter.org
Kansas City Ballet’s website is mobile and ticket-purchase friendly. Ticket prices start at only $34. There is a $9.50 facility and order processing fee per ticket. Prices are subject to change.
Student Rush discount tickets are available approximately one month prior to production, for $24 plus a $5 fee (with valid student ID, one ticket per ID). Purchase online here: kcballet.org/student-rush-tickets or 90-minutes prior to curtain at all performances based on availability. Seniors aged 62 or older and educators who present valid ID at the Kauffman Center Ticket Office 90 minutes prior to all performances (except The Nutcracker) can purchase available rush tickets for as much as 40% off single ticket prices.
Subscribe & Save 20%
Kansas City Ballet’s 2-show season package includes Stars and Stripes and The Great Gatsby and ranges from $54 to $238—a savings of 20% compared with single-ticket prices. Plus, subscribers get the best seats and save 25% when they purchase additional regular single tickets. The 2025-2026 mini-subscriptions are available online at kcballet.org or by calling the Kansas City Ballet Ticket Office.
Parking and Downtown Maps
The Arts District Garage is the primary parking garage for Kansas City Ballet patrons. The garage is directly attached to the Kauffman Center just south of the building with multiple access points to surrounding streets. Purchasing event parking in advance is highly recommended as it often will sell out. Event parking is $16 in advance or $20 at the gate per car for the garage or valet may be purchased in advance for $25 or for $27 upon arrival (if available). To pre-purchase parking and find frequently asked questions about your experience, visit kcballet.org/faqs. Make a night of it! Reserve your room at The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, partner hotel of Kansas City Ballet.
Accessibility
Kansas City Ballet is committed to providing assistance to those with disabilities. Direct questions and requests to Patron Services, 816.931.8993. Callers who are hearing impaired or hard of hearing can get help with telephone access by using the free relay service — 711.
Pre-Curtain Talks
Artistic Director Devon Carney and guest artists offer audience members views on the choreography, history, design elements and music prior to each performance. These informal discussions — known as Belger Footnotes — are free for all ticket holders and are held at the theatre one hour prior to curtain for Kansas City Ballet repertory shows.
Media
Visit kcballet.org/media-center or kauffmancenter.org for a downloadable media kit about Kansas City Ballet and the Kauffman Center. High-res rehearsal and past production photos and more can be found here.
Social Media
Kansas City Ballet’s website is mobile and ticket-purchase friendly. Join the KC Ballet Facebook page, follow us at @kc.ballet on Instagram, LinkedIn at @kansas-city-ballet, and TikTok at @kansascityballet. Watch videos at youtube.com/kansascityballet. Be sure to check out our blog at kcballet.org/blog.
About Kansas City Ballet
MISSION: To Inspire and Engage Through the Beauty, Power & Passion of Dance
VISION: Outstanding Dance Experiences Accessible to All
About the Kansas City Ballet
Founded in 1957, Kansas City Ballet is a 30+ member professional ballet company under the direction of Artistic Director Devon Carney and Executive Director David Gray. Kansas City Ballet is a resident company at the world-class Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and each season features an eclectic repertory including traditional classics and exciting contemporary dances. Our professional company, the second company (comprised of KCB II and Trainees), professional dance school, and partnership programs, seek to nurture and develop our artists, audiences, and students in the values inherent in the creativity, diversity, and joy of dance.
Kansas City Ballet reaches more than 20,000 students and adults each year through our many community partnerships and education programs for all ages. The Kansas City Ballet School offers professional dance training for the career-minded student as well as for those simply seeking a healthy lifestyle for over 2,000 students each year in two locations: the Todd Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity in downtown and our South Campus at Meadowbrook in Prairie Village, KS.
Direct all media inquiries to Ellen McDonald, 816.213.4355 or publicity@kcballet.org.