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, and a continued love for America.

Stars and Stripes

Celebrate the pride and power of America with George Balanchine’s 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

Experience the thrill and spirit of the American West with Agnes de Mille’s 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: 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

Set to Sousa's buoyant marches and dressed in Karinska's delightful all-American costumes, Stars and Stripes contains as much pure dancing as many full-length classical ballets.

For all its exuberant patriotic touches, Stars and Stripes contains as much pure dancing as many full-length classical ballets. The work is divided into five “campaigns,” each of which uses different themes from John Philip Sousa’s marches. When asked why he chose to choreograph a ballet to Sousa, Balanchine replied, “Because I like his music.” Stars and Stripes has been performed for many memorable occasions, including Nelson Rockefeller’s inauguration as governor of New York, tributes for Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson, and the opening ceremonies for the New York State Theater (now the David H. Koch Theater) at Lincoln Center. The ballet is dedicated to the memory of Fiorello H. LaGuardia, mayor of New York City from 1934 to 1945 and founder of the City Center of Music and Drama.

Rodeo is a vibrant American ballet by Agnes de Mille, set to Aaron Copland’s iconic score, celebrating the spirit of the American West through humor, energy, and heartfelt storytelling.

Premiered in 1942, Rodeo is one of the most influential works in American ballet history. Choreographed by Agnes de Mille to music by Aaron Copland, the ballet blends classical technique with American folk dance, cowboy gestures, and everyday movement.

The story centers on the Cowgirl, a strong-willed and unconventional young woman who struggles to fit in and to win the affection of the Head Wrangler. Through a series of lively dances and emotional moments, she ultimately finds acceptance and love by embracing her true self.

With its energetic rhythms, accessible storytelling, and iconic movements—most famously in the “Hoedown”—Rodeo captures the optimism, individuality, and open spirit of America. The ballet remains a cornerstone of the classical repertoire and a celebration of American identity on stage.