The Atlanta Ballet will host the premiere of “Frida,” a vibrant tribute to influential artist Frida Kahlo choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, during its 2025-26 season at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
Following the triumphant presentation of Lopez Ochoa’s “Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon” in 2024, which Atlanta Ballet co-commissioned and presented its North American premiere, “Frida” explore the life and loves of the acclaimed Mexican artist. This full-length ballet, presented in four performances May 8-10, 2026, will delve into the story of a fierce artistic and cultural icon through the colorful and evocative imagery of her paintings.
“Each year, we curate a year-long repertoire with a variety of performances that showcase the elegance and vigor of our talented company dancers and empower them to unlock new ways to connect with our audience,” Atlanta Ballet’s Artistic Director Gennadi Nedvigin sadi in a press release. “I’m honored that in my 10th year with Atlanta Ballet, we will premiere a mixed rep of some of the all-time great choreographers – George Balanchine and Justin Peck – and the work of a modern-day master Annabelle Lopez Ochoa with the Atlanta debut of ‘Friday.’ Our season promises to bring exhilarating energy to center stage and will captivate viewers through intricate choreography, iconic storylines and immersive set and costume design.”
Kicking off the season is a collection of works by George Balanchine and Justin Peck with four performances Sept. 12-14.
The two works by Balanchine include “Prodigal Son,” the last of his works for Ballets Russes and featuring music by Sergei Prokofiev, and “Emeralds,” the peak of lyrical romanticism as two leading couples, three soloists and a corps of ten women move gracefully to the music of Gabriel Fauré.
Justin Peck’s contribution to the triple bill is “In Creases,” the first commissioned work he created for New York City Ballet following his time as a soloist and the piece that heralded him as a purveyor of a new era of modern ballet steeped in tradition. “In Creases,” an exploration of shape and symmetry known for its lively and dreamy movements with eight dancers and two pianists on stage, is set to “Four Movements for Two Pianos” by Philip Glass.
Tchaikovsky’s instantly familiar music will usher in holiday performances as the Atlanta Ballet presents its signature production of “The Nutcracker” Dec. 6-27. There will also be an abridged version of “The Nutcracker” for four Kids In Step shows, exposing thousands of additional community children to the magic of dance. Dates for these shows are Dec. 9, 10, 11 and 16.
In the new year, the timeless romantic tale, “Giselle,” returns to the stage from Feb. 13 – 15, 2026, while the season’s family ballet will be “Snow White,” March 28-29, 2026.
On April 3-5, 2026, Atlanta Ballet will debut a Mixed Repertory, featuring Christopher Wheeldon’s colorful ballet, “Within The Golden Hour,” alongside a parade of short works: a world premiere by Yuri Possokhov with additional excerpts from his ballet “Swimmer,” and “Aria” by Val Caniparoli. The program will also include a world premiere by Choreographer-in-Residence Claudia Schreier.
For more information, visit www.atlantaballet.com.
