Charlotte Ballet traces its roots back many decades, evolving through names and leadership changes until becoming the organization we know today. Its main studio and administrative offices are found at 701 N. Tryon Street, where dancers and staff work throughout the year to bring vibrant performances to life. The atmosphere inside is both calm and energetic. Walk down the corridor on any weekday afternoon, and you might hear music streaming from multiple studios as dancers repeat intricate sequences over and over.
The company has gained a reputation for fusing two worlds: the grace of time-honored ballets and the daring approach of modern choreographic voices. Audiences are consistently treated to variety, with each season featuring a mix of heritage pieces and cutting-edge new works. Dancers bring technical prowess and enthusiasm to the stage, backed by the leadership of visionary artistic mentors. Observing rehearsals, you’ll notice a united spirit among the performers, who support each other with quiet pointers in the corners of the studio. And beyond the stage, the ballet’s robust education and outreach efforts strengthen community ties all around Charlotte and its surrounding areas.
The 2025 Shows at a Glance
Before diving into tips, background, and personal anecdotes, let’s lay out the official schedule. All dates and show titles are subject to minor adjustments, so the Charlotte Ballet website (www.charlotteballet.org) remains the best source for the most current information. In general, performances take place at two main venues: the Knight Theater, located at 430 S. Tryon Street, and the Belk Theater, located at 130 N. Tryon Street. Dates and ticket times vary:
A Thematic Shift in Movement: Spring–Summer 2025 with Charlotte Ballet
Have you ever tried moving through a space that’s constantly in flux? Choreographer Johan Inger explores that experience with Walking Mad, taking cues from an environment that never sits still and perhaps reflecting life’s balancing acts. Alongside Inger’s work, Alejandro Cerrudo will present his first ballet for Charlotte, anchored by two fan-favorites, PACOPEPEPLUTO and Cloudless. Each piece touches on expressive freedom, heightened by an artistic portrayal of near-nudity that brings an extra touch of authenticity.
Walking Mad / PACOPEPEPLUTO / Cloudless
- Dates: March 20–29, 2025
- Venue: Knight Theater (430 S. Tryon Street)
- Showtimes:
- Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM
- Saturdays at 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
- Sundays at 2:00 PM
Tickets are available now at www.charlotteballet.org or by calling the box office at 704-372-1000.
Carmen
May 2–11, 2025 | Knight Theater (430 S. Tryon Street)
Andrea Schermoly offers a vivid reinterpretation of the classic tale of Carmen, set against a 1973 Las Vegas showgirl backdrop. A live arrangement by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra brings fresh energy to this production, weaving seduction, passion, and love into a haunting conclusion. Two men battle for Carmen’s attention, and her path is filled with emotional twists and heartbreaking consequences.
Please note: Certain scenes may address mature themes.
- Showtimes:
- Mondays–Fridays at 7:30 PM
- Saturdays at 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
- Sundays at 2:00 PM
Tickets are on sale now. Visit www.charlotteballet.org or call 704-372-1000 to secure seating.
FLIP: Choreographic Workshop
June 5–14, 2025 | Center for Dance (701 N. Tryon Street)
This series highlights a meaningful shift for Charlotte Ballet’s dancers, who temporarily step away from their role on stage to become choreographers and creative leads. FLIP: Choreographic Workshop allows artists to reveal personal stories and develop new professional skills. It’s a window into the mind of each dancer, who shapes the narrative from concept to final performance.
- Showtimes:
- Thursdays & Fridays at 7:30 PM
- Saturdays at 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
- Sundays at 2:00 PM
Tickets are now available. For details on seating or group discounts, head to www.charlotteballet.org or contact 704-372-1000.
Tips for Enjoying Your Visit
- Arrive Early
Aim to be at the venue 30 minutes before curtain. This gives you time for parking, ticket pickup, and finding your seat without rushing. - Parking
Uptown Charlotte features multiple garages within walking distance of the Knight Theater and the Center for Dance. Rates vary, so planning a little extra time is wise. - Dress Code
The atmosphere is relaxed. Some attendees dress up, but you’ll see a spectrum of styles—so pick what makes you comfortable. - Before or After the Show
If you’re at the Knight Theater, stroll through the nearby art museums on the Levine Center for the Arts campus. For the Center for Dance, explore cafes and eateries along N. Tryon Street and surrounding blocks.
Each performance this spring and summer highlights the versatility of Charlotte Ballet, spanning timeless stories, visionary choreography, and original works created from within the company. Whether you prefer a classic narrative with a modern twist or an intimate look at the choreographic process, these productions offer something unique for every dance enthusiast.
Exploring Uptown Before and After
If you decide to make a day of it, Uptown Charlotte offers plenty of attractions:
- Levine Museum of the New South (200 E. 7th Street): Open 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (Tuesday–Saturday) and 12:00 PM–5:00 PM on Sundays. It provides interactive exhibits about the post–Civil War development of the South.
- Bechtler Museum of Modern Art (420 S. Tryon Street): Showcases a diverse collection of mid-20th-century modern art. Hours vary, so check their official site.
- Mint Museum Uptown (500 S. Tryon Street): Packed with American, European, and contemporary art.
- NASCAR Hall of Fame (400 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd): A fun option, even for folks who aren’t racing enthusiasts. The interactive exhibits highlight the roots of stock car racing in the Carolinas.
For fresh air, a short stroll to Romare Bearden Park (300 S. Church Street) can be refreshing, especially on a temperate afternoon. There’s a playful water feature and often a sprinkling of performers or picnickers.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you love the arts and wish to deepen your connection, consider volunteering. Some roles include:
- Ushering: Greet patrons, guide them to their seats, and pass out programs.
- Youth Programs: Assist at events where children try dance activities for the first time.
- Administrative Support: Help staff with organizing data or distributing marketing materials in the weeks before major shows.
Volunteers often say that they learn so much more about dance and feel more integrated into the local arts community. It’s also a chance to make new friends who share your enthusiasm.
Balancing Tradition and Modern Takes
Charlotte Ballet’s identity springs from its flair for both tradition and evolution in dance. You’ll see the romantic lines of Swan Lake in one production, and then a bold contemporary creation in another. Such contrast stems from the leadership’s desire to honor historical works and, at the same time, nurture new voices. Audience feedback, ticket sales, and educational outreach all guide future programming decisions. My guess is that the 2025 Season aims to maintain this balance: giving those who cherish classic ballets a solid repertoire while leaving space for choreographers who experiment with fresh approaches.
Planning for Out-of-Town Visitors
If you’re traveling to Charlotte specifically to see any of these performances, Uptown boasts an array of hotels. Some popular picks include:
- The Dunhill Hotel (237 N. Tryon Street): A boutique spot close to many cultural attractions.
- Omni Charlotte Hotel (132 E. Trade Street): In the center of Uptown, it’s connected to the Overstreet Mall for quick shopping.
- Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown (222 S. Caldwell Street): Offers modern rooms, walking distance from the Spectrum Center, and about a 10–15-minute walk to the theaters.
Public transportation options in the city include the LYNX Blue Line, which operates regularly on weekdays starting early in the morning, wrapping up near midnight or slightly later on weekends. Check www.charlottenc.gov for schedules and route maps. Rideshare apps and taxis are also readily available, though busy show nights might see higher demand.
Treasures Beyond the Stage
While Charlotte Ballet remains my main focus when I head Uptown, there’s plenty more to see and do if you’re extending your stay. The area around the theater district is a lively hub for craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and performance venues. Over the weekend, you could swing by the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market (1801 Yorkmont Road), typically open Tuesday–Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (though hours vary by season). It’s a dependable spot to sample local produce and baked treats before heading into the city center for an evening show.
During cooler months, I appreciate the coffee shops that dot the perimeter of Uptown. One example is Not Just Coffee at the 7th Street Public Market, where you can watch skilled baristas work their magic. Even if you’re only grabbing a latte to-go, it’s an inviting stop.
Looking Ahead: Why This Season Matters
The significance of the 2025 Season isn’t just about the lineup. It also highlights Charlotte’s growing artistic scene. In recent years, the city has pulled in new residents from all over the country—and the world—who bring fresh perspectives on theater, music, and dance. Charlotte Ballet’s staff, dancers, and audience members reflect this mix of backgrounds. That mosaic infuses the productions with a special type of energy, one shaped by collaboration and wide-ranging artistic tastes.
Another essential factor is the lasting impression these shows leave on younger viewers. I’ve seen children who attend an educational outreach show emerge with stars in their eyes, tugging on their parents’ sleeves to ask if they can sign up for a ballet class. Those responses remind everyone that the arts can spark new passions, build discipline and confidence, and encourage creativity.
Conclusion: Let the Performances Begin
From the enchanting first notes of Swan Lake in February to the swirling snowflakes of The Nutcracker in December, the 2025 Season is poised to fill the city with dance, music, and a shared sense of wonder. Each production offers a different window into the craft, each shaped by the dancers’ dedication and the audience’s collective energy. Whether you choose the awe of classical romance or the experimentation of modern choreography, there’s a seat waiting for you.
Plan ahead with the help of the schedule listed above, block out a few weekends on your calendar, and consider bringing a friend or family member who’s never seen professional dance before. There’s a real thrill in watching someone discover the art form for the first time—perhaps in the same way I did, chatting with warmhearted dancers in a lobby many seasons ago.
Charlotte Ballet invites you to share in this creative tapestry of movement. Take your pick of shows, soak in the city’s culinary and cultural delights, and celebrate the artistry that keeps audiences returning year after year. When the house lights dim and the music begins, let your imagination take flight along with the dancers on stage. It could be the start of a tradition, a memorable outing, or simply a pleasant escape on a weekend evening. However you approach it, Charlotte Ballet’s 2025 Season promises an experience that resonates long after the final curtain call.
