In the News

The Columbus Ballet Begins Again: A New Studio, A New Youth Company, A New Chapter for a 30-Year Legacy

For many in Columbus, The Columbus Ballet has long been synonymous with a single holiday tradition: The Nutcracker. For 30 years, that production has been an annual touchpoint that has introduced generations of families to classical ballet. But this year, as The Columbus Ballet reaches its 30th anniversary, the organization is not content on looking back; it is stepping forward. Read full article.
Publication: The Columbusite
Date: May 28, 2026

"Art is Community" – The Columbus Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a Great Example of Columbus’ Creative Collaboration

Dance, live music, costume design, theater, and community partnerships converge to create The Columbus Ballet’s annual holiday tradition. Read full article.
Publication: The Columbusite
Date: December 11, 2025

Inside Columbus Ballet’s 29th Year of Holiday Magic

This year, that familiar ritual carries special weight. The Columbus Ballet’s 2025 production of The Nutcracker marks the company’s 29th annual staging of Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday classic—nearly three decades of sugar plums, snowflakes, and Clara’s big, brave heart.
From December 12–14, the Bill Heard Theatre will transform once again into the Stahlbaum home, the Land of Snow, and the Kingdom of Sweets, with performances on Friday, December 12 at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 13 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 14 at 2:30 p.m.
But if you think you already know this story, Artistic Director Ben Redding would like a word. Read full article.

Publication: The Local
Date: December 10, 2026

The Return of The Columbus Ballet’s 'The Nutcracker' – Why This Year’s Production is One Families Can’t Miss

For nearly three decades, The Nutcracker has been part of the cultural fabric of Columbus. Each holiday season, families gather in the grandeur of the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts to watch dancers young and old take the stage in Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet. This year marks the 29th annual production by The Columbus Ballet, and Board President Jennifer Hayes and Artistic Director Ben Redding say it’s not only about carrying on a tradition; it’s about reimagining it. Read full article.

Publication: The Columbusite
Date: October 16, 2025

Special Edition: The Columbus Ballet's Production of 'The Nutcracker' Brings the Arts to Center Stage

From the dynamic storytelling power of choreography upheld by the magic of a live orchestra, to the gorgeous costume designs and memorable sets, this is an ideal opportunity for people of all ages to see firsthand what a sensory-filled experience ballet can be. The educational potential of a full-scale ballet is unmatched. Each audience member has a rare chance to experience how dance, theatre, costume design, sets, and live music all combine to produce a uniquely enthralling exposure to the world of ballet – whether it's the viewer's first or hundredth time seeing the show. Read full article.

Publication: The Columbusite
Date: November 19, 2024

The Columbus Ballet Impacts Dancers Far Beyond the Stage

Since 1998, The Columbus Ballet has served thousands of young ballet dancers across the Chattahoochee Valley. Their emphasis on technique and performance has produced an organization whose impact on its dancers is extending far beyond the stage. Read full article.

Publication: The Columbusite
Date: September 26, 2024