May 14-23, 2027
PULSE
Featuring 3 dance works
PULSE is a bold triple bill curated by Artistic Director Devon Carney, tracing ballet’s past, present, and future. The evening features three extraordinary works that showcase the full range of what ballet can be — classic, contemporary, and completely alive. George Balanchine’s The Four Temperaments explores the depths of human nature through striking modernist choreography set to Paul Hindemith’s dynamic score, highlighting precision, strength, and artistry. Jerome Robbins’ Glass Pieces electrifies the stage with hypnotic rhythms, transforming Philip Glass’ iconic music into a kinetic visual feast. Completing the program, don’t miss the bold and imaginative world premiere work by Melissa Hough, blending emotional depth, striking movement, and innovative storytelling. Together, these works celebrate the diversity, vitality, and excitement of contemporary ballet.
Supporting Sponsor
Neighborhood Tourism Development Fund
Season Sponsors
Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation
Missouri Arts Council
National Endowment for the Arts
About the Ballets
The Four Temperaments
Choreography by George Balanchine
Music by Paul Hindemith
George Balanchine’s The Four Temperaments is a striking exploration of human nature expressed through dance. Set to Paul Hindemith’s dynamic score, this modernist masterpiece showcases the dancer’s precision, strength, and artistry as it interprets the four classical temperaments—melancholic, sanguinic, phlegmatic, and choleric. Known for its clean lines, dramatic intensity, and innovative choreography, The Four Temperaments remains one of Balanchine’s most influential and visually stunning works—a must-see for lovers of ballet and contemporary movement alike.
Glass Pieces
Choreography by Jerome Robbins
Music by Philip Glass
Jerome Robbins’ Glass Pieces is a dazzling celebration of rhythm, light, and movement. Set to the driving, pulsating music of Philip Glass, Robbins’ innovative choreography transforms the stage into a kinetic, hypnotic landscape where dancers move with precision, power, and exhilarating energy. A modern masterpiece of contemporary ballet, Glass Pieces showcases Robbins’ genius for blending structure, music, and athleticism into a visually stunning experience—perfect for audiences who love bold, dynamic dance.
world Premiere
Choreography by Melissa Hough
Experience the excitement of a world premiere by Melissa Hough, one of ballet’s most innovative and compelling choreographers. This brand-new work brings her signature blend of emotional depth, striking movement, and imaginative storytelling to the stage, promising a bold, unforgettable addition to the contemporary ballet repertoire. Don’t miss the chance to see this debut performance that pushes boundaries and captivates audiences from the very first step.
Meet the Dancers
We make it look easy, but it takes dozens of talented people to put together a stunning performance and train the next generation of professional dancers.
Pre-Curtain Talks
Free for all ticketholders, arrive early and hear about the show you are about to see. Learn how music, special effects, and costumes all make magic on stage by attending the pre-curtain talk, Belger Footnotes, hosted by Artistic Director Devon Carney.
Held at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts one hour prior to curtain. No reservation is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the full range of what ballet can be — classic, contemporary, and completely alive.
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