

March 20-29, 2026
Stars and Stripes
A collection of three dance works honoring America’s milestone.
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 of A Home Away 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.
Presenting Sponsor
Kansas City Ballet Guild
Supporting Sponsor
Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts
Neighborhood Tourism Development Fund
Season Sponsors
Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation
Missouri Arts Council
National Endowment for the Arts

About the Ballets
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Choreography by George Balanchine
Music by John Philip Sousa, orchestrated by Hershy KayCelebrate 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.
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Choreography by Agnes de Mille
Music by Aaron CoplandExperience 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.
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Choreography by Caili Quan
Music by Antonín DvořákWorld Premiere A Home Away: 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.
Meet the Dancers
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Aidan Duffy
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Alladson Barreto
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Amelia Meissner
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Amira Hogan
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Angelin Carrant
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Anya Chiu
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Audrey Lynn
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Ben Workman
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Cameron Thomas
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Celeste Lopez-Keranen
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Derek Wippel
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Elliott Rogers
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Gavin Abercrombie
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Gillian Yoder
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Isaac Allen
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Jordan Long
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Joseph Boswell
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Joshua Kiesel
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Kaleena Burks
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Keaton Linzau
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Marisa DeEtte Whiteman
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Maura O’Neill
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Mei McArtor
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Michael Dadlez
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Naomi Tanioka
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Noura Sander
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Olivia Jacobus
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Paul Zusi
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Sidney Haefs
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Whitney Huell

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
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Digital mobile ticketing is a safe and secure way to access tickets to your upcoming Kansas City Ballet performances. It offers you the convenience of using your smartphone as your event tickets with unique QR codes that can be scanned from your screen.
Please see these instructions before arriving for your event.
1. Visit tickets.kcballet.org
Log in to tickets.kcballet.org using the same email and password you used when purchasing your tickets. This must be done only on your mobile phone when entering the theater. For quick access, bookmark the web address on your device and log in before arriving for your event.
If you do not have a login password or do not remember it, please click Forgot Password to set a new password.
2. Select your event
You can manage your tickets on your mobile device, and can easily add each ticket to your iPhone Wallet (Google Wallet is not yet available).
Digital tickets can be shared with anyone via the tickets.kcballet.org website by tapping the share tickets button, entering the recipient’s name, and selecting the ticket(s) you would like to share. Ticket holders can share, forward, return, and reclaim tickets.
3. Scan your tickets at the venue
The QR code will appear two hours before doors open for the performance. Your QR codes include technology to protect them as they regenerate every 30 seconds; screenshots or printouts of the mobile tickets will not work and will not be accepted at entry.
For a Quick Guide download, please click here.
If you have questions, please get in touch with the ticket office at 816.931.8993, M-F 10 am – 5 pm.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips:
- Open a browser (ex., Safari, Google Chrome) to view and manage your digital tickets.
- If you experience any issues with your QR code, refresh the page.
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A mixed-repertory show (or, mixed-rep) consists of three or four shorter ballets shown in one performance. You will see ballets by different choreographers, or sometimes a collection of works by one choreographer.
A story ballet follows a storyline from beginning to end. Examples of story ballets are Swan Lake, The Wizard of Oz, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker.
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Yes. Bars are open before the show and at intermissions to purchase beverages including coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol. Small snacks are also available. In order to make the most of your intermission, pre-order your drink before the show! Simply submit your beverage order before the performance at the nearest bar and it will be ready for pick-up at the same spot during intermission.
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Student Rush Tickets Are For High School and Higher Education Students Only. Student IDs are required for each ticket at Will Call when picked up on the night of the show.
High School and Higher Education student tickets are available online for $24 plus fees. Tickets can be purchased online approximately one month prior to the production, but can also be purchased on the night of the show.
Patrons who are not students and wish to attend with the student must purchase the regular-priced tickets.
All rush tickets are subject to availability. Fees apply. Student rush is not available for The Nutcracker or other special performances/events.
Tickets will be held at the Kauffman Center Ticket Office to be picked up the night of the show. Each student must be physically present and a valid student I.D. shown for each ticket when you pick up your tickets at Will Call.
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Seniors age 62 and up and educators who present valid I.D. at the ticket office 90 minutes prior to all repertory performances can purchase available rush tickets at a discount of up to 40% off single ticket prices (Not valid in Zone F). Prices are subject to change, and some restrictions apply. Rush prices are not valid on tickets to The Nutcracker or any other special performances. Call the Ticket Office at 816.931.8993 for more information.
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Courtesy of Ballet West. Artists of Ballet West in STARS AND STRIPES © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Beau Pearson. -

Courtesy of Ballet West. Jenna Rae Herrera and David Huffmire in STARS AND STRIPES © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Beau Pearson. -

Courtesy of Ballet West. Artists of Ballet West in STARS AND STRIPES © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Beau Pearson. -

Courtesy of Ballet West. Artists of Ballet West in STARS AND STRIPES © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Beau Pearson. -

Courtesy of Ballet West. Artists of Ballet West in STARS AND STRIPES © The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Beau Pearson.


Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary
Save 20% off Stars and Stripes single tickets now with a 2-show subscription package.
2025-2026 Season
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Aug 1, 2026
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