- May 2012
In 1929, Dorothy Alexander launched the dance group that would grow into today's vibrant Atlanta Ballet. Thanks to her vision, stamina and grace, Atlanta is proud to be home to the longest continually operating ballet company in the nation. Over 80 years, we've had just three artistic directors - Dorothy Alexander, Robert Barnett and John McFall - who have brought imagination and innovation to the stage as well as to the community through outreach and education. Join us this year as we celebrate our 80-year history, the 15th anniversary of our dynamic Artistic Director John McFall and the 50th anniversary of performing Nutcracker. Our programming includes a number of performances to be shared by your entire family, as well as breathtaking premieres. We look forward to celebrating with you!
History
Atlanta Ballet was founded seven decades ago by dance visionary Dorothy Alexander (1904-1986). Miss Dorothy had a dream of bringing quality ballet to the Atlanta community. The result was the Dorothy Alexander Dance Concert Group—the first step in the regional ballet movement that swept the nation. Upon gaining professional status in 1967, the company was renamed Atlanta Ballet. Today, under the artistic leadership of John McFall, Atlanta Ballet is the oldest professional dance company in America, the largest self-supported arts organization in Georgia, and the official Ballet of Georgia.
Atlanta Ballet’s eclectic repertoire spans the history of ballet, highlighted by the most beloved classics and the most inventive originals. Although a renowned leader in the promotion and education of dance, Atlanta Ballet’s roots have been firmly grounded in the community and playing a vital role in the city’s cultural growth and revitalization.
