The Joffrey Ballet's annual holiday ballet returns following a critically acclaimed reinvention by the iconic Christopher Wheeldon in 2016. The previous Joffrey version ran for many years, becoming the Number One Chicago Christmas tradition, and returned annually to the Auditorium Theatre to wow their die-hard fans since 1987.

Now celebrating over two decades of performances, The Nutcracker by Ballet Chicago returns for another brilliant year! As one of the USA's favorite Christmas events and one of the most performed ballets in the world, this annual performance is the perfect way to welcome the holiday season with the whole family.

Head back to the JLC as Chicago's oldest Nutcracker returns for 2025 in the Ruth Page Nutcracker! Filled with enough festive joy to make an elf blush, this is one family outing you won't want to miss! 

Once again, Salt Creek Ballet will march their way on to the stage this December for the holiday season! Follow the journey of our brave heroine Clara and her dashing nutcracker prince, as they battle armed mice and celebrate victory at the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy! A must-see for ballet fans to celebrate the festive season with all the family.

Designated by Congress as 'a vital American cultural ambassador to the world', it's been over 60 years since Alvin Ailey and his group of African-American dancers performed for the very first time at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. The tour is packed full of premieres and returning favorites, offering a fantastic chance to enjoy the group once again.

Joffrey Ballet's American Icons honors the influential voices that shaped contemporary dance in the 20th century. Bringing together works by Joffrey Ballet co-founders Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, along with celebrated choreographers Glen Tetley and Martha Graham, four distinct artistic visions get an worthy airing.