The Joffrey Ballet is one of the foremost ballet companies in the United States, celebrated for its commitment to American-made works and its pioneering spirit in expanding the ballet repertoire. Founded in 1956 by Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino in New York City, the company moved its permanent home to Chicago in 1995, where it has become a cornerstone of the city's cultural life and a flagship of American dance.
From its earliest years, the Joffrey distinguished itself by championing new choreography and commissioning works from emerging voices, as well as staging historically significant reconstructions of 20th-century masterpieces. The company premiered Twyla Tharp's landmark Deuce Coupe in 1973, fusing ballet with popular music in a way that reshaped the art form, and has continued to champion works that blur the boundaries between classical and contemporary dance.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE, the Joffrey has deepened its investment in world premieres, community engagement, and artist development. The company performs at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago and tours nationally and internationally, bringing an eclectic and technically demanding repertoire to audiences worldwide. Its training programmes and outreach initiatives have made it a vital institution not only for professional dancers but for communities across the Chicago region.
The Joffrey's 70th anniversary season in 2025–26 reflects its enduring ambition: balancing beloved classics with daring new commissions, and honouring its history while continuing to define what American ballet can be.