CHARLESTON W.Va. (WVDN) – The Charleston Ballet, West Virginia’s official state ballet, proudly announces its 70th anniversary season for 2025–2026: GOING PLATINUM – 7 DECADES OF DANCE. This landmark season celebrates seven decades of excellence in dance with a bold lineup of performances that honor tradition while embracing innovation.
The season kicks off with a spine-tingling favorite, DRACULA: THE SEDUCTION, on October 17-18, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Charleston Coliseum Theater. Set to a chilling score by Emmy Award-winning composer Anthony DiLorenzo, the ballet follows the story of Miranda, a gypsy maiden lured into the spellbinding world of Count Dracula. With vampires, gypsies, and the haunting brides of Dracula, this gothic masterpiece is a feast for the senses.
DRAC’S BITE-NITE at Soho’s: Following the Friday night performance, guests are invited to don their fangs and finest attire for DRAC’S BITE-NITE at Soho’s—a spirited after-party at Soho’s at the Capitol Market, from 9:30–Midnight.
Celebrate the magic of the season with the timeless holiday favorite, THE NUTCRACKER, presented with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra at the Clay Center. Performances take place on December 12 at 7:30 p.m., and December 13 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Audiences will follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince through a dreamlike world of dancing snowflakes and delectable delights, all set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, performed live.
School Matinees: As part of its ongoing commitment to arts education, Charleston Ballet will also present two special matinee performances for West Virginia students on December 10 and 11 at 11:00 a.m., continuing a treasured tradition of inspiring young minds through the power of dance.
In February, Charleston Ballet presents a compelling mixed bill program—TRADITION / INNOVATION—on February 27–28, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Charleston Coliseum Theater. This performance showcases the company’s wide range of talents, highlighting classical works that honor the past alongside contemporary choreography that propels ballet into the future.
Bringing the unforgettable anniversary season to a close is a monumental production of SWAN LAKE, performed for the first time in Charleston Ballet’s history, accompanied by the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Join us at the Clay Center on May 8, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. and May 9 at 2:00 p.m. for this historic and spellbinding event. Swan Lake tells the story of the abiding love between Prince Siegfried and the swan maiden Odette. Tchaikovsky’s legendary score, performed live, will envelop audiences in a world of beauty, heartbreak, and transformation—creating a unique, immersive experience.
The 2025–2026 season will be a journey through time, blending timeless classical works with bold creations brought to life by Charleston’s ballet company that our community has sustained for 70 years. Prepare for a season filled with unforgettable performances, masterful choreography, and magical moments that will inspire and ignite your soul.
For ticket and season information, call (304) 342-6541 or visit www.thecharlestonballet.com
