San Francisco’s rich cultural calendar began the new year with a resounding artistic statement as the San Francisco Ballet launched its 93rd season on January 14, 2026. The company’s annual gala, held at the elegant rotunda of City Hall, was not only a celebration of ballet’s classical roots but also a declaration of its evolving role in contemporary society. Drawing a sold-out audience that included artists, philanthropists, civic leaders, and longtime patrons, the evening marked a triumphant start to what promises to be one of the company’s most ambitious and forward-looking seasons under the leadership of Artistic Director Tamara Rojo.
The gala program featured an expertly curated mix of neoclassical masterpieces and bold, contemporary choreography, underscoring the dual mission Rojo has embraced since taking the helm in 2022: to honor the tradition of ballet while expanding its reach and relevance in the 21st century. Among the evening’s most lauded performances were selections from Frederick Ashton’s revered repertory, showcasing the dancers’ technical refinement and emotional depth. Ashton’s elegant, nuanced choreography provided a graceful foundation for the program, connecting audiences to the enduring beauty of classical form.
Equally memorable was the rousing finale of George Balanchine’s “Stars and Stripes,” a patriotic celebration of American spirit set to the marches of John Philip Sousa. The piece, long a favorite among American ballet companies, brought the evening to a vibrant close with its high-energy formations, vivid staging, and sense of grand spectacle. Balanchine, a Russian immigrant who helped define American ballet, was celebrated not only for his choreographic brilliance but also as a symbol of how the arts can bridge cultures and histories. The performance served as a reminder of ballet’s roots in European tradition while affirming its unique place in American identity.
Rojo’s program selection reflected a delicate balance — one that respected the expectations of traditional audiences while subtly challenging them to embrace new perspectives. The artistic choices sparked conversations not only about technique and performance but also about cultural relevance. Some patrons and commentators reflected on the symbolic weight of presenting a patriotic piece like “Stars and Stripes” during a time of political and social introspection in the United States. While the response to the piece was largely enthusiastic, its inclusion prompted thoughtful discourse about representation, national identity, and the evolving narrative of classical arts.
Beyond the stage, the gala served as a major philanthropic success for the organization. With gala chair Terra Sollman leading the fundraising effort, the event raised record-breaking contributions, reinforcing the community’s strong support for the Ballet’s mission. Proceeds will directly fund new works, educational outreach programs, and initiatives to make ballet more accessible to diverse audiences across the Bay Area. Supporters cited not only the high caliber of the evening’s performances but also the clarity of vision guiding the organization under Rojo’s leadership.
Adding to the evening’s emotional resonance was the presence of legendary performer Rita Moreno, who was honored during the gala for her lifetime contributions to the arts. Moreno’s appearance, accompanied by moving remarks about the role of dance in shaping culture and identity, underscored the deep ties between ballet and the broader performing arts community. Her comments reflected both admiration for the San Francisco Ballet and a call to continue pushing artistic boundaries while remaining rooted in authenticity.
The gala’s success set the tone for the rest of the 2025–2026 season, which will feature a dynamic mix of full-length classics and bold new works. Rojo has outlined a season that includes world premieres, international collaborations, and performances by guest choreographers who bring a range of stylistic approaches. This season will also introduce audiences to fresh talent within the company, alongside returning stars whose performances continue to captivate.
Critics praised the dancers for their technical precision, emotional expression, and ensemble cohesion. Both seasoned principal dancers and rising company members delivered performances that exemplified the company’s artistic vitality. Reviewers noted the seamless integration of classical and modern movement vocabularies, highlighting the Ballet’s ability to maintain the highest standards while evolving to reflect contemporary sensibilities.
The evening also reinforced the role of ballet as a platform for cultural dialogue. In a city known for its diversity and creative spirit, the San Francisco Ballet stands as both a guardian of tradition and a beacon for artistic progress. Rojo’s tenure has already been marked by efforts to expand the company’s audience base and broaden its repertory to include a wider range of voices and themes. The 93rd season opener was an embodiment of that mission: it respected the past, responded to the present, and hinted at the possibilities of the future.
As San Francisco continues to navigate its identity in a changing cultural and economic landscape, institutions like the Ballet provide a stabilizing force — a reminder of the power of collective expression, shared beauty, and artistic excellence. The gala was not just an evening of performance; it was a reaffirmation of the Ballet’s role as a living, breathing part of the city’s soul.
With the curtain now lifted on the 2026 season, the San Francisco Ballet moves forward with momentum, confidence, and a clear artistic vision. The company’s blend of tradition and innovation offers audiences not only aesthetic delight but also a compelling invitation to reimagine what ballet can be in a changing world.
