Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience World-Class Ballet in San Francisco
San Francisco Ballet stands as a pioneering force in the evolution of ballet, blending classical mastery with contemporary innovation. Founded in 1933, we hold the distinction of being the oldest professional ballet company in the United States. Under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Tamara Rojo, our company continues to redefine the art form through groundbreaking premieres, reimagined classics, and culturally resonant programming. Our Grammy Award-winning orchestra, led by Music Director Martin West, enhances every performance with unparalleled musicality. The San Francisco Ballet School, established alongside the company, remains a globally respected training ground for future dance professionals.Our community engagement initiatives extend the transformative power of dance to diverse audiences across the Bay Area. With a legacy of firstsincluding the first American productions of Swan Lake, Nutcracker, and Coppliawe remain committed to advancing ballet through artistic excellence and educational outreach. Our administrative and production teams ensure seamless execution of performances, while our partnerships with wellness professionals support dancer health and longevity. This enduring commitment to innovation, education, and community defines our identity as both a cultural institution and a creative engine for global ballet.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Training
Community Programs
Orchestral Performances
Youth Education
Details
- Year established: 1933
Highlights and features
- We are the oldest professional ballet company in the United States, established in 1933
- Our company has premiered groundbreaking works and reimagined classical masterpieces
- We offer comprehensive dance education through the renowned San Francisco Ballet School
- Our Grammy Award-winning orchestra enhances every performance with exceptional musicality
- We maintain a deep commitment to community engagement programs across the Bay Area
Services
Ballet Performances
Our ballet performances combine classical mastery with contemporary innovation, featuring groundbreaking premieres and reimagined classics. The company presents diverse programs at the War Memorial Opera House and through international tours. Each season includes both traditional favorites and new works that push artistic boundaries.
Dance Training
San Francisco Ballet School provides world-class dance education from pre-ballet through pre-professional levels. Our curriculum develops technical excellence while fostering creativity and discipline. The school offers year-round programs, summer intensives, and community classes for all ages and abilities.
Community Programs
Community engagement initiatives bring dance to diverse audiences through educational workshops, public performances, and school partnerships. Programs include Dance in Schools, audience development projects, and accessible performances for underserved populations. These initiatives reflect our commitment to making ballet inclusive and widely available.
Orchestral Performances
The Grammy Award-winning San Francisco Ballet Orchestra accompanies all company performances with exceptional musical artistry. Led by Music Director Martin West, the orchestra enhances the emotional impact of each production. The ensemble also participates in special musical events and recordings.
Youth Education
Our youth education programs cultivate dance appreciation and technical skills in young students. Offerings include pre-ballet classes, children's casting opportunities, and school partnerships that integrate dance with academic learning. These programs nurture future artists and audiences through age-appropriate instruction.
People
Tamara Rojo
Artistic Director
Internationally acclaimed dancer and artistic leader Tamara Rojo has redefined San Francisco Ballet's artistic direction since her appointment. Her visionary programming combines classical mastery with contemporary innovation, expanding the company's global influence and artistic boundaries.
Martin West
Music Director
Shelby and Frederick Gans Music Director Martin West leads the Grammy Award-winning San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. With over 15 years of service, he ensures exceptional musical accompaniment for all company performances while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
Grace Holmes
School Director
Grace Holmes directs San Francisco Ballet School's comprehensive training programs. As an experienced educator, she oversees curriculum development and faculty leadership, maintaining the school's reputation as one of the world's premier ballet training institutions.
Branislav Henselmann
Executive Director
Branislav Henselmann manages the company's administrative operations and strategic initiatives. His leadership ensures the organization's financial stability and operational excellence while supporting artistic innovation and community engagement efforts.
Daniel Thomas
Production Director
Daniel Thomas oversees all technical production aspects for the company. With extensive experience in stagecraft, he ensures seamless execution of complex productions through skilled management of scenery, lighting, and wardrobe departments.
Questions
How can I purchase tickets for performances?
Tickets are available through our website, phone (415-865-2000), or at the War Memorial Opera House box office. Subscriptions offer best seats and exclusive benefits.
What training programs are available for young dancers?
San Francisco Ballet School offers pre-ballet through pre-professional programs, summer intensives, and adult classes. Scholarships and community access programs ensure opportunities for diverse students.
Does the company tour internationally?
Yes, San Francisco Ballet tours globally, sharing innovative productions and cultural exchange programs. Upcoming tours include performances in major international arts centers.
How does the company support local communities?
Our community programs include school partnerships, public performances, and accessible dance initiatives reaching over 20,000 Bay Area residents annually through educational and outreach activities.
What makes San Francisco Ballet unique?
As America's oldest ballet company, we combine classical mastery with contemporary innovation. Our Grammy-winning orchestra, renowned school, and groundbreaking commissions distinguish our artistic identity.
How can I support the company's mission?
Support through donations, volunteering, or corporate partnerships helps sustain artistic excellence, education programs, and community outreach. Visit our website for giving opportunities.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Manny K.
Dec 20, 2021
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Great experience. We had 2 seats on Grand tier ($150 each). Show started at 7pm, we arrived at the Performing Arts Garage(across the street from Ballet) @ 4:40pm grab event parking for $20. Doors at Ballet opened at 5pm. Had dinner at the Prelude @ the opera house. We paid about $180 for 2 adult buffets, 3 drinks, and a dessert. As for the performance, BRAVO! BRAVO!
Nicolle Holt
Dec 15, 2021
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Absolutely world class production! All of the dancers were incredible and the War Memorial Opera house is such a beautiful venue with great photo opportunities! I try to attend at least twice per year because so much work goes into the shows. Always happy to support! Cant wait to come back again.
Merci Molero
Oct 03, 2021
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Poor communication, I'm very disappointed about how they handle the school that it's been for so long running in the city, definitely, this intuition has to become a better place , Like people advise .
Ismael Gonzalez
Sep 14, 2021
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Well thank you I gave it a four I was just driving by going to rent in San Francisco I heard it's great now that I'm doing this I think I'm going to book a date there I just need to find somebody to go with me thank you.
