American Ballet Theatre at Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 in Abu Dhabi

One of the world's most celebrated dance companies makes its Arab world premiere with a breathtaking programme featuring Frederick Ashton's Birthday Offering, Jiří Kylián's Nuages and Paquita, staged by Natalia Makarova after Marius Petipa.

Arab World Premiere

One of the world's most celebrated dance companies returns to Abu Dhabi with an One of the world’s most celebrated dance companies returns to Abu Dhabi with an extraordinary programme that celebrates the richness and evolution of ballet, from the elegance of the classical tradition to the poetic imagination of contemporary choreography. Bringing together four distinctive works, including a world premiere, the evening highlights the remarkable versatility, artistry, and technical brilliance of American Ballet Theatre’s dancers.

The programme opens with Frederick Ashton’s radiant Birthday Offering, a luminous tribute to the classical ballerina set to Alexander Glazunov’s sparkling score. Originally created to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, the work remains one of the twentieth century’s finest expressions of classical elegance and choreographic musicality. After the interval comes Nuages by the legendary Jiří Kylián, inspired by Claude Debussy’s evocative music. Dreamlike and deeply atmospheric, the work reflects Kylián’s singular ability to unite poetic imagery with expressive movement. It is followed by Trio élégiaque, a new commission by the gifted young choreographer Brady Farrar, set to Sergei Rachmaninoff’s intensely lyrical music and bringing a fresh and compelling contemporary voice to the evening. The programme concludes with the magnificent Paquita, staged by Natalia Makarova after Marius Petipa. Renowned for its regal style, brilliant ensemble work, and dazzling Grand Pas Classique, this enduring masterpiece offers a spectacular finale and a glorious celebration of American Ballet Theatre’s distinguished classical tradition.

Programme

Birthday Offering Choreography by FREDERICK ASHTON Music by ALEXANDER GLAZUNOV (“Concert Waltz No.1,” “Ruses d’Amour,” and excerpts from “The Seasons” and “Scène de Ballet”) Arranged and Orchestrated by ROBERT IRVING Costumes by ANDRÉ LEVASSEUR Lighting by STEVEN SHELLEY Staged by HELEN CRAWFORD Birthday Offering is performed by arrangement with The Frederick Ashton Foundation and is one of over 100 ballets created by Frederick Ashton (1904–1988). These performances are presented as part of the Ashton Worldwide 2024–2028 festival. For further information, visit frederickashton.org.uk Music by arrangement with European American Music Distributors Company, U.S. and Canadian agent for Schott Music, publisher and copyright owner. Costumes executed by Barbara Matera, Ltd. Birthday Offering was created for The Royal Ballet on the occasion of its 25th Anniversary, receiving its premiere at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden on May 5, 1956. It entered the repertory of American Ballet Theatre on October 25, 1989, at the Jesse H. Jones Hall in Houston, Texas. This is, in every sense, a celebration: a ballet created in 1956 to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, the company that, only months later, would receive its Royal Charter and become The Royal Ballet. It is a tribute from Ashton to the ballerinas who had shaped the company’s identity, and an affectionate homage to the classical tradition from which it had grown. Set to a selection of Glazunov’s music arranged by Robert Irving, the ballet is conceived as a display of seven ballerinas and their partners, each given a variation tailored to her particular gifts: speed, lyricism, attack, or serene poise. Ashton, often regarded as the most musical of choreographers, weaves these contras

About the Artist

American Ballet Theatre American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is recognised as one of the great dance companies in the world. Few ballet companies equal ABT for its combination of size, scope and outreach. Founded in 1940, ABT is the only major cultural institution that annually tours the United States, performing for more than 300,000 people. The company has also made more than 30 international tours to 45 countries as perhaps the most representative American ballet company and has been sponsored by the United States Department of State on many of these engagements. When ABT was launched, the aim was to develop a repertoire of the best ballets from the past and to encourage the creation of new works by gifted young choreographers, wherever they might be found. Under the direction of Lucia Chase and Oliver Smith from 1945 to 1980, the company more than fulfilled that mission. Perhaps unmatched in the history of ballet, ABT’s repertoire includes beloved full-length classics from the 19th century, such as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and Giselle; many of the finest works from the 20th century, including Apollo, Les Sylphides, Jardin aux Lilas, Fancy Free, Rodeo, Airs, Push Comes to Shove and In the Upper Room; and acclaimed contemporary masterpieces, including Shostakovich Trilogy and Serenade after Plato’s Symposium. Throughout the curation of this repertoire, ABT has commissioned works by celebrated choreographers of the 20th and 21st centuries: George Balanchine, Antony Tudor, Jerome Robbins, Agnes de Mille, Twyla Tharp, Mark Morris, Alexei Ratmansky and Christopher Wheeldon, among others. In 1980, Mikhail Baryshnikov became Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre. Under his leadership, numerous classical ballets were staged, restaged and refurbished and the company

Dress Code and Age Restrictions

Dress Code: Classy and fancy attire is welcome, but feel free to dress in a way that makes you comfortable and confident. Choose an outfit that lets you relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Be yourself, express your style, and enjoy every moment! Age restrictions: Age restrictions for events may vary. Please check the specific guidelines by clicking on the "Buy Tickets" button for detailed information.

Plan your Visit

How to get there? Detailed information on how to reach the venue is provided in the event descriptions. Be sure to check there for directions and transportation options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. What should I take with me? • Tickets: Bring your entry tickets, either in print or digital form on your phone, for a smooth entry experience. • Valid Photo ID: Carry a valid photo ID like your passport for identity verification. • Cash and Card: Have some cash for small purchases; many vendors also accept cards. • Open Mind and Adventurous Spirit: Come with enthusiasm and an open mind to embrace new experiences and create lasting memories. Things that are forbidden • Illegal Substances: Absolutely no illegal substances are allowed on the premises. • Weapons: Weapons of any kind, including items that could be used as projectiles, are strictly prohibited. • Restricted Items: Do not bring laser pointers, permanent markers, felt-tip pens, scissors, or aerosol canisters. • Drones: Drones or any other remote-controlled devices are not allowed. • Illuminating Objects: Glow sticks, LED signage, and similar illuminating objects should be left at home. Food & Beverages A variety of food and drinks are available, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. There’s something for everyone, ensuring attendees stay refreshed throughout their visit.

FAQs

Is there parking? Yes, there is parking available. Attendees have the option to park their vehicles conveniently at or near the venue, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure experience. Is it accessible to people with disabilities? Yes, it's accessible to people with disabilities. The organizers prioritize inclusivity and ensure that venues are equipped with facilities to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Accessible seating areas, ramps, and other necessary accommodations are in place, allowing everyone to enjoy the event comfortably. But please contact us for more details before booking. Is it possible to take food from outside? No, bringing outside food is not allowed. Attendees are kindly requested to enjoy the variety of food and beverages available inside the venue. Please note that food is not permitted during performances. Can I smoke? Smoking is not allowed in general areas. However, there are designated special zones where smoking is permitted. If you wish to smoke, please use these designated areas to ensure compliance with the event regulations and the comfort of all attendees. Can I take photos? No photography allowed during the performance inside theatre.

Event Policies & Information

• Early Arrival: Please arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes before the start of the performance to ensure a smooth experience. • Seating: Please remain in your assigned seat as indicated on your ticket. • Timely Attendance Clause: If you do not arrive before the show begins, the organizers reserve the right to release and reassign your seat to accommodate other guests. • Late Arrival Policy: Guests arriving late will be admitted only during a break/interval (if applicable). Original seats are not guaranteed, and an alternative seat may be offered, subject to availability. • Camera Policy: The use of mobile phones, cameras, and recording devices is strictly prohibited. Phones must be kept on silent. No photography is allowed inside the theatre during the performance. • Liability Disclaimer: The organizers are not responsible for any injuries, illnesses, fatalities, or loss/damage to personal belongings related to or arising from the event. Attendance is at your own risk. • Media Consent: By attending the event, you consent to the recording of your image and/or voice, which may be used online or offline for promotional and archival purposes. • Event Information: It is your responsibility to verify the event date, time, location, and age restrictions before attending. Please plan to arrive early to avoid any inconvenience. • Latecomer Policy: Latecomers may be denied entry, with no eligibility for ticket refunds, exchanges, or compensation. Please arrive on time to ensure an uninterrupted experience. • Security Inspection: Security personnel may inspect attendees and their belongings upon entry. Dangerous or prohibited items will be confiscated for the safety of all participants. • Code of Conduct: All attendees must follow a code of conduct that promotes public decen

How to get there

By car: There are many ways to reach your destination, including heading northwest on King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, turning left at 1st Street, taking the 1st exit at the roundabout, turning right, then left, and arriving at the destination on the right. GPS navigation is highly advised. By public transportation: For the shortest walk, take buses 9, 34, or 69 to the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St / Emirates Palace Hotel bus stop, followed by a 10-minute walk. By taxi: You can easily reach your destination by taking a taxi or by using a ride-hailing app.