Established in 1961 by Lillian Covillo and Freidann Parker, Colorado Ballet is a non-profit organization celebrating nearly 65 years of presenting world-class classical ballet and innovative dance in Denver. Colorado Ballet's 40 professional Company dancers and 20 Studio Company dancers present more than 60 classical and contemporary ballet performances every year. As the premier ballet training institution in the state, Colorado Ballet Academy provides training to students ages 2 ½ through adult, beginner through pre-professional. Colorado Ballet’s outstanding education and community engagement programs enable thousands to experience the magic of dance.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Gil Boggs and his artistic team, Colorado Ballet presents classical ballet masterpieces and full-length story ballets, as well as its critically acclaimed repertory production Ballet MasterWorks, which includes neoclassical ballets, contemporary works and innovative world premieres.
All productions at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House feature live music by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra. The Company also encourages the development of new works through Fancy Footwork productions, which feature new ballets choreographed and performed by Colorado Ballet’s dancers. Every season since 1961, Colorado Ballet has also presented the beloved holiday classic The Nutcracker to audiences in Denver.
Colorado Ballet Academy, the official school of Colorado Ballet, follows the highest and most up-to-date standards in ballet training. Instruction begins as young as age 2.5 with Twinkle Tots, giving young students a strong foundation for the study of classical ballet. Starting at age seven, students enter Level 1 and progress through the program based on their age, experience, and ability. The Academy’s carefully structured curriculum supports each dancer’s development, guiding them from their first steps to a comprehensive, well-rounded ballet education.
Colorado Ballet’s Pre-Professional Division is designed to bridge the gap between student training and a professional dance career within a focused, supportive environment. This audition-based program emphasizes the development of the whole artist, offering instruction that extends beyond technique to include the skills and artistry needed for today’s ballet world. Through this comprehensive approach, dancers graduate as well-rounded, confident performers prepared for the demands of a professional career.
The Adult Dance Program serves a diverse community of adults ages 18 and older, offering classes for all levels—from absolute beginner through advanced. The program includes ballet, ballet performance, jazz, contemporary, and conditioning, providing a well-rounded approach to both technique and overall fitness. Whether exploring dance for the first time or continuing prior training, students benefit from a supportive environment that encourages growth, artistry, and personal expression.
Colorado Ballet's education and community engagement programs serve in-need students, teachers, families, people with disabilities and lifelong learners in Colorado. These programs make more than 35,000 contacts each year in 300 schools and organizations. The mission is simple, Every. Body. Dance!
Every - To make dance accessible to everyone.
Body - To promote dance and movement as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Dance - To encourage creativity and expression through dance, and foster an appreciation for ballet.