Ballet will always have its classics—the big-name companies with centuries of history behind them. But if you’ve been paying attention lately, you’ll know the art form is evolving. And that evolution is being driven, in part, by a new wave of emerging ballet companies making bold choices, amplifying underrepresented voices, and pushing boundaries in the most exciting ways. As someone who’s spent years immersed in ballet, both performing and watching, I’ve loved witnessing this fresh energy take the stage.

Why Emerging Ballet Companies Matter

While traditional companies uphold legacy works and long-standing technique, emerging companies often have more room to take risks. That means:

  • Experimenting with new choreographic styles

  • Collaborating across disciplines

  • Prioritizing inclusivity and access

  • Showcasing talent from diverse backgrounds

These companies are shaking up ballet’s image—and in the best way.

Internal Influence: Ballet Meets Modern Storytelling

Many of these new companies are also finding innovative ways to blend classical technique with contemporary narratives.

6 Ballet Companies You Should Be Watching

Here are a few of the standout emerging ballet companies that have caught my eye—and the eyes of critics and audiences alike:

1. Ballet22 – Oakland, California

Ballet22 is challenging traditional gender norms in ballet by featuring dancers of all gender identities en pointe. Their performances are both technically impressive and culturally relevant.

2. Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami – Miami, Florida

Founded by former Miami City Ballet principals, this company delivers rich, contemporary work while staying grounded in strong classical technique. Their mixed-rep programs showcase the vibrant diversity of Miami itself.

3. The TL Collective – Los Angeles, California

Founded by choreographer Micaela Taylor, this group fuses ballet, hip-hop, and contemporary styles. Every performance I’ve seen from them has felt fresh, honest, and deeply human.

4. AXIS Dance Company – Oakland, California

While technically a contemporary company, AXIS incorporates ballet language and is one of the most important inclusive dance companies in the U.S., featuring dancers with and without disabilities. Their work challenges what ballet can look like and who it’s for.

5. New York Theatre Ballet – New York, NY

Small in size but big in vision, NYTB stages lesser-known classical works alongside bold new creations. Their dedication to preserving ballet history while commissioning modern choreographers makes them a rare gem.

6. BalletCollective – New York, NY

Founded by New York City Ballet principal dancer Troy Schumacher, BalletCollective brings artists from different mediums—writers, composers, visual artists—into the creative process. Their shows are thoughtful, collaborative, and visually striking.

Where Innovation Meets Integrity

What I admire most about these companies is that they don’t throw technique out the window. They’re still rooted in the precision and discipline ballet demands—but they’re building something more inclusive and representative of the world we live in today.

Where to See These Companies Perform

Many of these companies perform at festivals and on independent tours. If you want to experience the future of ballet firsthand, I recommend:

  • Checking company websites for touring schedules

  • Watching excerpts on platforms like YouTube or Instagram

  • Following them during regional dance festivals

Bonus: Discover More on Ballet Culture

Interested in how ballet is expanding beyond the stage? You’ll enjoy our feature on ballet’s growing role in pop culture.

Final Thoughts

Supporting emerging ballet companies is about more than watching a great show—it’s about fueling the future of dance. These companies represent ballet’s next chapter: one that’s open-minded, inclusive, and brilliantly creative.