Ballet Ariel

Ballet Ariel presents original ballets that combine classical tradition and images of contemporary culture, while providing dance education and fostering appreciation of the art of ballet.

Ballet Ariel History
Ballet Ariel is a professional company located in Denver, Colorado specializing in expressive, narrative ballets that meld classical traditions with contemporary themes and interpretations. Founded in 1998 by Director Ilena Norton, Ballet Ariel has evolved into a laboratory for developing original classical ballets; a collaborative environment where the beauty of classical ballet comes together with narrative storytelling and a contemporary vision. In addition to developing new ballets, Ballet Ariel also stages classical works.

Ballet Ariel emphasizes diversity in its company and education programs and offers an eclectic repertoire to attract broad spectrum audiences and participants. Ballet Ariel has performed at the Cleo Parker Robinson Theatre since 1998, and now performs regularly at the Lakewood Cultural Center, the Schoolhouse Theatre, the PACE Center, and the Pinnacle Events Center. Ballet Ariel has also performed throughout the Denver metro area in the SCFD summerfest series at the Arvada Center, the Cherry Hills Winter Cultural Series, the Denver Ballet Guild Showcase of Dance, the Mile High Dance Festival, the Denver Botanic Gardens SCFD series and others. Ballet Ariel has performed on tour in Leadville at the Tabor Opera House, Durango, and with Artcore in Casper, Wyoming.