Production highlights the company’s 60th Anniversary Season and features both professional dancers and academy students
Minnesota Ballet will present its enchanting spring production of Sleeping Beauty this weekend at the Marshall Performing Arts Center at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Performances will take place Friday, March 13 at 7 pm; Saturday, March 14 at 3 pm; and Sunday, March 15 at 3 pm, with a special sensory-friendly performance on Saturday, March 14 at 11 am.
Part of Minnesota Ballet’s 60th Anniversary Season, this beloved classical ballet invites audiences into a magical world of fairies, curses, and true love’s awakening kiss. Set to the sweeping score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and inspired by the classic fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty tells the story of Princess Aurora, who is cursed by the evil Carabosse to fall into a deep sleep on her 16th birthday. Protected by the Lilac Fairy and awakened a century later by a courageous prince, the ballet culminates in a joyful royal celebration.
The production showcases the artistry of Minnesota Ballet’s professional dance company alongside talented young dancers from Minnesota Ballet Academy, highlighting the organization’s commitment to both artistic excellence and dance education in the Northland.
As a Duluth-based nonprofit arts organization, Minnesota Ballet has served the community for six decades—bringing world-class ballet to local audiences while training generations of dancers through its academy.
“Sleeping Beauty is one of the great classical ballets and a wonderful celebration of the artistry and tradition of ballet,” said Artistic Executive Director Karl von Rabenau. “During our 60th anniversary season, it is especially meaningful to share the stage with both our professional company and students, reflecting the generations of dancers who have grown through Minnesota Ballet.”
The sensory-friendly performance on Saturday at 11 am offers a welcoming and inclusive environment designed for individuals who benefit from a more relaxed theater setting. Adjustments include modified lighting and sound levels, freedom to move in and out of the theater, and a supportive atmosphere for audience members with sensory sensitivities, autism or other accessibility needs.
Tickets and additional information are available at minnesotaballet.org.
