LOUISVILLE, KY — Louisville Ballet is pleased to announce a monumental highlight of its historic 75th Diamond Anniversary season: the return of world-renowned dance icon Mikhail Baryshnikov for an exclusive evening of conversation. Taking place February 12–13, 2027, the event will coincide with the premiere of Resident Choreographer Andrea Schermoly’s Carmen, creating a historic homecoming that celebrates his profound legacy and enduring connection to Louisville Ballet.
Baryshnikov’s history with Louisville Ballet dates back to the 1978-79 and 1979-80 seasons. His historic 1978 debut alongside beloved then-principal dancer Helen Starr, followed by his electrifying performance with Patricia McBride, which skyrocketed Louisville Ballet’s subscription base, cemented a legendary partnership. His landmark performance of the title role in Petrouchka at the Louisville Memorial Auditorium in October 1979 remains a pinnacle moment in Louisville’s cultural history.
Joining Baryshnikov for this unforgettable weekend are fellow ballet legends and Kentuckians, Wendy Whelan and Clinton Luckett, creating an extraordinary gathering of dance royalty in Louisville.
“For our dancers to share space, energy, and conversation with legends who have quite literally shaped the history of American dance is a life-changing gift,” said Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp.
A Louisville native, Wendy Whelan began her journey at the Louisville Ballet Academy at age eight, debuting as a mouse in The Nutcracker. Her intensive training there paved the way for a scholarship to the School of American Ballet in 1981, launching her legendary 30-year career as a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, where she currently serves as Associate Artistic Director.
Born in Louisville, Clinton Luckett began his early dance training and performed with Louisville Ballet. This foundational experience ultimately propelled him to the National Ballet School of Canada, a 10-year career with the American Ballet Theatre, and, ultimately, to his current role there as Associate Artistic Director.
The weekend features a series of special programs anchored by the headline event, “Stories from Legends.” This rare panel brings Mikhail Baryshnikov, Clinton Luckett, and Wendy Whelan together to share firsthand accounts of their historic, deeply personal relationships with the company and their enduring legacies in dance.
“We are thrilled that Mikhail Baryshnikov will join us to celebrate the Ballet’s 75th anniversary, given the lasting impact he has made to the ballet community but also to the entire arts world,” said Jennifer A. Moore, Co-Chair of the 75th Diamond Anniversary Committee. “Louisville is an arts destination, and welcoming legends Mikhail Baryshnikov, Wendy Whelan, and Clinton Luckett back to Louisville Ballet is truly the jewel in the crown of this extraordinary anniversary year.”
The following is a list of featured events scheduled for February 12 and 13, 2027. All events take place in the Brown Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom. Carmen will be performed at The Brown Theatre on February 12 and 13. Performance tickets are sold separately.
Complete Schedule of Events
Stories of Legends – Prelude to the Performance
Date: Friday, February 12, 2027
Time: 5:45 – 7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $250 per person
Celebrate Louisville Ballet’s historic 75th Anniversary Season at an exclusive pre-performance reception welcoming ballet enthusiasts, patrons, and supporters. This extraordinary gathering offers a rare opportunity to hear reflections, stories, and conversation with three legendary artists whose remarkable careers each share a unique connection to Louisville Ballet: Mikhail Baryshnikov, Wendy Whelan, and Clinton Luckett. Guests will enjoy curated cocktails and chef-selected hors d’oeuvres while commemorating 75 years of artistic excellence and the enduring legacy of dance.
Matinee Decadence: Champagne and Chocolates
- Date: Saturday, February 13, 2027
- Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Tickets: $50 per person
Featuring curated artistic insights and commentary from Louisville Ballet Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp and Resident Choreographer Andrea Schermoly, the creative force behind Carmen, the event will provide guests with a deeper appreciation of the artistry behind this innovative production. Guests will enjoy premium champagne and chocolates alongside an exclusive opportunity to mingle with dance icon Clinton Luckett, Associate Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre.
Las Vegas After Dark Disco and Casino
- Date: Saturday, February 13, 2027
- Time: 9:30 p.m. – Midnight
- Tickets: $150 per person
The celebration continues when the curtain falls with a dazzling Las Vegas-inspired finale! Join us after the performance for an unforgettable evening featuring live music, dancing, casino-style gaming, handcrafted cocktails, chef-curated small plates, decadent desserts, and festive late-night revelry as we toast to Carmen and Louisville Ballet’s milestone 75th Anniversary. Joining the celebration will be Clinton Luckett, Associate Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre, adding to a memorable evening honoring the artistry and legacy of dance.
Ticket Information & Availability
For more information about becoming a subscriber and/or to purchase tickets to a performance or event, visit louisvilleballet.org or call the box office at (502) 583-2623.
