Misty Copeland has assembled something you cannot normally see in one night: principal-level dancers from ABT, New York City Ballet, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Houston Ballet and Complexions on the same Chelsea stage. The repertory ranges from Roland Petit and John Taras to new work by Andrea Miller and James Whiteside, in a house intimate enough to see the landings. If you have been meaning to try ballet, a curated mixed bill is the ideal entry point.
What to expect
The program runs roughly two hours with an intermission, structured as a series of short works and pas de deux rather than one continuous narrative. Casting rotates across the run, so the printed insert matters. The Joyce's raked seating means sightlines are strong from almost anywhere in the house.
Good to know
- The Joyce sits at Eighth Avenue and 19th Street; the A, C, E and 1 are all close
- Matinee and evening programs differ slightly - check which works are on your date
- Arrive early enough to read the cast insert; casting rotates through the festival
- The house is small, so late seating is held to designated breaks
- The theater is fully accessible with wheelchair seating available on request
- Eighth Avenue in Chelsea has plenty of pre-show dinner options within a block
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Common questions
Who curated this festival?
Misty Copeland, the American Ballet Theatre principal, curated the 2026 Joyce Ballet Festival.
How long is the program?
The Week 2 program runs roughly two hours including one intermission.
Does Misty Copeland dance in it?
She serves as curator of the festival; the performing roster is drawn from companies including ABT, NYCB, DTH, Houston Ballet and Complexions.
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