The Company

Miami City Ballet's mission is to produce and present the highest level of dance performances throughout Florida, the United States and abroad, train young aspiring dancers, and develop Miami City Ballet School into a leader of dance education.

Miami City Ballet (MCB) is one of America’s premier ballet companies, recognized nationally and internationally for its artistic excellence, vibrant style, and innovative spirit. Founded in 1985 by Miami philanthropist Toby Lerner Ansin and ballet legend Edward Villella, MCB has earned its place as a leader in the field—nurturing new choreographic voices, forging bold collaborations, and championing greater inclusivity in classical ballet.

Guided by Artistic Director Lourdes Lopez from 2012 to 2025, MCB’s repertory has grown to include more than 100 ballets, including over a dozen world premieres. Rooted in the style, technique, and legacy of George Balanchine, the company’s repertoire has expanded to embrace treasured classical works and trailblazing contemporary choreography from the world’s most exciting artists.

Based in Miami, MCB presents annual seasons in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, reaching over 132,000 patrons each year with a dynamic slate of performances—including four diverse programs, the beloved holiday classic George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, and a robust national touring schedule.

The company has performed across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, earning acclaim from audiences and critics alike. MCB’s 2016 debut at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater was celebrated as a triumph. The New York Times’ Alastair Macaulay declared: “Of all the ballet troupes who have visited the Koch in recent years, none looks so truly and completely a company.”

In January 2000, Miami City Ballet took occupancy of its own Miami Beach headquarters, the Ophelia & Juan Js. Roca Center. Our 63,000 square foot facility houses eight rehearsal studios (two of which combine to create a 200-seat theater), school facilities, MCB’s wardrobe department and costume shop, a fully equipped therapy room, and administrative space. The building was designed by the award-winning architect Bernardo Fort-Brescia of ARQUITECTONICA.