​Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Will Host Annual Free, Outdoor Performance

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will welcome back its popular, annual Ballet Under the Stars performance on Sunday, August 23, 2026. The free program will include sneak peeks at new works from PBT's upcoming 2026-27 season and favorites from last season. Three original works choreographed by PBT artists Matthew Griffin and Madison Russo will also be featured, including Russo's award-winning ballet Spina.

This event will provide an exclusive sneak preview of the newly choreographed Adagio by Trey McIntyre, from PBT's upcoming version of The Nutcracker, which will premiere in December 2027.

This magical, family-friendly evening will unfold at the picturesque Middle Road Concert Area in Hartwood Acres Park, offering a one-of-a-kind ballet experience under the open sky. It is part of Allegheny County's 2026 Summer Concert Series. Register for the event and for a chance to win a 5-ballet subscription.

“We have an extra special Ballet Under the Stars program this year that I am positive the audience will absolutely love,” said Adam W. McKinney, PBT artistic director. “Not only does the performance include ballets from last season and this coming season, but attendees will get a first look at the new version of The Nutcracker that we are planning for 2027. I hope everyone enjoys watching our artists on the beautiful outdoor stage at Hartwood Acres and having the opportunity to interact with them during the event.”

Ballet Under the Stars is generously presented by The Charity Randall Foundation and sponsored by Allegheny County. The pre-performance “Picnic in the Park” is generously underwritten by The Restelli Family.

The schedule of events for Ballet Under the Stars includes:

Free Pre-Show Family Activities // 5:30-7:30 p.m.

There's something for everyone to enjoy before the main performance begins. Attendees are invited to arrive early to enjoy a variety of activities, including picnics and food trucks, as well as free children's activities such as crafts with the Kamin Science Center and Buzzword, face painting, balloon art, and mini dance classes at 6:00 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. led by a PBT teaching artist. 

Picnic in the Park // 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Join fellow ballet enthusiasts and PBT's artistic director, Adam W. McKinney, under the tent for drinks, dinner, and the opportunity to meet and chat with PBT artists. Tickets are $100 for adults and $25 for children. Register online or call Associate Director of Development Aziza El Feil at 412-454-9127 for more information.

Free Mixed Repertory Performance // 7:30 p.m.

As the sun sets, PBT will present a stunning mixed repertory performance featuring classical and contemporary ballet works. The performance program is as follows, subject to change:

Company B Excerpts | Choreography by Paul Taylor

Pennsylvania Polka
Tico Tico
I Can Dream Can't I?

Giselle Pas de Deux  | New staging by Adam W. McKinney after Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot

The Sleeping Beauty Excerpts | New staging by Adam W. McKinney after Marius Petipa 

The Nutcracker Excerpts (current version) |  Choreography by Terrence S. Orr

Snow Scene
Elegance Pas De Deux

Alice in Wonderland Sneak Peek | Choreography by Matthew Griffin (PBT Artist)

Giselle Peasant Pas De Huit | New staging by Adam W. McKinney after Jean Coralli and Jules Perrot

A Midsummer Night's Dream Pas de Deux  | Choreography by Ben Stevenson

Spina | Choreography by Madison Russo (PBT Artist)

Spring Mix World Premiere Excerpts | Choreography by Omar Román de Jesús

The Nutcracker Adagio (new version) | Choreography by Trey McIntyre

Need more Pittsburgh Theatre News in your life?
Sign up for all the news on the Summer season, discounts & more...