Introducing Theme and Variations by George Balanchine

Theme and Variations is one of the best-known ballets choreographed by the man recognised as the father of American ballet – George Balanchine. 

The Georgian-American choreographer founded New York City Ballet, and is one of the most influential ballet figures of the 20th century.

Choreographed in 1947, this one-act ballet was inspired by the music of Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. 

The ballet opens with a corps de ballet of 12 women alongside a principal couple. As it unfolds, the choreography moves through a series of variations, weaving together solo performances from the ballerina and her partner with ensemble sections for the corps de ballet. In keeping with classical tradition, the work features a central pas de deux, before building to a grand polonaise that brings all 26 dancers together for a vibrant and climatic finale.

Balanchine said the ballet was intended ‘to evoke that great period in classical dancing when Russian ballet flourished with the aid of Tchaikovsky’s music’.*

*The George Balanchine Trust, 2025