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.

We are performing Theme and Variations as part of our 20th-Century Masterpieces triple bill on 19 and 20 June 2026.

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