New York City Ballet History and Facts
Interested in learning the history of New York City Ballet? Want to find cool New York City Ballet facts and trivia? You're in the right place! With NYCtourist's Guide to NYC Ballet History, you'll learn everything you need to know about the New York City Ballet!
New York City Ballet was conceived by writer and art connoisseur Lincoln Kirstein, who as a young man had dreamed of creating a ballet company that would utilize American talent as opposed to that of touring international groups. In 1933, Kirstein met Russian-born choreographer George Balanchine in London and invited him to come to the U.S. and work as choreographer.
After numerous setbacks, including the Second World War, Kirstein and Balachine resumed their quest to bring the best ballet productions to America. Their dream became a reality in 1948, when Morton Baum, then-chairman of City Center's Finance Committee, expressed his interest in funding the company. Today, the New York City Ballent Company features approximately 90 dancers and an active repertory of 150 works.
New York City Ballet Facts and Trivia
- Number of Dancers: About 90.
- Active Repertory: 150 works.
- Debut of Balanchine's The Nutcracker: 1954.
- Number of Stories in David H. Koch Theater: 13.
- Cost of David H. Koch Theater: $19.3 million.
