Minnesota Dance Festival - BALLET MINNESOTA

The MINNESOTA DANCE FESTIVAL was first presented in 1988 by Andrew & Cheryl Rist at The St Paul Student Center Theater. Many dance companies and independent choreographers have been presented including: TU Dance, Ragmala Dance Company, Minnesota Dance Theatre, Ballet of The Dolls, James Sewell Ballet, Duluth Ballet, Colorado Ballet, El Ballet Mexicano and many more.

A core of the Festival is to present a Classical Ballet each year restaged by Ballet Minnesota. Classics presented include Swan Lake, La Bayadere, Giselle, Don Quixote, Les Sylphides and others.

The goal is to bring together the rich dance heritage of Minnesota and present its amazing diversity to the people of Minnesota.

As we conclude the 2026 Minnesota Dance Festival season, we want to extend our gratitude to all the dancers who brought their passion, dedication and artistry to the stage. Thank you for sharing your talent and inspiring audiences throughout the festival.