New World Symphony

Collaborations Between Miami City Ballet and New World Symphony

Under the leadership of Lourdes Lopez at Miami City Ballet (MCB) and Michael Tilson Thomas at New World Symphony (NWS), the two organizations forged groundbreaking collaborations that seamlessly blended orchestral music with ballet. These first-of-their-kind performances offered audiences the rare opportunity to “see the music and hear the dance” up close.

Their partnership reflected not only a shared dedication to excellence in ballet and music but also a deep creative lineage. Ms. Lopez studied under George Balanchine, while Tilson Thomas studied under Igor Stravinsky—two artistic visionaries whose collaborations defined some of the 20th century’s most enduring works.

The inaugural program, Stravinsky and Balanchine: A Monumental Collaboration, explored the artistic relationship between these two geniuses. The venue was reconfigured to integrate the orchestra and dancers, and performances were broadcast free to the community via NWS’s WALLCAST®, a 7,000-square-foot projection wall offering state-of-the-art sound and visuals. These broadcasts later reached millions worldwide through Medici TV.

The success of this initial partnership led to two subsequent collaborations: Stravinsky and Debussy Collaboration (Season Finale) and prohibido: Scenes from an Imaginary Ballet (World Premiere). Ms. Lopez and Tilson Thomas also supported a series of experimental projects between artists of MCB and NWS, including Justin Peck’s first commission for MCB, Chutes & Ladders in April 2013 and The Art of Partnering™ in July 2025.

Curated before Ms. Lopez stepped aside from Miami City Ballet, American Dance Odyssey marks another milestone in the partnership with NWS, under Ms. Lopez’s tenure. Conceived to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the program honors American artistry—past and present. The first half pays tribute to legendary choreographer Jerome Robbins, with excerpts from his landmark works across Broadway and ballet. The second half features world premieres: five American composers creating 5–7 minute suites, choreographed by five American choreographers, culminating in a choreographic concerto conducted by Stéphane Denève—the first of its kind.