Ballet Beyond Borders Returns to Missoula January 13–16, 2027
International artists, Montana dancers, cultural diplomacy, and a spectacular Gala highlight the 2027 celebration
MISSOULA, MT — Ballet Beyond Borders (BBB) returns to Missoula January 13–16, 2027, continuing a tradition that audiences have enjoyed since the event began in 2016. Bringing together outstanding dancers, choreographers, and cultural representatives from Montana and around the world, BBB once again transforms Missoula into a gathering place for international dance, artistic exchange, and cultural diplomacy.
This year's program features the return of audience-favorite Montana dancers and Salish Kootenai dancers alongside international artists from Romania, Syria, Brazil, Cuba, Serbia, and Russia. Through performances, film, and international presentations, Ballet Beyond Borders celebrates the power of the arts to connect people and cultures across borders. All events except the Gala are free and open to the public.
THE 2027 BALLET BEYOND BORDERS SCHEDULE
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13
6:00 PM – Chinese New Year Celebration FREE
Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC) 216 W Main St Missoula, MT
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with an evening honoring Chinese culture, traditions, and the connections that bring communities together.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15
6:00 PM – Documentary Film Screening: Mi Sueño Cubano FREE
University of Montana, University Center, 3rd Floor Movie Theater
Experience the story and artistry of Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba through the documentary Mi Sueño Cubano. 'My Cuban Dream' isa documentary by Spanish filmmaker Christian Dehugo that captures the identity and artistic discipline of Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba. The screening will be followed by a discussion about the internationally acclaimed Cuban dance company and the role of dance in cultural identity and international exchange.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16
9:00 AM – BBB Cultural Diplomacy Conference FREE
University of Montana, University Center Ballroom
Presentations from Cuba, Serbia, Brazil, and Russia will bring international perspectives to a morning of cultural dialogue and exchange. The conference explores the role of arts and culture in building understanding, strengthening relationships, and connecting communities across borders.
6:00 PM – Ballet Beyond Borders Gala
Dennison Theatre, University of Montana
The weekend culminates with the highly anticipated BBB Gala, featuring an extraordinary gathering of international artists from Romania and Brazil, special guest international ballet star Jorge Barani from Cuba, and the return of BBB's own Montana dancers, whose performances have become audience favorites. The Gala celebrates the artistry, creativity, and cultural traditions that make Ballet Beyond Borders a unique international experience. Tickets sold through Griz Tix.
Since its founding in Missoula in 2016, Ballet Beyond Borders has welcomed artists and cultural representatives from around the world, creating lasting relationships through dance and artistic collaboration. What began as an international dance gathering has grown into a platform for cultural diplomacy, bringing together established and emerging artists while giving Montana dancers the opportunity to share the stage with performers from across the globe.
Ballet Beyond Borders continues to demonstrate that movement is a universal language—one that inspires, connects, and empowers people across cultures.
Listen to this podcast with Dance Talk’s Joanne Carey interviewing Charlene Campbell Carey titled “Ballet Beyond Borders: Working in Harmony via the Arts.”
BBB embraces the changing landscapes of our global dance art form. While excellence is our goal, we also seek to preserve the heritage we passionately share. We strive to protect, inspire, and connect the next generation of young artists with professionals of the highest caliber and with mentors that align with these ideals. Ballet Beyond Borders is a Ballet Nation that serves as a catalyst for promoting cooperation and easing conflict by creating mutual understanding and using dance to advocate for human rights, justice, and global peace.
