Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
See Alabama Ballet’s exciting performance on May 8-10—get tickets now
Reading time: 3 minutes
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If you’re looking for something fresh and electric, put this performance on your calendar!
From May 8–10, Alabama Ballet takes the stage with Unbound: Serenade & Carmina Burana, performed alongside the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and Alabama Symphony Chorus.
What makes Unbound stand out is how different it feels from a typical Alabama Ballet production—it’s an annual tradition for the Ballet, and one fans look forward to catching. Each season brings a mix of new works and choreographic styles, so no two performances are ever quite the same.
Keep reading for more details and how to grab your tickets before they sell out.
Know before you go: performance times + ticket info
- When:
- Friday, May 8, 7:30PM
- Saturday, May 9, 7:30PM
- Sunday, May 10, 2PM
- Where
- Cost
- Prices vary per seating option | tickets begin at $60
- Purchase tickets
- Find out more
“I hope our audience leaves Unbound feeling energized, inspired and deeply moved—reminded of the power of the arts to transform, connect and stay with you long after the final curtain.”
Jenny Mann, Alabama Ballet Executive Director
Unbound: A bold series that always evolves
This year, Unbound opens with Balanchine’s Serenade, a neoclassical work set to Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade for Strings.”
It then shifts into the intensity of Carmina Burana, choreographed by Paul Vasterling and set to Orff’s score, performed live by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. This work requires significant artistic resources across music, dance and production.
For Alabama Ballet to take this on is a statement of ambition—and it helps position Birmingham as a city capable of producing major, world-class performances.
Carmina Burana focuses on fate and human desire, while Serenade, celebrating its 90th anniversary, offers a quieter look at connection, longing and fleeting moments. Together, they show the reflective sides of human experience.
The biggest highlight of this double feature is its sheer scale: the symphony in the pit, joined by an 82-person chorus and three vocal soloists onstage alongside the dancers.
“What sets this performance apart from past Unbound productions is its scale and collaborative spirit. Audiences will see our extraordinary company dancers joined onstage by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, the Alabama Symphony Chorus and guest soloists—an inspiring example of what’s possible when artists come together at the highest level.”
Christopher Stuart, Alabama Ballet Artistic Director
Don’t wait—grab your tickets to this can’t-miss performance!
Look forward to familiar favorites: Alabama Ballet’s Sapphire Season
Alabama Ballet has announced its 2026–2027 Sapphire Season, marking a 45-year milestone that celebrates the company’s commitment to classical tradition, American artistry and innovative contemporary works.
Audiences can look forward to a compelling mix of beloved classics and exciting new works, including:
- American Portraits
- At Home
- George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®
- Swan Lake
- Unbound
Click here for more info on these upcoming performances + season subscriptions.
Be sure to check out Alabama Ballet’s calendar + get your tickets to Unbound today!
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