New Orleans Ballet Theatre

The mission of New Orleans Ballet Theatre (NOBT) is to be the premier resident ballet company of the Gulf South, internationally renowned for world-class performances, innovative choreography and outstanding professional training, enriching our community and expanding access to dance.

Gregory Schramel and Marjorie Hardwick founded New Orleans Ballet Theatre in 2002 with the goal of providing local dancers a platform to pursue a full-time career in ballet. Over 20 years later, NOBT has evolved into Louisiana's premier ballet company, becoming the prestigious example and epicenter of classical and contemporary ballet for the Gulf Coast Region.

While first established as a pick-up company, NOBT's ultimate goal had always been to have a full-time resident company, which NOBT proudly accomplished during the 2021-2022 season. The current 2024-2025 season has 15 dancers on full-time contracts, and an additional 7 trainee artists working closely with the company. With a strong professional company now in place, NOBT's foremost goal is to meet the needs of the community by offering excellent concert dance and dance education to New Orleans residents across all ages and backgrounds. NOBT is an artistic reflection of a city that vibrantly stands out in its lustrous and diverse culture. The company is shifting its focus outward and becoming an ambassador on a national level; it seeks to share and represent the unique interplay of multi-ethnic and creative influences.

Testimonials

"I attended your performance on October 27 and must say, I was completely captivated. It's been a long time since I've seen a ballet with such creativity and energy. The entire production was remarkable. Seeing Dracula has renewed my interest in dance and ballet, reminding me of what first inspired me in this art form. Today, as I head back to Portland, I can't wait to share this experience with my friends and our local dance community." - Taylor Edwards-Crider