Biography
Ballet Midwest was founded in 1977 and has grown into Topeka’s premier civic ballet company, dedicated to enriching the community through dance. The company’s artistic direction has evolved under Lacee Sandgren, who was appointed in 2014 and currently serves as the sole artistic director. This leadership has nurtured a diverse repertoire and a commitment to both classic and contemporary works, presented with technical precision and expressive storytelling.
Repertoire Highlights
- Sleeping Beauty
- Giselle
- Swan Lake
- Cinderella
- Romeo and Juliet
- Coppélia
- Midsummer Night’s Dream
- Firebird
- La Fille Mal Gardée
- Don Quixote
- Billy the Kid
Venue
Primary performances take place at the Topeka Performing Arts Center (TPAC), a central venue known for its focus on high-quality stage productions. TPAC hosts the Nutcracker each holiday season, and serves as the home for major spring productions like Don Quixote, as well as seasonal shows such as Once Upon a Ballet. For fans across the region, Ballet Midwest brings polished storytelling through dance to TPAC’s stages.
Upcoming Tour & Productions
- Nutcracker at TPAC: December 12–14, 2025. The Nutcracker remains a Topeka holiday tradition since 1977.
- Wildly Creative at the Topeka Zoo: August 30, 2025—an imaginative program blending ballet with wildlife-inspired performance.
- Once Upon a Ballet: April 2026—reimagined short ballet works for family audiences.
- Don Quixote at TPAC: Spring 2026 (dates subject to change; commonly listed as April 11–12 or April 18–19).
For the latest schedule updates, venue details, and performance dates, check Ballet Midwest’s official channels. Social media and the official site provide current announcements, casting notes, and behind-the-scenes insights.
Social Media & Official Site
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