December 14 , 2005

All-inclusive ticket packages for the 2006 USA International Ballet Competition (USA IBC), scheduled for June 17 – July 2, 2006, at Thalia Mara Hall, will go on sale to the public on Monday, January 2, 2006. Ticket packages include admission to all 16 performances during the two-week event and are discounted 15 percent off the price of individual performance tickets. Individual performance tickets will be available for purchase April 3, 2006.

Every four years, Mississippi dance enthusiasts are part of an international audience that converges in Jackson to see some of the world’s best dancers perform in dazzling competition. Due to the popularity of the event, the public is encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. All-inclusive packages include tickets for each round of competition, as well as the Opening Ceremony and the Awards Gala. Package prices are $202 for rear-orchestra and lower-balcony seating, $275 for loge and orchestra seating and $339 for dress-circle seating.

“IBC tickets are in high demand as soon as the box office opens, and the best seats usually sell out early” said Aislynn Thomas, USA IBC box office manager. “Purchasing a ticket package is a great value and an excellent way to secure the best seats for the most popular nights of the competition − opening night, round three and the awards gala.”

Each night, the USA IBC offers spectacular dance performances from the classical and contemporary ballet repertoire. Typically, audience members who attend each performance develop a preference for their favorite dancers and cheer them on to advance to the next round.

“Audience members can expect to see the very highest level of artistry in the competitors we’ve chosen,” said Sue Lobrano, executive director of the USA IBC. “In addition, performances by guest companies such as Garth Fagan Dance and Ballet Hispanico will allow local audiences to enjoy the best of contemporary dance, a fusion of styles that is different, topical and fresh.”

Dance-related exhibits, master classes and a performance by Regional Dance America will also be held in conjunction with the 2006 competition. For more ticket information or to order packages for the 2006 USA IBC, please contact USA IBC Box Office Manager Aislynn Thomas at 601.973.9249, Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Additional ticket information can also be found by clicking here.