Attend USA IBC XIII
The dance world comes to Jackson June 12 – 26, 2027, for the 13th USA International Ballet Competition
Come for a day, a round, or two full weeks of world-class dance.
As the third-oldest international ballet competition in the world, the USA IBC attracts top dancers, dance industry professionals, and audience members from around the globe. Two full weeks of competition performances and special programs are scheduled. All competition performances are held at Thalia Mara Hall, 255 E. Pascagoula St.
Questions about tickets? Call the Box Office (601) 973-9249
Tickets will be on sale soon.
Performance Tickets
With 16 live ballet performances, there are so many options to see the USA IBC. Learn more about each performance below.
The Gertrude C. Ford Opening Ceremony
Thalia Mara Hall
$42 – $70
The 13th USA International Ballet Competition kicks off with the Parade of Nations honoring the more than 20 countries represented by the Competitors and Jury. Accompanied by the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, the Competitors take center stage as they represent their countries and the best of the ballet world. Following the ceremony, The Washington Ballet, led by Artistic Director Julie Kent and including many competition alumni, will perform company repertoire.
ROUND I — CLASSICAL
Thalia Mara Hall
Matinee: $10 – $15 Evening: $20 – $25
Spread over six sessions, the audience will have the chance to see the Competitors perform their classical repertoires. Soloists perform two pieces and couples perform a pas de deux during each session.
ROUND 2 — CONTEMPORARY
Thalia Mara Hall
$25 – $35
Semi-finalists return to the stage to demonstrate their artistry and athleticism as they present a contemporary piece and vie for a coveted spot in the finals.
ROUND 3 — FINALS
Thalia Mara Hall
$35 – $55
Finalists perform new classical and contemporary pieces with the goal of being awarded a medal and cash prizes at the 2027 USA IBC!
The Awards Gala
Thalia Mara Hall
$55-85
Featuring music by the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, the Awards Gala is the highly anticipated presentation of awards and medals to the talented XII USA IBC medalists. Audience members will enjoy Jury-selected performances by the winners. Required: Purchase of one Round 3 performance ticket
Encore Gala
Thalia Mara Hall
$20-65
Come to see the best of the best as the finalists perform their finest works for the last time at the competition! Accompanied by the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, these masterful performances conclude the festivities of the 2027 USA International Ballet Competition.
Edward Stierle Contemporary Showcase
Belhaven Performing Arts Center
$15
This performance showcases the contemporary repertoires and talents of the competitors eliminated after Round 1. Join us for a wonderful showcase of contemporary repertoire!
Additional Events
In addition to our performances, the USA IBC will host additional events for patrons. Check out our fantastic Arts & Lecture series, observe a Competitor or Dance School class, or celebrate at the Grand Prix Ball. Read below to learn more.
The 2027 Arts & Lecture Series allows patrons to participate in seminars, feedback sessions, and guest lectures to learn more about the ballet world.
Competitor Observation Classes give patrons the opportunity to observe the competitor classes and masterclasses that the competitors take daily.
Dance School Observation Classes give patrons the opportunity to observe the dance school classes and masterclasses that students take daily. Observation Sessions are held 9:00-10:45 am, 11:00-12:00 pm, and 1:15-2:15pm unless otherwise noted.
Competitor Autograph Party
Jackson Convention Center
Meet the 2027 USA IBC competitors and receive their autographs!
Tutu.com Fashion Show
The Westin
See tutu designers’ creations and bid on the 2027 Tutu.com silent auction!
Grand Prix Ball
Jackson Convention Center
The “O” Pass
Purchasing an “O” pass will grant you access to ALL Competitor and Dance School observation classes, masterclasses, and the Arts & Lecture series. See the full schedule of included events below!
The 2027 Arts & Lecture Series allows patrons to participate in seminars, feedback sessions, and guest lectures to learn more about the ballet world.
Competitor Observation Classes give patrons the opportunity to observe the competitor classes and masterclasses that the competitors take daily.
Dance School Observation Classes give patrons the opportunity to observe the dance school classes and masterclasses that students take daily. Observation Sessions are held 9:00-10:45 am, 11:00-12:00 pm, and 1:15-2:15pm unless otherwise noted.