Ballet Arizona’s annual “Ballet Under the Stars,” presented by the Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation, returns to Sahuaro  Ranch Historic Park in Glendale at 7 p.m. Sept. 25.

This free, family-friendly event is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of ballet under the open sky and an ideal introduction to the art form for young audiences, according to a press release.

Sahuaro Ranch Park is at 9802 N. 59th Ave.

“The Office of Arts and Culture and the Glendale Arts Commission is honored to continue our sponsorship of Ballet Under the Stars, and to be a host city for this dynamic event. Some of the greatest stories ever told will be encapsulated in one evening, providing an eclectic mix of performances that everyone can enjoy,” stated Chris Taylor, Glendale arts and culture administrator, in a press release.  

This year’s Ballet Under the Stars will include excerpts from both contemporary and classic ballets. Audiences will get to experience Robert Bondara’s captivating, “Take Me With You,” set to recorded music by the alternative rock band Radiohead.

In addition, Ballet Arizona will present two works by Artistic Director Daniela Cardim: “Nocturne,” a duet adorned by Frederic Chopin’s “Nocturne No. 13” as well as an excerpt from “The Sleeping Beauty,” which will grace the stage in full later this fall.

Since its inception in 1997, these performances provide an evening of fun for audiences of all ages. Guests bring chairs, blankets and picnics to experience the beauty of dance.

Beginning at 5, guests can enjoy pre-show activities including live music, outdoor games and other fun activities. Food vendors offering burgers, popcorn, and dessert, as well as community booths.

“Ballet Under the Stars is a fun, family-friendly event,” stated Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers. “And the best part, is that it’s free for our community. As the summer heat breaks, there’s no better time to enjoy this world-class performance right here in Glendale.”

Ballet Under the Stars also features world premiere performances choreographed by local elementary students through the Ballet Arizona’s Class Act program.

Each year, Ballet Arizona teaching artists lead a three-week dance training program at six schools across the Valley, guiding students through the creative and rehearsal process.

Their hard work culminates in a special on-stage performance as part of Ballet Under the Stars. This tuition-free educational program is made possible through the generous support of Joan Benjamin and Laurence Cherkis.

West Valley Performance Schedule

• Saturday, Sept. 20, at Centennial Plaza Park, 9875 N. 85th Ave., in Peoria
• Thursday, Sept. 25, at Sahuaro Ranch Historic Park, 9802 N. 59th Ave., in Glendale
• Friday, Sept. 26, at Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater, 10300 Estrella Pkwy., in Goodyear

For information about this year’s Ballet Under the Stars performances, visit balletaz.org or www.glendaleaz.com/play.