The following is from a press release:
Nashville Ballet is thrilled to announce 10-time GRAMMY nominee and Grand Ole Opry member Jamey Johnson will headline the entertainment for the 37th Annual Ballet Ball on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Inspired by the timeless beauty of Swan Lake, the highly-anticipated gala will blend classical elegance with contemporary celebration in honor of the Nashville Ballet’s milestone 40th Season. Johnson’s appearance will mark his second appearance at the annual Ballet Ball, as he was part of a Johnny Cash tribute lineup in 2018.
“I am excited to perform for a world-class arts organization like Nashville Ballet and their patrons who recognize the power of storytelling through dance and music,” said Jamey Johnson. “Nashville has an incredible arts scene right here in our own backyard and I’m thrilled to be performing for a community that truly values creativity.”
Renowned for its sweeping romance, haunting beauty, and emotional depth, Swan Lake will influence every detail of the evening, from ethereal design elements to dramatic staging to evoking the elegance, mystery and grandeur of Tchaikovsky’s beloved work. Esteemed Nashville event planner Bruce Pittman has been charged with bringing this vision to life.
“The Ballet Ball is where Nashville’s creative spirit, generosity, and love for the arts truly come together,” said Nick Mullikin, Artistic Director & CEO of Nashville Ballet. “As we celebrate our 40th Season with a Swan Lake-inspired evening, welcoming an artist of Jamey Johnson’s caliber elevates the experience for our patrons while directly supporting the work we do onstage and throughout the community.”
Ballet Ball patrons will enjoy a gourmet dining experience by Kristen Winston Catering, paired with handcrafted cocktails and curated beverages provided by Lipman Brothers, LLC. The gala celebration will continue into the evening with the Late Party to include dancing with Bizz and Everyday People band.
Community leaders Neil Krugman, Lisa Manning, and Julie Schneider are the Ball Co-Chairs, alongside Honorary Chair Barbara Turner, helping lead one of Nashville Ballet’s most important fundraising events. Additionally, Catherine Bradbury, Eli Gibbons, Sophie Scott Howard, Preston Howard and Kimberly Macdonald are the Late Party Co-Chairs for one of Nashville’s most anticipated and impactful evenings of the year.
The annual black-tie event is a cornerstone fundraiser for Nashville Ballet and a driving force behind the organization’s Community Engagement and Education Initiatives. During the 2024–25 season alone, these programs delivered more than 55,000 arts experiences to Middle Tennesseans, including free tickets to Nashville’s Nutcracker, Storytime performances at local libraries and dance education programs in 40 schools. With over 23,000 individuals reached through free performances, Nashville Ballet continues ensuring the beauty and impact of dance remain accessible to all.
The Ballet Ball’s Swan Lake-inspired theme pays homage to one of ballet’s most iconic masterpieces as the full-length production returns to TPAC’s Jackson Hall from February 27 – March 1, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at NashvilleBallet.com or by phone at 615-297-2966 ext. 710.
