Smuin Ballet Opened 33rd Season in San Francisco
The dance company launched its latest season at the Cowell Theater with a program titled French Kiss.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Dance
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Smuin Ballet has opened its 33rd season in San Francisco with the premiere of a new program titled French Kiss. The production is being hosted at the Cowell Theater at Fort Mason.
Why it matters
The program highlights the company's artistic direction by balancing the revival of past works with the debut of new choreography. This seasonal launch sets the tone for the organization as it approaches future milestones.
Tickets for the run range from $25 to $100. The season features three distinct works, including a revival of the 2002 piece Stabat Mater and a 2023 tribute to the band Pink Martini.
The players
Smuin Ballet
This is a prominent San Francisco-based dance company known for its unique blend of classical and contemporary styles.
Michael Smuin
He was the late founder of the ballet company whose legacy continues to be celebrated by the organization.
My'Kal Stromile
He is a choreographer who created the new world premiere ballet featured in the current season program.
Amy Seiwert
She is a choreographer whose 2023 tribute to the band Pink Martini is featured as part of the current production.
Logan Martin
He is a dancer with the company who participated in the performance by sharing audience memories.
The details
The program features a world premiere ballet by My'Kal Stromile alongside revivals of past company performances. During the show, dancer Logan Martin read a memory from an audience member honoring the company founder, Michael Smuin.
Timeline
The 33rd season officially opened at the Cowell Theater on September 24, 2026.
The production run concludes on October 18, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This season opening follows the pattern of the company's long-term efforts to preserve and evolve the works associated with the legacy of the Smuin Ballet institutional legacy of founder Michael Smuin. The program reflects a broader trend among regional arts organizations to balance archival revivals with new commissions to sustain subscriber interest.
Interested attendees can purchase tickets for the remaining performances through October 18 for prices ranging from $25 to $100. The shows are hosted at the Cowell Theater at Fort Mason, located at 2 Marina Blvd.
The takeaway
The program serves as a reflection on the company's long-term history while introducing modern choreographic voices to the local audience. Supporters of the arts can look forward to the upcoming 20th-anniversary commemorations in 2027.
What happens next
The company is scheduled to recognize the 20th anniversary of the death of founder Michael Smuin in 2027.
Further reading
For more on the local performing arts scene, visit San Francisco Dance.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mission Local.
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