Joffrey Ballet's 'American Icons' Showcases Mid-20th Century Innovation

The Joffrey Ballet's latest mixed-repertory program highlights the company's distinct flavor and its role in shaping 20th century dance.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Joffrey Ballet's 2026 program 'American Icons' features a range of works showcasing mid-20th century innovation and the blending of ballet and modern dance. The evening's four pieces, created less than 20 years apart, demonstrate the experimental spirit of that era as choreographers pushed the boundaries of dance. The program includes works by Joffrey Ballet co-founder Gerald Arpino, company founder Robert Joffrey, and modern dance pioneer Martha Graham, as well as a rarely performed piece by Glen Tetley, one of the Joffrey's original dancers.

Why it matters

The Joffrey Ballet has long been known for its distinct flavor and willingness to challenge the norms of classical ballet. This program highlights the company's roots in the mid-20th century, when it carved out its own space by embracing innovation and collaboration across dance forms. By revisiting these 'American Icons,' the Joffrey is reconnecting with the spirit that defined it in its early years and cementing its place as a leading voice in the evolution of 20th century dance.

The details

The program opens with Gerald Arpino's 'Kettentanz,' a technically demanding work that blends classical and contemporary styles. This is followed by an excerpt from Robert Joffrey's 'Postcards,' a sentimental love letter to turn-of-the-20th-century Paris. The middle piece is Martha Graham's 'Secular Games,' which showcases the Joffrey dancers' ability to adapt to Graham's distinctive modern dance technique. The centerpiece of the evening is Glen Tetley's 'Voluntaries,' a work that exemplifies the kinship between ballet and modern dance. The production features striking set and costume designs, as well as live organ accompaniment.

  • The Joffrey Ballet's 'American Icons' program is running for two weekends at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago.
  • Choreographer Glen Tetley, whose work 'Voluntaries' is featured in the program, would have turned 100 years old this month.

The players

Gerald Arpino

Co-founder of the Joffrey Ballet and choreographer of 'Kettentanz,' one of the works featured in the 'American Icons' program.

Robert Joffrey

Founder of the Joffrey Ballet and choreographer of 'Postcards,' an excerpt of which is included in the 'American Icons' program.

Martha Graham

Pioneering modern dance choreographer whose work 'Secular Games' is part of the 'American Icons' program.

Glen Tetley

One of the original dancers of the Joffrey Ballet, and choreographer of 'Voluntaries,' the centerpiece of the 'American Icons' program.

Suzanne Lopez

Stager of 'Kettentanz' and former Joffrey Ballet dancer who now leads the company's academy.

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What they’re saying

“If you've only recently met the Joffrey Ballet, or are only familiar with the big, beefy, narrative works done the rest of the year, here is a chance to really know them.”

— Lauren Warnecke, Reviewer (Chicago Tribune)

“My guess is Arpino would have rather seen dancers push to the edge and miss than play it safe.”

— Lauren Warnecke, Reviewer (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Joffrey Ballet's 'American Icons' program will continue its run at the Lyric Opera House in Chicago through March 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The Joffrey Ballet's 'American Icons' program showcases the company's pioneering spirit and its central role in the evolution of 20th century dance. By revisiting these landmark works, the Joffrey is reconnecting with its roots and reaffirming its status as a leading voice in the dance world.