Ballet Excel Ohio Marks 50 Years with New Aladdin Production and Expanded Youth Outreach

CUYAHOGA FALLS, OH — Ballet Excel Ohio, one of the nation's pioneering youth ballet companies, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a new production of Aladdin, choreographed by Erich Yetter. The ballet will be staged at Nan Klinger Excellence in Dance from August 4 to 16 and will be performed at the Akron Civic Theatre on March 14 and 15, 2026.

Founded in 1975 by Nan Klinger, Ballet Excel Ohio (BXO) has grown into a nationally recognized pre-professional dance company under the artistic direction of her daughter, Mia Klinger. The company is known for its original storybook ballets performed by dancers aged 8 to 18.

In addition to its performances, BXO runs the Reach Out And Dance® (ROAD®) program, established in 1998 by Lori Klinger. ROAD® brings dance education to underserved schools in Northeast Ohio, providing in-school residencies and community performances. The program has impacted over 15,000 students, offering scholarships for continued dance training. Artistic Director Mia Klinger emphasized the program's significance, stating, “What we try to do is we bring in kids that are ignited about dance and maybe don't have the opportunity to either pay for dance or even see dance.”

BXO also provides free tickets to its annual performances at the Akron Civic Theatre through partnerships with over 30 community organizations, ensuring access to the arts for families who might otherwise be unable to attend.

The upcoming Aladdin production represents a significant milestone in BXO's history, combining artistic achievement with a continued commitment to community engagement.

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