Miami City Ballet Will Debut Opus Jazz Redesign
The American Rhythms program brings 16 dancers to the stage on October 16 with new streetwear-inspired costumes.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Dance
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Miami City Ballet will debut its refreshed production of Jerome Robbins's 1958 masterpiece, Opus Jazz, on October 16. The performance features the first authorized redesign of the original costumes, created by Zac Posen for GapStudio.
Why it matters
The company is updating this classic repertory work to resonate with modern audiences by blending traditional ballet movements with contemporary streetwear aesthetics. Directors aim to honor the company legacy while introducing fresh creative voices to the stage.
The production includes 16 dancers executing a piece originally created in 1958. While the original runtime is 45 minutes, the current production is part of an upcoming program featuring a visual campaign film.
The players
Miami City Ballet
The professional ballet company producing the upcoming American Rhythms program.
Jerome Robbins
The choreographer who originally created Opus Jazz in 1958.
Zac Posen
The costume designer who created the new streetwear-inspired outfits for the production.
Ezra Hurwitz
The director of the visual campaign film associated with the production.
The details
The updated costumes include Infinity Stretch denim, hoodies, and T-shirts, with leotard construction concealed within the streetwear silhouettes. Designers utilized stretchable fabrics to allow for athletic ballet movements. Miami City Ballet will perform the work as part of its American Rhythms program.
Timeline
1958: The original production premiered at the Festival of Two Worlds.
October 16, 2026: Miami City Ballet performs the new production.
Beyond the 305
The performance follows the 1958 premiere of Opus Jazz at the Festival of Two Worlds in Italy. This production updates that established standard by integrating modern streetwear, departing from the classic aesthetic through the first authorized costume revision.
Local ballet fans can expect to see the new costumes during the October 16 performance. This production offers residents a chance to see how the company blends traditional artistry with contemporary fashion.
The takeaway
This production reimagines a mid-century classic for a new generation of local theatergoers. Keep an eye on the American Rhythms program schedule to see how the company continues to evolve its repertoire.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest local dance performances in the Miami Dance section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by British Vogue.
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