2027 Ballet Bouquet

Misako Ballet Company presents Ballet Bouquet: A Winter Celebration of Dance on Sunday, 2:00 pm at the Jim Rouse Theatre in Columbia, Maryland. This enchanting spring dance performance weaves together classical elegance, contemporary expression, and the beauty of Japanese-inspired artistry. Misako Ballet Company (MBC), a professional, non-profit dance company based in Columbia, MD, has been a vital part of the Howard County arts community for more than seventeen years. Its mission is to create classical ballet and Japanese-themed performances that inspire, uplift, and bring joy to the community. Under the artistic direction of Misako Aoki, the company continues to provide local, regional, and international dance artists with opportunities to showcase their artistry while sharing meaningful glimpses of her Japanese roots and culture. This season, the Professional and Student Companies are excited to welcome Fumihito Shimizu from Japan who is a Choreographer and performer. He is staging his dance piece called Swirls of Comfort / 原郷の風 - Inspired by Japanese poetry, nature, and memory, this work blends contemporary dance, ballet, and improvisation through the Japanese sense of “ma”—meaningful space and time. Feathers Dance Company from New York City and Sopranos Eriko Tokura as special guests. Together, the companies will perform contemporary repertory by renowned Japanese dancer and choreographer Mr. Fumihito Shimizu, alongside Misako Aoki’s signature style - classical ballet with a Japanese twist. A highlight of the performance is Misako’s newest ballet, "Kintaro/金太郎" inspired by a beloved Japanese folktale and brought to life through expressive movement, evocative imagery, and storytelling. Ballet Bouquet features a thoughtfully curated arrangement of works - like a refined bouquet of dance - ranging from classical to contemporary, creating a heartwarming celebration of dance and an ideal late spring performance for families, dance lovers, and the whole community.