Changing Lives Through Dance
Founded in 1986 and located in the heart of Harvard Square, Cambridge, José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s company and school have forged a new model for a ballet organization through innovative programming, artistic excellence, and extensive community outreach.
COMPANY
Under the leadership of its Founder and Artistic Director José Mateo, the company has presented original ballet works and new interpretations of classical ballets, including The Nutcracker.
SCHOOL
From its inception over 35 years ago, JMBT’s School has boldly challenged a centuries-old tradition of exclusion and elitism to create a more inclusive, just and humanistic approach to expert ballet training.
COMMUNITY
JMBT is committed to making ballet an accessible art form. Dance for World Community is a partner-based initiative that amplifies the connective power of dance to unity and strengthen our local communities.
THE NUTCRACKER
Join us for our 38th season of José Mateo’s The Nutcracker!
December 5-20, 2026 | The Strand Theatre, Dorchester, MA
Young Dancers Program
José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s Young Dancers Program is based on the philosophy that every student has the right to a quality ballet education.
Register now for the 2026-27 school year! Classes for ages 3-18.
SUPPORT DANCE
Generous support from you over our 40-year history has enabled us to strengthening our community through quality ballet training, creating new ballets of excellence, and accessible outreach programs.
FROM THE BLOG
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Alumni Feature: Heather Seabury Brown
READ MORE: Alumni Feature: Heather Seabury BrownLearn about Heather Seabury Brown! A former member of the JMBT company, Heather is currently a dance and yoga instructor based in MA.
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Alumni Feature: Kati Hanlon Mayo
READ MORE: Alumni Feature: Kati Hanlon MayoLearn about Kati Hanlon Mayo! A former member of the JMBT company, Kati Hanlon Mayo currently serves as the Associate Director of the Charlotte Ballet Academy.
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Alumni Feature: Victoria Manning
READ MORE: Alumni Feature: Victoria ManningLearn about Victoria Manning! An alumni of JMBT’s Young Dancers Program, Victoria currently lives in Los Angeles and is a professional dancer with American Contemporary Ballet where she performs in over 70 shows a season.