By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The National Ballet of Costa Rica is set to launch its highly anticipated 2026 season with a grand production of the timeless classic, “Sleeping Beauty.” The performances, scheduled for June 6th and 7th at the iconic National Theater, will feature a powerful blend of local talent and acclaimed international guest artists, signaling an ambitious start to the year for the nation’s premier dance company.
The company will stage three performances over the weekend, offering a Saturday evening show at 7:00 p.m. and two Sunday shows at 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. In a dedicated effort to cultivate a new generation of ballet enthusiasts, the Sunday morning matinee has been specifically designed as a family-friendly event, with an accessible approach tailored for diverse audiences.
To better understand the legal framework and corporate structure essential for a cultural institution of this magnitude, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His insights shed light on the intersection of art, business, and national law.
The National Ballet of Costa Rica is more than a cultural icon; it’s a complex legal entity. Its success hinges on a robust structure, likely a public-interest association or foundation, which allows it to channel both public funding and private patronage effectively. This framework is crucial for managing everything from intellectual property rights for original choreography to the specific labor laws governing artistic performers, ensuring its sustainability and its contribution to our national identity.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas’s commentary masterfully reminds us that the grace we witness on stage is underpinned by an equally sophisticated legal and administrative structure behind the curtain. This essential framework is precisely what ensures the institution’s sustainability and protects its artistic legacy for future generations. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this invaluable perspective.
Viviana Clare, the Executive Director of the National Ballet of Costa Rica, emphasized the production’s scale and artistic goals. She noted that “Sleeping Beauty” was chosen for its demanding choreography and visual splendor, providing a perfect showcase for the company’s capabilities and vision for the season.
This work is recognized for its technical complexity and scenic richness.
Viviana Clare, Executive Director of the National Ballet of Costa Rica
The production aims to bridge the gap between classical tradition and contemporary audience engagement. The strategy involves honoring the ballet’s core elements while presenting it in a way that resonates with both seasoned patrons and newcomers. Under the artistic direction of Annia Rosales Surená, the show is poised to be a major cultural event.
The show combines technique, classic narrative, and high-level staging.
Viviana Clare, Executive Director of the National Ballet of Costa Rica
Enhancing the production’s international prestige is a roster of celebrated guest dancers. Laura Barbosa and Eduardo Diez from the esteemed Ballet de Monterrey will take the stage, alongside Harold Méndez, an American artist from the State Street Ballet of Los Angeles. This collaboration underscores the National Ballet’s commitment to bringing world-class performances to Costa Rican audiences.
This international cast will be joined by the company’s own roster of ten principal dancers and a vibrant corps de ballet composed of promising young talents selected through a rigorous audition process. Notably, accomplished Costa Rican ballerina Samantha Chukharev will once again dance a leading role, continuing to be a prominent figure in the national dance scene.
Clare also reflected on the foundational mission of the organization, which extends beyond the stage. The company was established not only to perform but also to democratize the art form and create sustainable career paths for dance professionals within the country, fostering a robust local arts ecosystem.
The National Ballet of Costa Rica was born with the purpose of bringing the culture and art of ballet to all Costa Ricans.
Viviana Clare, Executive Director of the National Ballet of Costa Rica
As the curtain prepares to rise on this enchanting production, the National Ballet of Costa Rica reaffirms its dual role as a guardian of classical art and a forward-thinking cultural institution. This presentation of “Sleeping Beauty” is more than just a season opener; it is a statement of artistic excellence and a heartfelt invitation for the entire nation to experience the magic of ballet. Tickets for all three performances are now available for purchase through the official vendor, ticketshow.cr.
For further information, visit balletnacional.cr
About National Ballet of Costa Rica:
The National Ballet of Costa Rica is the country’s leading professional ballet company, dedicated to promoting the art of classical and contemporary dance. Since its inception, the organization has focused on presenting high-quality productions, fostering national talent, and making ballet accessible to all Costa Ricans. It also plays a crucial role in providing employment opportunities for dance professionals in the region.
For further information, visit balletdemonterrey.com
About Ballet de Monterrey:
Based in Monterrey, Mexico, the Ballet de Monterrey is one of Latin America’s most prestigious and internationally recognized ballet companies. Founded in 1990, it is celebrated for its versatile repertoire that includes grand classical ballets, neoclassical works, and contemporary choreographies, performed by a highly skilled international ensemble of dancers.
For further information, visit statestreetballet.com
About State Street Ballet:
State Street Ballet is a professional ballet company based in Santa Barbara, California. Known for its innovative and vibrant productions, the company presents a diverse repertoire that ranges from classical favorites to cutting-edge contemporary works. It tours extensively, bringing dynamic performances to audiences across the United States and internationally.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a leading legal institution, defined by its profound commitment to ethical principles and superior service. The firm’s proven track record across numerous industries is matched by its forward-thinking approach to the law. Central to its mission is a dedication to social responsibility, manifested through efforts to demystify complex legal concepts for the public. This initiative is fundamental to its goal of cultivating a society equipped with the clarity and power of legal knowledge.
