Cory Stearns to Retire from American Ballet Theatre After Celebrated Career

Cory Stearns, a principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre (ABT) since 2011, will conclude his illustrious career following performances of Onegin during the 2026 Summer season. His final performance is scheduled for Saturday, June 27, following an opening night performance on Tuesday, June 23.

A Journey from Long Island to the World Stage

Born on Long Island, New York, on October 16, 1985, Stearns began his dance training at the age of three, encouraged by his mother, a former Graham technique student [1]. He formally began ballet training at age five at the Seiskaya Ballet in St. James, New York, under Mme. Valia Seiskaya, formerly of the National Opera of Greece [1].

Early Achievements and Royal Ballet School

Stearns’ talent quickly became apparent, earning him a full scholarship to Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s summer intensive at age thirteen [1]. At fifteen, he received another full scholarship, this time to the Royal Ballet School in London after competing at the Youth America Grand Prix [1]. While in London, he expanded his artistic reach beyond the ballet stage, appearing as Kylie Minogue’s dance partner in her 2004 music video for “Chocolate” [1].

American Ballet Theatre Career

Upon graduating from The Royal Ballet School in 2004, Stearns returned to New York and joined the Studio Company of American Ballet Theatre [1]. His rise through the ranks was swift: he became an apprentice in 2005, joined the corps de ballet in 2006, was appointed a Soloist in 2009 and achieved the rank of Principal Dancer in 2011 [1].

Notable Roles and Recognition

Throughout his career with ABT, Stearns has captivated audiences with his performances in a diverse repertoire, including roles such as Conrad in Le Corsaire, Solor in La Bayadère, Oberon in The Dream, and the Prince in Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker [1], [1]. He is also recognized as a high fashion model [1].

Recent Updates and Industry Moves

Stearns’ retirement is part of a broader period of transition within the dance world. Ryan Tomash has recently been promoted to principal at New York City Ballet [3], while Caleb Teicher has been named artist curator in residence at Works & Process, and Aria Roach has joined the organization as an associate producer [3]. Monica Steffey has been promoted to director of programming and operations at Dance/NYC [3].