A Season Finale Like No Other: The World Premiere of Beauty and the Beast To close Carolina Ballets 28th season, we are pleased to announce the world premiere of Beauty and the Beast, a new full-length ballet by Artistic Director/CEO Zalman Raffael. This original production will be accompanied by live orchestra. Inspired by the enduring French fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast casts a timeless story in a new artistic light one that speaks to the transformative power of compassion, courage, and the ability to see beyond appearances. Through imaginative choreography and a richly drawn theatrical world, audiences will be invited into a landscape of mystery, enchantment, and emotional depth. This production marks a meaningful conclusion to our 28th season a celebration of artistry, storytelling, and the continued evolution of ballet as a living, expressive form.