Boston Ballet

Although the history of the Boston Ballet, which was founded in 1963, can’t compare to such old-world troupes as the Kirov or Paris Opera Ballet, the company has been ably led by artistic director Mikko Nissinen. Appointed in 2001, Nissinen has dedicated himself to presenting contemporary, innovative choreography as well as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, the latter of which it performs for a month every year.