Madison Ballet is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, professional performing arts organization which holds as its mission to promote appreciation and access to ballet by providing training and performing opportunities through professionally produced productions and educational initiatives.Originally founded in 1981 as The Wisconsin Dance Ensemble, the organization’s primary purpose was the production The Nutcracker, an annual community event. In 1999, the organization changed its name to Madison Ballet and embarked on an ambitious plan to become a professional performing arts organization, offering quality arts experiences for youth throughout South Central Wisconsin.