Parties

Emmy Rossum and Diane KrugerJared Siskin/Getty Images
On Thursday evening, the New York City Ballet hosted its annual Spring Gala. The star-studded and stylish affair at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater ushered in the opening of the new season with two world premiere performances—including a newly commissioned work by choreographer and principal dancer, Tiler Peck.
The benefit’s theme, Set in Stone—Creation & Preservation, attracted a crowd of 2,500 dance-lovers, philanthropists, politicians, Hollywood stars, and no shortage of dance talent too. With Mick Jagger as the gala’s honorary chair and host committee members Emmy Rossum, Ashley Graham, Hari Nef, and Diane Kruger, the night raised a staggering $3.2 million.
“I come to the New York City Ballet every year and each time it’s so exciting and inspiring to see the dancers and the costumes and hear the music. It takes me to a dreamland,” Kruger, in a flirty and feathery Erdem number, told Vogue. “I studied at the Royal Academy in London to be a ballet dancer as a kid. I vividly remember the joy it gave me, and also the frustrations, the hard work, and the physical preparation that it takes to make it look so effortless. The gracefulness that comes with ballet and seeing the dancers push themselves still gives me goosebumps.” Nef also praised the intense discipline: “I love to see people at the top of their game onstage and in the moment with the music. I find it spectacular and Herculean.”
The program kicked off with Peck’s spellbinding new piece Symphonie Espagnole, set to French composer Édouard Lalo's spirited eponymous score—which, despite its title, is a violin concerto played by guest solo violinist Hilary Hahn alongside the New York City Ballet Orchestra. The production featured a cast of more than 30 dancers dressed in leotards and romantic long flowing tulle tutus in red and purple hues by acclaimed designer Robert Perdziola.
Soon, Jagger and Jimmy Fallon appeared on stage—with the tv host introducing himself to the audience as Timothée Chalamet; the joke that keeps on giving in ballet circles. The duo introduced the evening’s showcase of George Balanchine’s Diamonds—the final act from the three-part Jewels production—which is a tribute to the grandeur of the Russian imperial court. “We are honored to be here. It’s such a special night because this is the kick off to the 60th anniversary of Balanchine’s Diamonds,” Jagger said. “I’m so happy to support this company, which does such an amazing job of nurturing classics and promoting new works.”
Set to Symphony No. 3 by Tchaikovsky, a parade of dancers moved gracefully in regal symmetry. True to its title, pristine white tutus and bodices came adorned with sparkling crystals, while tiaras abounded. An intimate pas de deux between the ballerina and her cavalier captivated the crowd, and at its end, a throng of dancers joined the principal couple for an energetic polonaise, prompting a standing ovation from the audience.
As the curtain drew to a close, NYCB principal dancers changed into their best black-tie ensembles and joined gala-goers in the theater’s promenade for supper. Overseen by event design firm Cait & Jules, 65 giant inflatable orbs had been installed, suspended from the ceiling alongside black string fringe. Tables were laden with vibrant ranunculus, deep burgundy anthuriums, and ivory colored orchids that tied in with the colors of the ballet costumes. Further nodding to Set in Stone theme, the flower centerpieces came adorned with mini disco balls and crystal quartz gemstones. A dinner of roasted beet salad, braised short ribs, and a velvety caramel popcorn cheesecake for dessert was a huge hit amongst the 850 seated guests.
“What a night,” Fallon told Vogue. “It’s been years since I’ve been here. I do a show down the street and yet I don’t get to do half the things most people can do in New York City. But I got to see a little bit backstage and all the work that goes into the dancing, and I was blown away. Everything has been mesmerizing. This might be an annual event for me. I’ve got to bring my daughters here and come back.”
By 11 p.m., Jagger was among the first attendees to hit the dance floor, as The Rolling Stones frontman grooved with his choreographer fiancée Melanie Hamrick; a former ballerina herself.
“Ballet is a remarkably special thing to enjoy and to see live. There’s nothing like it,” Rossum concluded.

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Ashley Graham and Chloe Flower

Photo: Nina Westervelt
Mick Jagger, Jimmy Fallon

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Fran Drescher and Hari Nef

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Sai De Silva and London Scout de Silva

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Lloyd Dickenson and Afiya Bennett

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Indiana Woodward

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Gilbert Bolden III, Roman Mejia, Tiler Peck, Maria-Cristina Anzola

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Joseph Gordon

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Emmy Rossum and Diane Kruger

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John Skipper and Carmen Busquets

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Chun Wai Chan

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 07: (L-R) Donya Bommer, Brynn Putnam, Jimmy Fallon and guest attend New York City Ballet 2026 Spring Gala at Lincoln Center on May 07, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jared Siskin/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

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Jill Kargman

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Steven Beltrani and Tracy Anderson

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Mary Leest and Inga Rubenshtain

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Fe Fendi

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Mick Jagger, Melanie Hamrick and Justin Peck

























