In the past, most ballet companies were faithful guardians of a heritage that extended back to Louis XIV, the dance-obsessed king of France. The mandate for a successful ballet company today is much broader, including classic works like Swan Lake, but crossover and fusion choreography as well. Artistic Director Peter Boal is shepherding PNB through these 21st century innovations with style. The upcoming season stretches from neo-classical formality to contemporary casual—all danced with clarity and respect.

First runner-up: Velocity

Second runner-up: Spectrum Dance Theatre

Honorable mention: Whim W’Him, Seattle Irish Dance Company

Read about the rest of the Best of Seattle Reader Poll winners here. If you didn’t get a chance to vote this go-round, make sure your voice is heard next year. Email us at bestofseattle@seattleweekly.com and we will let you know when nominations open for BoS 2017.