Founded in 2015, Central Illinois Ballet (CIB) is a professional ballet company that operates with the support of Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. CIB emerged from the Academy, which was established in 2012 in the historic Cornerstone building in downtown Peoria. The Academy initially began with four instructors and six students, and expanded rapidly, adding leadership with an Artistic Director and Academy Director to guide its mission and growth.

CIB's outreach efforts quickly expanded, bringing dance, music, and theatre into the community through educational programs at nursing homes, schools, libraries, and Veterans' posts. In 2012, the Academy presented its first main stage production, Alice in Wonderland, a story ballet designed for children and families. Recognizing the need for a professional dance company to serve the Central Illinois community, the professional company was officially formed in 2015, separating from the Academy to operate as Central Illinois Ballet.

The company's professional ensemble quickly garnered attention, staging its first production of The Nutcracker at the Orpheum Theater in Galesburg, IL. Following the success of this production and growing community demand, CIB continued to build its presence as a vital cultural institution, offering high-quality ballet performances and educational opportunities throughout the region.

Under the current leadership of Artistic Director Jessie Williams and Associate Artistic Director Dyson Ramey, CIB continues its commitment to excellence in the arts, providing transformative experiences for both its audiences and dancers. With a focus on professional growth, community engagement, and artistic innovation, Central Illinois Ballet is dedicated to enhancing the cultural landscape of Central Illinois through dance.