Kirkland choreographed (with Chernov and ABT artistic director Kevin McKenzie) a new production of Tchaikovsky's "The Sleeping Beauty", in which, after a more than 20 years absence from the stage, she danced the role of "Carabosse, the Wicked Fairy". In 2010, Kirkland and Chernov established the Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet (GKACB), where they serve as co-Artistic Directors. The Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet is now accompanied by the Gelsey Kirkland Ballet company. The ballet company presents classical ballets in New York City.