Search results for: YAGP

The future of ballet depends on a pool of talent constantly flowing into the profession from all over the world. I got to see some of that pool—ocean, really—as a judge at Youth America Grand Prix in Tokyo last week. So, with the tunes of ballet variations from The Sleeping Beauty, Esmeralda, and The Talisman […]

Tonight, everything culminates for 350 international student finalists as they compete for the top awards of the Youth America Grand Prix. (Dancers who have been in their shoes? Sarah Lane, Beckanne Sisk, Whitney Jensen, and Lauren Lovette—just to name a few.) In addition to winning medals and scholarships, some students will earn a coveted spotlight […]

A new generation of competition-kids-turned-ballet-dancers is making its mark. Madison Brown and Brady Farrar, both dancers with American Ballet Theatre Studio Company, have roots in not only dance competitions but competitive TV shows:

The Cincinnati Ballet soloist exudes a quiet confidence and curiosity, coupled with striking technique. It’s no surprise that just into her second season, the Cuban dancer had nabbed a promotion and already danced her first full-length title role, in Septime Webre’s Alice (in Wonderland).

There’s flying through the ranks, and then there’s American Ballet Theatre’s SunMi Park, who skyrocketed from apprentice to soloist all within the span of a year.

Ranee Ramaswamy, Youth America Grand Prix artistic director Larissa Saveliev and choreographer Marc Kimelman offer tips to ensure your eyes are conveying exactly what you want them to say.

During the early days of the pandemic, the audition process was turned on its head. Traditional, in-person open calls were too much of a risk, so, instead, directors relied heavily on video submissions. Even as in-person auditions make a comeback, they don’t quite look the same as they once did.

How can you be sure your competition costume is hitting its mark? We asked three judges what they want—and don’t want—to see when it comes to dancers’ onstage ensembles.