The Mission of the Youth Theater

With the Youth Theater, the Academy of Classical Ballet wants to help young dancers in the region realize their dream and their full potential by offering a pre-professional training program that consists of weekly classes, Master classes, and finally continuous assessments and feedback. Youth also benefit from intensive work with various choreographers and several performance opportunities throughout the year.

The Academy's program has been designed to meet the needs of dedicated and talented young people in the region who have developed their skills and wish to submit to a busy course schedule.

It is by showcasing the passion of our young people, their talent and their joy that we hope to develop a public interest in classical dance in our region, an art form worthy of all praise.

Dancers from the Youth Theater participated in the music video for MioKal's song "Here I Stand"

Goals of the Company

  • Provide the region’s gifted dancers a professional level training and performance vehicle.
  • Showcase the outstanding ballet talent in our region to increase participation in classical ballet.
  • Ignite community interest in the performing arts.
  • Strengthen the performing arts community through joint performances with other arts groups.
  • Foster the understanding of ballet as an art form that enhances human dignity, personal development, and also physical and mental skills.

Code of conduct

Respect

The gift and opportunity to dance; respect each other and yourself. Be on time and ready to work (hair up in a bun or a ponytail, bodysuit and tights, shoes, jewelry and watches off…) Talking will not be allowed during rehearsal or class time. Chitchat before or after class: talking in class diminishes results of your work by 45%. Chewing gum is absolutely forbidden in any dance classes.

Teamwork

We are only as strong as our weakest link; don’t let anyone outwork you on any given day; be kind, compassionate and upfront with your team; together we are stronger. Communication and compassion are key. Listen to what others are telling you and dare to speak your mind (always in a constructive fashion).

Passion

Be passionate about dance, about the work that you do; life is too short to live it without passion.

Preparation

Much preparation goes into shows and competitions, and each member of our team has a role to play each step of the way. Prepare yourselves for class, prepare your bodies for the performances, prepare your classes, and prepare your pieces (choreographies.) Know the repertoire inside and out, no exceptions.

Commitment & dedication

to being the best that you can be; to the team; to the art and to your work. If you need to miss a class or a rehearsal, please leave us a message to indicate the reason for your absence by calling, sending an email to plieballet@gmail.com, or by notifying your teacher. Failure to live up to these expectations may result in your being asked to step down from your position as a member of the Youth Theatre and/or the competition.

Positivity

Choose your attitude. Have energy and excitement for what you do, and the results will be tenfold. Everything in life is as good (or as bad) as you make it. The Academy is a safe haven; a positive environment where children have positive role models who influence them and exemplify discipline as well as enjoyment and joy.

Standard of excellence

We always aim to be the best of the best. We are the best that we can possibly be; we go above and beyond the ordinary.

Fairness

Be fair to each other. The directors will always choose roles based on ability AND effort; we aim to be as fair as possible in art where there are soloists and corps de ballet roles. We will be fair in our expectations of you; however, we will also be demanding in order to get you to achieve your full potential.