The chances of being selected might be slim, but the reward for the winners will assuredly affect their future. Ballet Academy East, one of the most prestigious and rigorous ballet schools in New York City, is holding auditions for its Pre-Professional Division, August 26 and September 16.
Headed by Darla Hoover, the school’s artistic director, and taught by a faculty that is a virtual Who’s Who of ballet — Charles Askegard, Wendy Whelan, Cheryl Yeager, Peter Frame, Gonzalo Garcia—the school’s Pre-Professional Division is structured to prepare students, ages seven to 18, for a career in ballet. BAE’s alumni are currently performing in New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Ballet Memphis, Sarasota Ballet, Washington Ballet, among others.
“In addition to the physical attributes required of a ballet dancer, we look for students with a passion for dance and the ability to work hard,” said Julia Dubno, the school’s founder and director.
Auditions for the Pre-Professional Division are available both in person and via video for international students. Special financial provisions are made for male students. Details and scholarship information can be located at www.baenyc.com
Founded in 1979, BAE opened as a single studio in a brownstone. It now is comprised of five spacious, sunlit studios for its 200 pre-professional ballet students, as well as members of the school’s Young Dancer Division and Open Adult classes. Ballet Academy East is located at 1651 Third Avenue, New York City. The phone number is 212-410-9140.