Competition Program

Compete Opportunity

Minnesota Ballet School is dedicated to training and educating students with the goal of preparing them for professional ballet careers. While our primary focus is on comprehensive education and performance, we also offer an optional side competition program. This program is not the main focus but serves as an enrichment opportunity for our most motivated dancers.
This program allows students to showcase their skills and represent Minnesota Ballet School at its best at local and regional competitions, including Youth America Grand Prix, Youth International Ballet Competition (ADC), Masquerade, Bravo, Encore, and more.

Students in levels 2 and up who are interested in participating in competitions should contact the Minnesota Ballet School office for more information.

Our Competition Mindset

We believe that the competition is a great opportunity for students to learn different variations, improve their technique, perform on stage and make new friends in the ballet community! We are proud of all our participants, even more for the support and camaraderie built throughout the competition than for the awards received.

We ask our families to remember that competition is subjective and that ballet as an art form may not always be judged in the same way by different audiences, judges, spectators or directors. Students who compete do so by focusing on the process of preparing for the given opportunity to perform, and with an eye to learning, performing in a unique and competitive environment.

Competition Team

Competition Team Description

Our Competition Team is designed for dedicated dancers aged 8–18 who aspire to elevate their technical and artistic training beyond standard ballet classes. Unlike typical competition studios that emphasize commercial dance styles, our program is rooted in classical ballet excellence, offering students a path toward pre-professional development.

Program Highlights

Weekly Group Training:
Group rehearsals are held Wednesday from 6:30–8:30 PM and include ballet technique and classical/contemporary repertoire.
(This group class is included in the registration fee.)
Optional Private Coaching:
Dancers interested in preparing solos, duets, or small ensembles for competition can schedule private coaching separately (not included in the program fee).
Elite Competitions:
Our team participates in prestigious events like Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), offering students exposure to top ballet professionals and institutions.
Professional Mentorship:
Students train with experienced faculty who are former professional dancers and passionate mentors.

Why It Matters for College Applications

Demonstrated Commitment:
Ongoing participation in a rigorous ballet program highlights a dancer’s discipline, time management, and resilience—traits that stand out to college admissions boards.
Arts Supplements:
Competitive dance achievements can be submitted as part of college arts portfolios, showcasing talent and dedication.
Scholarship Opportunities:
Success at major competitions may lead to scholarship offers or invitations to prestigious intensives and college dance programs.

Enrollment Details

Current MBS Students: Placement by faculty invitation or audition.
External Dancers: Dancers from other studios may join through audition.

Group Class Only: Wednesday 6:30–8:30 PM
Solos/Duets/Small Groups: Available through additional private coaching

Train with purpose. Perform with excellence.
Join the Minnesota Ballet School Competition Team and take the next step in your dance journey.

Program Registration

MBS Competition Team Workshop & Audition

August 18–20, 2025 | 9:00–11:00 AM (Audition Day: 9:00–10:00 AM)

Dancers interested in joining the Minnesota Ballet School Competition Team for the 2025–2026 season are required to attend this three-day program, which includes a two-day workshop followed by an audition.

The workshop is designed to prepare dancers for the upcoming competition season with intensive classes in both classical ballet and contemporary technique. Dancers will work on technique, flexibility, conditioning, performance quality, and style versatility.

The final day will consist of an audition to assess readiness for competitions such as YAGP, ADC IBC, and regional events.

Open to students in Ballet 2 and above.
Placement and selection will be based on participation and audition performance.

YAGP 2024-25

About

The Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) is one of the most prestigious and renowned international ballet competitions. It provides young dancers with a platform to showcase their talent, receive valuable feedback from esteemed professionals, and gain exposure to potential opportunities in the world of ballet.

Here are some key features and aspects of the YAGP competition:

Divisions: YAGP offers several divisions based on age and level, ranging from Pre-Competitive to Senior, allowing dancers to compete within their respective age groups and technical capabilities.

Competition Rounds: The competition is divided into several rounds, including the preliminary, semi-final, and final rounds. Dancers perform variations from classical ballet repertoire or contemporary works, which are adjudicated by a panel of esteemed judges.

Scholarships and Opportunities: YAGP offers a range of scholarships, awards, and performance opportunities for participants. These include scholarships to prestigious ballet schools and summer programs, invitations to perform in YAGP Gala events, and potential job offers from professional ballet companies.

Master Classes and Workshops: Alongside the competition, YAGP organizes master classes and workshops conducted by renowned ballet instructors, choreographers, and artistic directors. These classes provide valuable learning experiences and exposure to different teaching styles and techniques.

The culmination of the YAGP competition is the International Finals held annually in Tampa. This grand event brings together the top-scoring participants from the semi-final rounds to compete for the title of "Grand Prix" and other prestigious awards.

YAGP Season 2024/25

Registration for the YAGP competition will open on July 1st!

Be aware that YAGP often have limited spots avilable and can fill up quickly due to their popularity. Therefore, it is recommended to register as early as possible in order to secure your place in the competition. Participation in the YAGP competition is for participants aged 9 and over. To learn more about participation, please contact by email minnesotaballetschool@gmail.com or phone (612) 501-9208.

Private YAGP Lessons

Our preparation for YAGP starts August 19. Elevate your skills with private lessons and gear up for outstanding performances and competitions. Secure your spot now for this intensive training!