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Who It’s For
For dancers ages 5–18+, with separate tracks by age and level. Open to both current MBS students and external dancers.
What’s Offered
- Classical and contemporary group choreography
- Weekly rehearsals
- Optional solo/duet/trio opportunities (by faculty recommendation)
- Participation in regional and national competitions like YAGP, ADC IBC, and more
Benefits
- Build performance confidence
- Train with experienced faculty and guest artists
- Gain exposure to elite ballet events
- Improve technique, style, and stage artistry
Pre-Competition Team (Ages 5–8)
A Fun and Supportive Introduction to Ballet Competitions
The Pre-Competition Team is designed for young dancers who are ready to explore the world of ballet competitions in a nurturing, age-appropriate environment. This program builds confidence, performance skills, and teamwork, with no prior experience required.
Program Details:
- Open to dancers ages 5–8
- Weekly rehearsals begin September 10
- Day & Time: Wednesday, 5:30–6:15 PM (45 minutes)
- Location: Minnesota Ballet School, Eden Prairie
- All dancers participate in a group routine
- Solo opportunities may be offered based on readiness and faculty recommendation
This program is ideal for first-time competitors and helps dancers develop stage presence in a supportive group setting. No prior competition experience is necessary. All dancers placed in the program will participate in a group routine. Solo or small group opportunities may be offered based on faculty assessment during the season.
Parent Information Meeting:
Date: Monday, September 8
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Minnesota Ballet School Studio, Eden Prairie Meet the team directors, learn about competition options and expectations, and find out how to support your dancer throughout the season.
Enrollment & Auditions
Current MBS Students: Placement by audition or faculty recommendation.
External Dancers: Audition required for entry into the program.
Junior & Senior Teams (Ages 9–18+)
The Minnesota Ballet School Competition Program is designed for passionate, focused dancers who are ready to grow as artists and performers through elite competition experiences. This program provides a structured and supportive environment with training in both classical and contemporary ballet repertoire.
Dancers will develop discipline, artistry, and confidence while preparing for regional and national competitions, including Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP).
Program Overview:
- Weekly Rehearsals Begin: September 10
- Day & Time: Wednesdays, 6:30–8:30 PM
– 1 hour Classical Ballet & Group Choreography
– 1 hour Contemporary Ballet & Group Choreography - Location: Minnesota Ballet School, Eden Prairie
Who Can Join:
Dancers ages 9–18+ are welcome.
No prior competition experience is required.
All dancers participate in a group routine.
Solo, duet, or trio opportunities may be offered based on readiness and faculty recommendation (MBS students only).
Parent Information Meeting
Date: Wednesday, July 30
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Minnesota Ballet School Studio, Eden Prairie
Meet the artistic directors, learn about competition opportunities, and review program expectations for the 2025/26 season.
Enrollment & Auditions
Current MBS Students: Placement by audition or faculty recommendation.
External Dancers: Audition required for entry into the program.
2025–2026 Competition Team Workshop & Audition
August 18–20, 2025
Minnesota Ballet School | Eden Prairie, MN
Join us this August for our annual Competition Team Workshop & Audition, designed to prepare and evaluate dancers interested in joining the Minnesota Ballet School Competition Team for the 2025–2026 season.
For Ages 5–8: Pre-Competition Team
Two-Day Workshop + Evaluation
August 18–19 | 3:00–4:00 PM
This age-appropriate workshop introduces young dancers to the world of ballet competitions through group movement, musicality, and performance skills. On the second day, dancers will be evaluated for participation in our Pre-Competition Team. No prior experience is required.
For Ages 9–18+: Junior & Senior Teams
Two-Day Workshop + Audition
August 18–19 | 2:00–4:00 PM
Audition Day: August 20 | 2:00–3:00 PM
Dancers will train in classical ballet and contemporary technique to build performance readiness and versatility. The final day includes a formal audition to determine placement for solos, group routines, and team eligibility for major competitions such as YAGP, UBC, and ADC IBC.
Open to all dancers Ballet Level 2 and above. No previous competition experience required.
Who Can Attend
- Dancers ages 5–18+
- Open to all dancers—MBS and non-MBS students
- No prior competition experience needed
Secure your spot for the 2025–2026 Competition Team!
Success Stories
From Stage to Success
Our Competition Program has proudly nurtured the talent and dedication of students who have gone on to achieve national recognition and join prestigious professional programs and companies.
These success stories reflect not only individual talent but the high level of training, mentorship, and opportunities offered through our Competition
Our Competition Program has proudly nurtured the talent and dedication of students who have gone on to achieve national recognition and join prestigious professional programs and companies.
These success stories reflect not only individual talent but the high level of training, mentorship, and opportunities offered through our Competition Program. With expert coaching, guest artist workshops, and access to premier ballet competitions like Youth America Grand Prix, we prepare each dancer for their personal best — whether their path leads to the stage, conservatory, or beyond.
These success stories reflect not only individual talent but the high level of training, mentorship, and opportunities offered through our Competition Program. With expert coaching, guest artist workshops, and access to premier ballet competitions like Youth America Grand Prix, we prepare each dancer for their personal best — whether their path leads to the stage, conservatory, or beyond.
Lucia Erickson
YAGP Top 12 finalist who went on to become a professional dancer and Soloist with Philadelphia Ballet, now celebrating her 7th season with the company.
Alena Harrison
Alena Harrison
2nd Place at YAGP, currently dancing as an Apprentice with Ballet Tucson, continuing her development in a professional setting.
Matilda Bak
Catherine Le Grand
Alena Harrison
A Top 12 YAGP finalist and Top 6 Duet performer (with Abby Hoyt); now training in the Richmond Ballet Trainee Program, where she continues refining her technique and artistry.
Abby Hoyt
Catherine Le Grand
Catherine Le Grand
Known for her musicality and artistry, Abby was recognized in the Top 6 Duet at YAGP (with Matilda Bak), and brought exceptional stage presence and expression to every performance. She is now continuing her education while remaining connected to ballet through university classes.
Catherine Le Grand
Catherine Le Grand
Catherine Le Grand
A Top 24 finalist at YAGP, Catherine was recognized for her strong technique and dedication, earning a scholarship offer to Oklahoma City Ballet’s Summer Intensive during her time in the program.
Carolina Miller
Carolina Miller
Carolina Miller
Recognized for both her classical and contemporary versatility, Carolina placed Top 12 in both categories at YAGP and is one of our rising talents.; awarded a scholarship to Oklahoma City Ballet’s Summer Intensive.
Guest Artists
Our dancers work with leading professionals through masterclasses and workshops throughout the year.
Featured Guest Artists
Alexey Moskalenko
Natalia Bashkatova
Natalia Bashkatova
YAGP Associate Artistic Director, Master Teacher & Judge
Graduated from the Moscow Bolshoi Ballet Academy, former Bolshoi Ballet principal, and relocated to the U.S. in 1992. He has been central to YAGP since its founding—teaching, directing, and guiding over 10,000 students annually across 26 U.S. cities and 13 countries
Natalia Bashkatova
Natalia Bashkatova
Natalia Bashkatova
YAGP Judge & Assistant Artistic Director
Trained at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy; former Principal Dancer at Moscow Bolshoi Ballet (1989–1994) and later with New York City Ballet and Cirque du Soleil. A longtime YAGP judge and master teacher, she currently serves as Assistant Artistic Director
Misha Tchoupakov
Natalia Bashkatova
Misha Tchoupakov
YAGP Rehearsal Director, Judge & Master Teacher; Associate Professor, UNCSA
Former dancer with Bolshoi Ballet, Vienna State Opera Ballet, Colorado Ballet, and more. On the international YAGP faculty for over 23 years, serving as Rehearsal Director, judge, and master teacher. He currently teaches at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts
Milees Pakri
Natalia Bashkatova
Misha Tchoupakov
Ballet Master, Harid Conservatory
YAGP Judge & Master Teacher
Originally from Estonia, Milees Pakri is a renowned ballet master and former soloist with Estonian National Ballet. A longtime faculty member at The Harid Conservatory, he is also a respected YAGP judge and master teacher, known for his Vaganova-based coaching and insightful performance preparation.
Veronika Part
Oliver Halkowich
Oliver Halkowich
Former Principal Dancer, American Ballet Theatre
A celebrated ballerina recognized for her lyrical artistry and depth of expression, Veronika Part is a guest master teacher and coach who has worked with students at the highest level of pre-professional training.
Oliver Halkowich
Oliver Halkowich
Oliver Halkowich
Contemporary Choreographer, Former Houston Ballet
Known for his creative, theatrical, and innovative choreography, Oliver brings a contemporary edge to classical training. He creates new works for youth competitions and leads dynamic workshops that inspire artistry.
YAGP Photo Gallery
Contemporary Duet, Top 6
Summer Ballet Programs for All Ages!
Join us this summer for inspiring ballet classes for children, teens, and adults — from our youngest dancers in Pre-Ballet to advanced intensives and adult beginner classes. Stay active, build technique, and enjoy the art of dance all summer long!
Limited spots available — register today!