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  • About
  • School
    • Youth Classes 25/26
    • Adult Classes
    • Summer Youth Programs
    • Pre-Ballet Summer Program
    • Ballet, Art & Craft Camps
    • Workshops & Auditions
    • Competition Program
    • Pre-Professional Program
    • Private | Drop-In | Trial
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    • Faculty
    • Vaganova Method
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Minnesota Ballet School Competition Program | Ages 5–18+

Perform with Purpose. Grow with Confidence.

At Minnesota Ballet School, we believe performance is a powerful tool for growth—enhancing motivation, discipline, and artistic development.

Our Competition Program gives dancers the opportunity to train with purpose, build confidence, and gain real stage experience through elite regional and national events.


Whether your dancer is stepping into the spotlight for the first time or preparing for a pre-professional path, our experienced faculty provides expert coaching, personalized mentorship, and structured guidance every step of the way.


Designed for dancers ages 5–18+, the program offers separate tracks tailored by age and level—ensuring each student receives age-appropriate instruction, technical training, and performance opportunities in both classical and contemporary ballet.

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

Competition Team Interest FormWorkshop & Audition RegistrationJoin the Team

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.


Ready to Join?

Become part of a focused, supportive, and artistically enriching program.
Take your next step as a dancer with Minnesota Ballet School’s Competition Team.

Join the Team

Why Join the Competition Team?

  • Weekly Group Training: Focused sessions include ballet technique, classical variations, and contemporary choreography.
  • Elite Competition Access: Opportunities to compete at prestigious events like Youth America Grand Prix.
  • Professional Mentorship: Work with highly experienced faculty and guest artists.
  • Private Coaching Options: Solo and small group coaching available for dancers seeking individual preparation (separate fee).

Long-Term Benefits

Participation in our competition program offers more than just stage experience:

  • Demonstrated Commitment: Intensive ballet training shows dedication and discipline—valuable for college applications.
  • College & Arts Supplements: Performance videos and competition success strengthen application portfolios.
  • Scholarship & Intensive Opportunities: Competitions may lead to scholarships, summer programs, or professional pathways.

Our Approach to Competition

We believe that competitions are about growth—not just awards. Through this program, students learn to:

  • Explore new repertoire
  • Improve technique
  • Build resilience
  • Support fellow dancer
  • Perform with confidence
     

Competitions are subjective by nature. We emphasize the value of preparation, artistry, and personal progress over placements.

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!

Register Now for Workshop & Audition

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 2025-26

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 2025/26

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  September 8. Elevate your skills with private lessons and gear up for outstanding performances and competitions. Secure your spot now for this intensive training!


Sign up for Private Lesson

Competitions Information

Links

www.YAGP.org
www.americanballetcompetition.org
www.usaibc.com
www.adcibc.com
www.balletchampionshipsofamerica.com
www.nationalballetcompetition.org
www.worldballetcompetition.com
www.universalballetcompetition.com
www.usprixdeballet.com
www.dcgrandprix.org
www.masqueradedance.com (This competition takes place in the Metro Area)

Check the competition websites for dates and registration rules.

YAGP Photo Gallery

YAGP competition 2023, PAS D'ESCLAVE VARIATION FROM LE CORSAIRE
Yagp ballet competition, Giselle variation
YAGP ballet competition, Talisman variation
YAGP Ballet competition, Don Quixote variation

Contemporary Duet, Top 6

Interested in Competition team?

TO SCHEDULE AN AUDITION OR FOR MORE INFO CONTACT US DIRECTLY

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Minnesota Ballet School

14675 Martin Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55344, United States

612.501.9208

Copyright © 2025 Minnesota Ballet School. All Rights Reserved.

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!

Register Now

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