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𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘁 & 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 Featuring Meelis Pakri & Mariah Schilling August 3–6, 2026 | Ages 9–18
An Exceptional Training Opportunity for Dancers Ages 9–18
Minnesota Ballet School is proud to welcome dancers from Minnesota Ballet School and the surrounding dance community to join this exceptional four-day
Classical Ballet & Contemporary Intensive Workshop.
This unique opportunity allows dedicated dancers to train with internationally recognized guest teacher Meelis Pakri for four days of focused classical ballet instruction, alongside contemporary training with Minnesota Ballet School faculty member Mariah Schilling.
Designed for dancers preparing for auditions, competitions, summer programs, or those seeking to continue their artistic growth, this intensive provides high-level training focused on technique, artistry, musicality, versatility, and performance quality.
Faculty
Classical Ballet with Meelis Pakri (Guest Teacher)
Internationally recognized ballet educator, YAGP Judge, and faculty member at The Harid Conservatory, Meelis Pakri brings exceptional expertise in classical ballet technique, artistry, and dancer development.
Contemporary Training with Mariah Schilling (MBS Faculty)
Mariah Schilling will guide dancers through contemporary training focused on movement quality, musicality, creativity, versatility, and expressive performance.
Workshop Training
During this intensive workshop, dancers will work on:
- Classical ballet technique, alignment, coordination, strength, and artistry
- Contemporary movement, creativity, musicality, and expression
- Performance quality, confidence, and versatility as dancers
This workshop is designed to challenge dancers while supporting their individual growth and preparation for the upcoming dance season.
Workshop Details
Dates: August 3–6, 2026 (Monday–Thursday)
Ages: 9–18
Location:
Minnesota Ballet School
14675 Martin Drive, Suite 400
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Schedule
Monday–Thursday
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Classical Ballet with Meelis Pakri
12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Contemporary Training with Mariah Schilling
Thursday, August 6
3:15 PM – 3:45 PM
Competition Team Evaluation / Audition
The Competition Team Evaluation is required for dancers who would like to be considered for the 2026–2027 Competition Team.
Registration Options
Choose the option that best fits your dancer’s schedule:
Full 4-Day Workshop — $650
Includes all Classical Ballet and Contemporary classes from August 3–6 and eligibility for Competition Team Evaluation.
One-Day Drop-In — $180
Attend both workshop classes on one selected day:
- Classical Ballet with Meelis Pakri
- Contemporary Training with Mariah Schilling
Half-Day Drop-In — $95
Choose one class:
- Classical Ballet with Meelis Pakri
or - Contemporary Training with Mariah Schilling
Private Lessons Available
Private lessons are available with Meelis Pakri and Mariah Schilling during the workshop week.
This is a unique opportunity to receive individualized coaching, personalized corrections, and focused guidance to support technical and artistic development.
Private lessons with Meelis Pakri are a rare opportunity for dancers to work one-on-one with an internationally recognized ballet educator during his limited visit to Minnesota Ballet School.
Private lessons are limited and available for registration on our website.
Competition Team Evaluation
The Competition Team Evaluation is available only for dancers enrolled in the Full 4-Day Workshop.
Drop-in participants are welcome to attend individual classes but are not eligible for Competition Team consideration during this workshop.
Spaces are limited. Register today for this exceptional opportunity to train with inspiring professionals and prepare for your upcoming dance season.
About Meelis
Meelis Pakri Former principal dancer with the Estonian National Ballet and Colorado Ballet, currently faculty member at The Harid Conservatory, and YAGP judge.
Meelis Pakri, born in Tallinn, Estonia, is a distinguished ballet master and educator with a career spanning over three decades. He received his early training at the Tallinn State Ballet School and later graduated from the prestigious Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Between 1986 and 2001, Pakri excelled as a principal dancer with the Estonian National Ballet and Colorado Ballet. During this period, he also performed as a guest artist with renowned companies, including the Macedonian National Theatre Ballet in Skopje, the Martha Graham Dance Company, and at the International Ballet Festival in Havana, Cuba. His repertoire encompassed lead roles in major classical ballets, as well as neoclassical and modern works by choreographers such as George Balanchine and Martha Graham.
At the age of 22, Pakri began his teaching career, instructing men's technique and partnering classes at the Tallinn State Ballet School. Following his retirement from the stage, he served as a ballet master for Colorado Ballet and Houston Ballet. He also held a teaching position at The Royal Ballet Upper School in London, England. His expertise has been sought after globally, leading to guest teaching engagements in Japan, Denmark, Italy, England, and the United States. Additionally, he has been a guest teacher for the Estonian National Ballet and The Royal Ballet Company in London.
Pakri's contributions to ballet extend to his roles as a juror for prestigious competitions, including the Japan Grand Prix and the Youth America Grand Prix. His students have achieved significant success, winning numerous awards at the Youth America Grand Prix. Currently, he is a full-time member of the dance faculty at The Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida, where he continues to impart his extensive knowledge and passion for ballet to the next generation of dancers.
Pre-Competition Workshop, August 17–20, 2026 | Ages 5-8
Overview
This camp is designed for dancers ages 5–8 who are interested in exploring structured ballet training in a fun and supportive environment. No prior experience is required.
Faculty will guide dancers through age-appropriate training and observe their progress to help support future placement and training recommendations.
Who Can Attend
- Dancers ages 5–8
- Open to all dancers — MBS & non-MBS
- No prior experience required
What Dancers Will Work On
- Basic classical ballet positions and foundational steps
- Simple movement sequences and creative exploration
- Musicality, coordination, and focus
- Confidence, performance skills, and classroom awareness
Schedule
Dates: August 17–20, 2026
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 AM daily
Location: Minnesota Ballet School Studio
Tuition
$160 for the full 4-day camp
Registration: Sign up online. Limited spots available!