OVERVIEW
In line with the continued growth of the Ballet Arkansas School for Dance, we are proud to offer students an exclusive opportunity to participate in Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP)—the world’s largest international ballet competition for students aged 9–20.

While application is open to students of the Ballet Arknasas School for Dance, participation is by invitation only and reflects a high level of dedication, technical ability, and professionalism. Team members will receive coaching from Ballet Arkansas Artistic Staff and Company Artists. This is a uniformed program, and students are responsible for wearing designated leotards and tutus for all YAGP classes and rehearsals.

 

ABOUT (YAGP) & PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

YAGP provides a prestigious platform for young dancers to:

• Compete for scholarships to top-tier dance schools

• Gain performance experience in a professional setting

• Connect with industry professionals through networking and mentorship

• Participate in masterclasses led by renowned dancers and instructors

• Be seen by international talent scouts and representatives from professional companies

Many YAGP alumni go on to dance with top companies around the world. For detailed rules, visit YAGP’s official Rules & Regulations.

 

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The YAGP program supports dancers in developing their solo and ensemble repertoire, building performance skills, and gaining experience in a highly competitive environment. Following competitions, students continue development through weekly team classes and guest artist masterclasses.

 

Each season includes:

• Fall Session: Individual coaching through private lessons to select and set solo variations.

• Spring Session: Group training, masterclasses, and preparation for solo and ensemble performances at the Spring Showcase.

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Students will:

• Learn and refine classical variations tailored to their technical level

• Rehearse classical and contemporary solos, and a group ensemble work

• Participate in masterclasses taught by répétiteurs and stagers working with the Company

• Have access to exclusive Ballet Arkansas YAGP merchandise

Assigned solo variations are subject to change throughout the season based on student growth and program needs.

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ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for YAGP participation, students must:

• Be enrolled in at least one weekly ballet class at the Ballet Arkansas School for Dance, Level 2/3 and above.

• Students enrolled in two or more weekly classes are eligible for multiple solos and the ensemble work.

• Fall within the following age groups:

  • Pre-Competitive: 9–11

  • Junior: 12–14

  • Senior: 15–19

• Demonstrate:

  • Strong technical ability and artistic maturity

  • Consistent progress in training

  • A high standard of professionalism both in and out of the studio

• Remain injury-free and capable of safely performing assigned choreography.​

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TUITION & FEES

• Monthly Tuition: Covers YAGP classes, rehearsals, and team-specific training.

• Additional Costs students are responsible for:

  • YAGP registration fees.

  • Costume purchase or rental.

  • Travel expenses.

  • Optional YAGP apparel purchases.

  • Additional fees for contemporary choreography, if applicable.

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MEMBERSHIP STANDARDS

Membership on the YAGP team is contingent upon:

• Strong class performance and rehearsal attendance.

• Maintaining technical standards.

• Timely tuition payments.

• Professional conduct at all times.

Ballet Arkansas reserves the right to remove students from the team if these standards are not met.​​

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COMPETITION REQUIREMENTS

• All participants must perform a classical solo.

• Contemporary solos are optional and assigned by invitation; Ballet Arkansas will assign the choreographer and coordinate staging (additional fees apply).

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ENROLLEMENT INFORMATION

Participation in the Ballet Arkansas YAGP Team is by audition or invitation only. Families and students interested in joining the program should express interest by emailing education@balletarkansas.org. Enrollment is limited and based on eligibility, technical readiness, and program availability.

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