Training Opportunities for Children
The School of American Ballet (SAB), a leading ballet school since 1934, offers multiple paths for young dancers to experience world-class training at Lincoln Center in the heart of New York City’s Upper West Side. For students ages 4-5, SAB offers introductory ballet classes (Little Dancers) as part of the School’s SAB OPEN division. No auditions are necessary for these sessions, which are offered twice a year. Children ages 6-10 are invited to audition for SAB’s year round pre-professional ballet training program (Winter Term). SAB’s Winter Term includes a substantial scholarship program for students with need. No experience is needed or expected for any students through age 10. Discover more about each program and how to get involved below.
Little Dancers - for 4-5 year olds
Little Dancers is a component of the School of American Ballet’s SAB OPEN division, which does not require auditions for admission. Weekly classes for 4, 5 and young 6 year olds highlighting introductory ballet, creative movement, and classical music appreciation are offered each fall and winter. No previous training is necessary.
Students will participate in one 45-minute class each week at SAB’s Lincoln Center headquarters. Led by members of SAB’s faculty who are current or former dancers with New York City Ballet, classes will focus on teaching the fundamentals of dance, developing spatial awareness and introducing elementary ballet steps. Live music will accompany each class, allowing students to better understand the relationship between music and dance and helping them to develop a sense of musicality.
Auditions - for 6-10 year olds
For admission to the Winter Term, SAB holds auditions each spring for 6 to 10 year olds who live in the New York metropolitan area. Auditions are held at SAB’s headquarters at Lincoln Center and at locations in NYC neighborhoods and boroughs (Community Auditions). No previous training or experience is necessary for children in this age group.
Accepted applicants enroll in the upcoming Winter Term which begins in September. Depending on age and class level, dancers attend two or more 60 to 90-minute classes per week. At roughly nine years of age, students enrolled in the Winter Term are eligible to be cast in New York City Ballet productions, most notably George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Financial assistance is available for students with need. Visit the link below to learn more details or join our mailing list to be notified of upcoming audition opportunities.