Audition Opportunity for Ballerinas of Color
The Joffrey Ballet’s Dara Holmes. Photo by Quinn Wharton for Pointe.
The International Association of Blacks in Dance has announced that it is hosting its first annual ballet audition for women of color. On January 24, 2016, women ages 15 and older will have the opportunity to audition for directors from multiple companies, second companies and schools at the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Studios in Denver, CO. (See list of confirmed participating companies below.) Professional development, summer workshops and training positions will also be available.
Ballet’s lack of diversity
—and what to do about it—has been a frequent topic of late, with stars like American Ballet Theatre principal Misty Copeland leading the conversation. The sheer number of companies participating in IABD’s collective audition is a hopeful sign that directors are listening. For more information on how to apply, click here.
Confirmed participating companies:
Ballet Memphis
Charlotte Ballet
Colorado Ballet
Dance Theatre of Harlem
The Hartt School
Houston Ballet
Joffrey Ballet
Kansas City Ballet
Nashville Ballet
Pacific Northwest Ballet School
Pennsylvania Ballet
San Francisco Ballet
The Washington Ballet
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