The mission of the Carolina Youth Ballet (CYB) is to provide public performing opportunities for talented middle and secondary school level dancers, to educate the community about the training of young dancers and the creation and choreography of classical ballet, and the opportunity to see classical ballet in a community environment at reasonable cost.

In addition to cultivating the discipline, technique, and grace required of world-class dancers, CYB's mission focuses on developing an appreciation of ballet within the community. CYB performances provide an opportunity for our community to enjoy exceptional ballet performed by local youth at an affordable, family price. Educational studies show that participation in the arts, as a performer or an observer, enhances creative thinking and writing skills, stimulates higher level thought processes, and improves listening skills.

The Carolina Youth Ballet is dedicated to providing students valuable performing experience and developing each dancer to their fullest artistic potential. Part of CYB's mission is to nurture and enhance the lives of our youth, establish a professional classic and contemporary youth company, and encourage new choreographers. The Company strives to work with local organizations to expand its outreach programs and to create arts awareness and training opportunities to a broader multi-cultural constituency.

History

CYB was organized in 2001 and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation through the efforts of Annette Hagopian, a locally acclaimed ballet teacher and Artistic Director of the Triangle Academy of Dance. Aware that most serious ballet students have few opportunities to demonstrate their skills in a public forum, or to gain needed experience prior to making decisions or commitments for possible dance related careers, she founded the Carolina Youth Ballet to make it possible for young dancers to have that experience, and for the public to enjoy and encourage their talents and goals.

About the Company

The Company plans to produce two major performances per year, open to the public, special event performances in the community, and lecture demonstrations at area schools. The young dancers, generally ranging in age from 12 to 17 years, will perform all the roles and choreography normally danced by older professional ballet dancers. Because the choreography of the classical ballets presented by CYB sometimes requires experienced partnering, one or two professional male guest artists may be invited to supplement the regular company members. In addition, professional dancers involved with the teaching and choreography of dances for the students will be asked to perform with CYB.

Education and Outreach

An important part of our educational mission, in addition to providing classes in our studios for students, is outreach. This means literally, "reaching out" to those in the community who may not otherwise be exposed to the opportunity to learn the ballet basics in a class setting, or to see a performance.

Lecture-Demonstrations

We are developing programs for schools during class hours, as well as, other interested organizations. They can be tailored to almost any age group. For information or to request an in-school lecture-demonstration by our staff and students, please contact us via phone or email.

Special Event Performances

These are offered for area events, such as, Apex Peak Week, Capitol Christmas Christmas-Tree Lighting, St. Mary Magdalene International Festival, Chinese New Year Festival, and other interested organizations. If you have such a need, please contact us via phone or email to schedule a performance.

Group Discounts

Discounted tickets to CYB’s performances are available to youth and civic groups. If interested please contact our school at 919-387-1298.