Trainee Program

Our Trainee program is nationally recognized. We select students annually from our Summer Intensive audition tour as well as video auditions for participation in the Trainee Program.

There are 2 levels of trainees as well as a boys training program. 

Our typical schedule is:

Ballet Technique 1 hr 30 min-1 hr 45 min daily (Mon-Sat)
Male Ballet/Variations 1 hr daily (M-F)
Pointe/Variations/Rep 1 hr daily (M-F)
Pas de Deux 1 hr per week
Modern/Comp 4 hours per week
Pilates 1 hour per week
Miscellaneous other styles

Trainees typically train 6 days and approximately 30 hours a week. Classes begin Tuesday, September 3 and run through the end of May.

Past BalletMet Trainees have gone on to dance for BalletMet, Ballet Memphis, Miami City Ballet, San Antonio Ballet, Minnesota Ballet, Cleveland Ballet, Louisville Ballet, Sacramento Ballet, Oregon Ballet Theatre, Nashville Ballet, City Ballet of San Diego, Kansas City Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet, Indianapolis Ballet,  New Jersey Ballet and Festival Ballet Providence to name a few.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

All trainees have the opportunity to be observed for selection by BalletMet Artistic Staff to perform with the BalletMet professional company as well as the second company.

BECOME A BALLETMET TRAINEE

Trainees are selected through auditions.

You can audition via our summer intensive auditions, send us a video, or arrange for an in-studio audition.

More Information

Trainee FAQ

How long is the Trainee Program?

The Trainee program beings and ends with our Academy year, usually immediately after Labor Day in September through the end of May. The final performance is the Spring Performance which occurs in June.

Does BalletMet assist with finding housing and roommates?

We have some local apartment buildings that have housed trainees in the past. They are The View on GrantThe SenecaThe Abigail and The Normandy. These are all in walking distance to BalletMet. We can also recommend certain zip codes for those that have transportation.

How much is tuition?

Tuition for the Trainee Program for 2024-25 is $8100.00 per student.

Are there scholarships?

Yes, there are limited merit based scholarships that are awarded at the discretion of the Academy Director.

Is there financial aid?

Yes, there is limited need-based financial aid available.

Are there performance opportunities?

Trainees perform in the performance ensemble shows, in Academy roles in The Nutcracker and in the Trainee Showcase and the Spring Performance. At the artistic staff’s discretion, trainees may be asked to perform in roles with The Company. In previous season trainees have performed in Giselle, The NutcrackerDorothy and the Prince of OzCinderella, and Serenade.

If you have any questions, please email Kathy Wilson at [email protected].