Students of Ballet East were honored at the Youth America Grand Prix semifinal competition this month in Tampa.
Among the top finishers were Jules Mabie, who won second place in classical ballet in the junior men category, and Madison Russo, who took second place in the contemporary dance junior women’s category.
Student Carley Anderson was among the top 12 highest scores in the junior contemporary women’s division. In addition, an ensemble piece titled Tabula Rasa, choreographed by director Chelsea Nasby, was one of seven pieces selected to perform in the Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Gala held at the 2,600-seat Carol Morsani Hall.
Ballet East students danced alongside numerous principal dancers from leading companies such as Ashley Bouder, Daniel Ulbricht, Beckanne Sisk, and Veronika Part.
Both Mabie and ensemble piece Tabula Rasa will advance to the New York finals in April. Ballet East is accepting sponsors to help the make the trip to the New York finals possible for the students.
Ballet East, located at 2635 Vista Parkway, Suite 7, is now accepting students ages 3 and up for its spring season, which will end with a production of Cinderella June 14 and 15 at the Eissey Campus Theatre. For more info., contact Ballet East at (561) 683-0096 or BalletEastFL@gmail.com.
ABOVE: Ballet East Youth Ensemble members include (left to right) Erica Borden, Aspen Bohn, Tara Brigham, Bianca Napolitano, Breana McGhee, Jules Mabie, Madison Russo, Carley Anderson, Leah Wilson-Griffith, Paige Lewis, Daisia Pulz, Evelyn Borden and Sydney Sheldon.
