How to Audition for the American Ballet Theatre

Founded in 1939, the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) has earned world renown for its commitment to classic ballets while embracing new works by promising choreographers. Because of its demanding roles, the ABT travels through the United States to audition the best young dancers to study with the company. Once a dancer has been chosen for the company, she is provided with classes, professional guidance and the opportunity to perform onstage.

Things You'll Need

  • Money order
  • Head shot
  • Performance photograph
  • Tights
  • Leotard
  • White T-shirt
  • Ballet shoes
  • Pointe shoes
  • Videotape
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Instructions

  1. Auditions

    • 1

      Check with the American Ballet Theatre about the dates and sites for their National Audition Tour. You must be between the ages of 9 and 22 and have previous training in ballet to audition at any of the tour's stops.

    • 2

      Arrive at least 60 minutes before the auditions begin with a check, money order or cash to pay the registration, which is usually under $50. You do not need to preregister for the auditions. Bring a head shot as well as a photograph taken of you that clearly shows you performing the first arabesque. Pictures can be in black and white or color, but ABT keeps the photographs so make sure you have duplicates.

    • 3

      Dress in full-length pink tights and black leotards if you are a girl, and a white T-shirt and full-length black tights if you are a boy. Girls should bring their pointe shoes with them, while both sexes need to wear ballet slippers.

    • 4

      Be prepared to work the barre and do center work during the audition. Jumps and pointe work will also be required if appropriate. The company will be looking at each students' technique as well determining if the student has the right work ethic, memory and rhythm.

      Students will find out the results of their auditions about one week later by email.

    • 5

      Tape a 10-minute video of your work if you cannot attend an audition. The video must include barre work and adagio, petit allégro and grand allégro. Girls should demonstrate their pirouette combination en pointe, while boys need to show two turning combinations and tours en l'air.

      Contact the ABT about the deadline for submitting your videotape.

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