artistic director Erich Yetter
academy director Rebekah von Rathonyi
What is the Pre-Professional Training Program?
It is an intense training program, beginning at the Ballet 4 level, designed to develop those academy dancers who have a desire to pursue ballet as a career. Besides the required number of academy ballet classes, pre-professional trainees would be required to take four additional classes: pas de deux, variations, stretch & strength, and modern dance. Ballet is a profession for the young, so that by the time a dancer is in their mid-teens, industry standards demand a very high level of technical ability and physical control in order to compete for the limited amount of existing jobs.
Many of our instructors came from professional backgrounds and are able to channel their vast experience and knowledge into the next generation of dancers. This course of training will allow those who want to dance professionally a fighting chance in the competitive, consuming world of ballet.
Why initiate a Pre-Professional Training Program?
After examining the effectiveness of our ballet training under the current system, we found our academy lacking in the areas of quantity and types of classes required in order to reach a professional level. By comparing ourselves with other outstanding ballet schools around the country, we determined the need for and structure of this new program.
Who is the Pre-Professional Training Program for?
This program is designed only for those dancers willing to submit to the rigorous schedule of a professional discipline. Few students or parents realize the demands ballet puts on your body and time. We always offer the option of paying per class ($15 per class, payable in advance).
Can I opt in and out of the Pre-Professional Training Program on a semester basis if I want to?
I strongly encourage only those students who are serious about ballet as a career to sign up for this program. It is not designed to take part of the year. Even though your child is very young by other career standards, it is imperative that they decide to follow dance as their dream from an early age. Similar to gymnastics, the physical work and stamina required of classical ballet needs to start early. (The average age of retirement for ballet dancers in New York is twenty-eight.)
This is not a program for everyone. It is available to those dancers who are truly committed to becoming a professional dancer.
What does it cost?
The dollar cost of the Pre-Professional Training Program is the same as the regular academy class hourly schedule. The time commitment is the true price of the program. Pre-professional trainees would be REQUIRED to take 8 to 9 classes per week, that is 4 or 5 technique classes and the four other classes listed in the paragraph above. Attendance is mandatory. In order for us to justify our instructors’ extra time and preparation, a sincere commitment of time and effort from the student is necessary. Any absences will be made up by attending another class at or below their level with the prior approval of the Academy Director. Those of us who have had a professional career agree that our early training program was much more intense than what is currently offered at Peoria Ballet Academy. It is not uncommon for aspiring ballerinas to dance four hours a day, five days a week and all day Saturday. The reality is that this is the kind of passion it takes in order to build the strength, stamina, knowledge of repertoire, confidence and technical competence needed to dance professionally.
What will they wear?
Students in the Pre-Professional Training Program will wear academy regulation leotards, as outlined in the parent handbook corresponding to their particular level. To avoid feelings of jealousy or a perceived favoritism, all academy level uniforms will remain the same for pre-professional trainees.
Is my child required to perform and rehearse if they are in the Pre-Professional Training Program?
No. The Peoria Ballet Academy exists to teach the art of dance and to build an appreciation of that art form. Performing is in essence the culmination of training. It is an opportunity to use the skills gained from hours of instruction in order to create something beautiful and worthwhile. Performing is a privilege that requires extra dedication and sacrifice.
Students in the Pre-Professional Training Program will have the chance (if asked) to be in a production or not. Their courses would not change, but rehearsals would be added to their curriculum.
Can my child still be in Nutcracker if they are NOT in the Pre-Professional Training Program?
Yes. As long as the Peoria Ballet does Nutcracker, we will need young dancers to fill the many different children’s roles in that ballet. Other ballets may also require young dancers as extras.
What if we don’t like or can’t cope with the schedule of the Pre-Professional Training Program?
That’s fine. The Academy Director will arrange for your child to be in the regular academy program. You will be able to take advantage of the same excellent training, but with a less strenuous schedule.
What if I don’t want to do the full Pre-Professional Training Program but want extra training?
No problem. Serious academy students (beginning at Ballet 3 level) may take the Pre-Professional Training Program classes on a per class or semester basis. The single class rate is $15 per class, paid at the beginning of the class, or if you register for the whole semester, the rate is $45 per month for each extra class (click here for tuition details).
What “rewards” can I expect if my child is in the Pre-Professional Training Program?
A strong, beautiful, well rounded ballet technique is the sole purpose and only reward behind the Pre-Professional Training Program. With a combination of dedication, perseverance and talent, your child will have a realistic opportunity for a professional dance career.
