Founded in 1993, the nationally recognized Trainee Program offers talented, advanced students a transitional experience that bridges the gap between the academic ballet setting and the world of professional dance. The Trainee Program is one of the few in this country that enables the aspiring dancer to pursue formal dance training and gain valuable performance experience with a professional company.

Richmond Ballet annually selects 18 – 20 students from its Summer Intensive Program to participate in the Trainee Program. Trainees are required to take a full course of study, which includes ballet, pointe, jazz, modern, character dance, pas de deux and variations, and spend six days a week in the classroom (and rehearsal) during the school year.

Attendance at the summer intensive session is required to be considered for the Richmond Ballet Trainee Program. Performance opportunities with Richmond Ballet’s professional company are part of the trainee experience.

The Trainee Program is tuition based. Merit scholarships are awarded to each trainee and financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Virginia Commonwealth University offers a joint BFA program with The School of Richmond Ballet. For more information, please visit VCU’s website: http://www.pubapps.vcu.edu/bulletins/prog_search/?did=20419

If interested in the Trainee Program offered through The School of Richmond Ballet, please visit the auditions section. For more information, please contact Susan Collet at scollet@richmondballet.com