HALIFAX: Young dancers in the Halifax area will have an opportunity to take a step toward pursuing their ballet dreams when Canada’s National Ballet School brings its 2026/2027 North American Audition Tour to the city later this month.
The prestigious Toronto-based school will hold an in-person audition in Halifax on Sunday, Nov. 22, as part of a 15-stop tour across Canada and the United States.
The annual tour connects aspiring dancers with the opportunity to audition for the school’s Professional Ballet Program and Summer Intensive Experience.
Dancers attending the in-person auditions will take part in a ballet class led by NBS teachers, accompanied by live music.
Auditions for the Professional Ballet-Academic Program and Summer Intensive Experience are open to students entering Grades 6 to 12 in September 2027. Previous dance training is not essential for children under the age of 12.
The school’s Professional Ballet Program combines high-level dance training with academic instruction and on-campus residence accommodations at its Toronto campus. The program is designed to develop well-rounded artists while preparing students for a variety of future opportunities in dance and beyond.
“Each year, I’m inspired by the hundreds of talented young aspiring dancers we see during our audition season,” said Margaret Tracey, Canada’s National Ballet School artistic director.
ADVERTISEMENT:
Tracey said the audition experience is an important first step in a dancer’s journey, adding that the school’s comprehensive training includes artistic opportunities, health and wellness supports, academics and residence life.
Students who successfully audition may be invited to participate in the school’s four-week Summer Intensive Experience in July. For those pursuing the full-time Professional Ballet Program, the summer program also serves as the second stage of the audition process, with successful candidates eligible to enter the school for the 2027/2028 academic year.
NBS also offers a post-secondary Company Life Program for dancers who have completed high school in a full-time dance program and are preparing for professional careers.
The school has helped launch the careers of dancers performing with internationally recognized companies, including the Dutch National Ballet, The Royal Ballet, English National Ballet and New York City Ballet.
Those unable to attend an in-person audition can also submit a pre-recorded video audition.
For more information about the programs and to register for an audition, visit Canada’s National Ballet School website.
