Dreaming of becoming a world-renowned ballet dancer is a common aspiration for many young dancers worldwide. For aspiring dancers in Canada, the National Ballet School (NBS) is the epitome of excellence in ballet education. Canada’s National Ballet School is renowned for providing elite ballet training to its students, producing some of the world’s most talented dancers. However, getting into Canada’s National Ballet School is not an easy task. In this blog post, we will explore just how hard it is to get into Canada’s National Ballet School.
The audition process
The first requirement for admission to the NBS is having completed at least grade five in the Royal Academy of Dance or Cecchetti ballet training programs. The second requirement is passing the rigorous audition process. The NBS audition for the Professional Ballet Program is held across Canada and internationally, with more than 1,000 applicants auditioning each year.
Upon arrival at the audition, applicants are assessed based on their physique, their dance technique, and musicality. The audition process is extensive and requires physical stamina, technical proficiency, and the ability to perform under duress. Only a select few applicants are chosen to proceed to the second stage assessment.
The second stage assessment
If selected to proceed to the second stage assessment, applicants must travel to the NBS Toronto campus for a week-long intensive evaluation. During this phase of the audition, applicants will undergo multiple physical and medical assessments to determine their fitness and potential for ballet training.
Students will also be assessed in their dance technique, musicality, and artistic potential. The instructors observe and evaluate the candidates during this phase, with technique being just one aspect of the overall evaluation. The instructors will also pay close attention to the students’ attitude, work ethic, and ability to take instruction.
The acceptance rate
The competition is fierce, and only a small fraction of applicants get accepted each year. Out of the 1,000 applicants to the Professional Ballet Program each year, roughly 175 proceed to the second stage assessment. Of these 175 applicants, only 50 students are accepted into the program. That means out of the over 1,000 applications the school receives every year, only 5% are accepted into the Professional Ballet Program.
The requirements for admission
It’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria if you’re interested in applying for the NBS Professional Ballet Program. The NBS admission requirements include completing grade five in either the Royal Academy of Dance or the Cecchetti Ballet training programs. Additionally, students must pass the rigorous audition process described above.
NBS also offers a post-secondary program for students who have completed high school. Students who are interested in applying for the post-secondary program must have received their high school diploma and met the technical and physical requirements to be accepted into the program.
Conclusion
Becoming a student at Canada’s National Ballet School is not for the faint of heart. The competition is fierce, and the audition process is rigorous, requiring the applicant to demonstrate exceptional talent and ability. However, for those who are accepted into the program, the rewards are unparalleled. These students receive the opportunity to train with some of the best ballet instructors in the world, gaining exposure and experience that sets them on the path to become world-class dancers.
FAQ
How to audition for National Ballet of Canada?
The National Ballet of Canada is one of the most renowned ballet companies in the world. It has a rich history and has produced some of the finest dancers in the world. If you are interested in becoming a part of this prestigious company, then you must go through the audition process.
The first step in the audition process is to check the company’s website for the audition schedule. The National Ballet of Canada conducts auditions throughout the year, both nationally and internationally. You must attend one of these auditions if you want to become a part of the company.
Before attending the audition, you must prepare yourself mentally and physically. You should make sure that you are in your best shape, both physically and mentally. This means that you should have a regular workout routine, and that you should practice your dance techniques, including your pointe work, if you are a female dancer.
When you attend the audition, you will be required to perform a series of dance routines, including barre exercises, center work, and contemporary dance. These routines will be performed in front of the company’s artistic director and other members of the artistic staff. It is important that you perform these routines to the best of your ability and showcase your skills and talent.
It is also recommended that you bring a copy of your dance resume and a headshot with you when you attend the audition. These documents will help the artistic staff get a better idea of your past dance experience and your potential as a dancer.
Finally, it is important to remember that auditioning for the National Ballet of Canada requires hard work and dedication. You may not be selected for the company on your first attempt, but don’t let that discourage you. Keep practicing and improving your skills, and attend future auditions to increase your chances of getting selected. If you are truly passionate about ballet and want to become a part of this world-class company, you will have to work hard and persevere.
Is National Ballet of Canada good?
The National Ballet of Canada is considered one of the world’s finest dance companies. Founded in 1951 by Celia Franca, the company has a rich history of pre-eminent artistic directors and prides itself on its commitment to artistic excellence, innovation, and ballet education and training. Today, the National Ballet of Canada has 70 dancers, an in-house orchestra, and a permanent home at The Walter Carsen Centre in Toronto.
The company has an extensive and diverse repertoire that includes works by some of the most distinguished choreographers in ballet history, including George Balanchine, Rudolf Nureyev, Frederick Ashton, and John Cranko, among others. The company has also commissioned new works from contemporary choreographers, such as Alexei Ratmansky and Christopher Wheeldon, which have been highly praised both in Canada and internationally.
In terms of its productions, the National Ballet of Canada’s sets and costumes are known for their elaborate and stunning designs, bringing an extra level of spectacle to the performances. The company has staged numerous critically acclaimed and much-loved productions, such as The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, and Swan Lake, showcasing its versatility and skill.
Another aspect that speaks to the quality of the company is its ability to train dancers. The National Ballet School, established in 1959, is one of the world’s leading dance training institutions. It has produced many of the company’s leading dancers, and graduates go on to have successful careers in companies all around the globe.
Finally, the National Ballet of Canada has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, including the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance and the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. These recognitions attest to the company’s world-class status and artistic contribution to the Canadian dance scene.
The National Ballet of Canada’s history, repertoire, productions, dancer training, and recognition have solidified its position as one of the world’s top ballet companies. Its commitment to artistic excellence, collaboration with leading choreographers, and fostering new talent ensure that the company will continue to thrive both in Canada and internationally for many years to come.
What is the most prestigious ballet school in the world?
Ballet is a form of art that requires a lot of dedication and training. Training in ballet begins at a young age, and aspiring ballet dancers need to receive tutelage from prestigious ballet schools to hone their craft. So, what is the most prestigious ballet school in the world?
The Royal Ballet School is considered one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world. It is a ballet school based in London, United Kingdom, and it is known for producing world-class dancers and innovators in the ballet industry. The Royal Ballet School was founded in 1926 as the Academy of Choreographic Art by a famous ballet dancer named Dame Ninette de Valois. It officially adopted its present name in 1955 when it was granted its Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth II.
The Royal Ballet School is renowned for providing a world-class ballet education. The school has high academic standards, creative curriculum, and world-class faculty. The training in this school is recognized as one of the best in the world. They have a program that caters to all age groups and experience levels, be it beginners who are just starting out or seasoned professionals who want to enhance their skills and techniques.
The school’s rigorous training program includes not only dance classes but also academic subjects such as English, mathematics, history, and science. This well-rounded education allows students to achieve excellence in both ballet and academics while preparing them for opportunities beyond ballet. Besides, the school has a tradition of performing within the Royal Opera House and at other top venues, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their talents on a global stage.
The Royal Ballet School is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world. The school’s rich history, stringent training program, and commitment to excellence have earned it worldwide recognition. Aspiring ballet dancers from all over the world dream of getting admission to this esteemed institution.