PATHWAY PROGRAM 2026

Vision

Melbourne Youth Ballet Company's Pathway Extension Program is designed to provide aspiring young dancers with additional, high-quality training to complement their existing dance education. This initiative aims to enhance technical skills, strength, artistic expression, and overall development, preparing students for professional opportunities in the world of dance.

Program Overview

The Pathway Extension Program is tailored for students currently enrolled in a ballet school who wish to deepen their training with extra classes. Held on Saturday afternoons during Term 1, 2 & 3 of 2026 the program offers specialized training including ballet classes, pointe classes, and pilates sessions. Each term will have an additional focus in vocabulary of steps, Contemporary and Character technique. They will also delve into Repertoire in all three styles and work on their artistic expression with a performance in a studio showing setting at the conclusion of each term.

Prerequisites

Formal ballet training at RAD Grade 4 (or equivalent)

  • Level 1: 12–14 years old

  • Level 2: 15–18 years old

Candidates should have a strong understanding of classical ballet technique.

Class Schedule:

  • Saturdays: 2:30-5:30pm

    1. This schedule is designed to accommodate students’ existing commitments at their regular ballet schools and fits within the framework of the Victorian School Terms.

    2. The schedule per term will be sent out after registration is complete and prior to each term commencing.

Class Content:

  • Ballet Class (1.5 hours): Focus on classical technique to strengthen foundations, build step vocabulary and refine skills.

    1. Pilates (30 minutes): Tailored exercises designed to improve core strength, flexibility, and overall conditioning.

    2. Pointe Class (Term 1 - 1 hour, Term 2 & 3 - 30-45 mins as Classical Repertoire will also include pointe work): Aimed at dancers who are already dancing en pointe, with a focus on building strength, alignment, and stamina.

    3. Repertoire (1 hour): Focus on Classical Ballet, Contemporary or Character works to develop knowledge of the ballet’ industries rich history and various movement style involved in a proffesional companys’ seasons.

    4. Contemporary Technique (1 hour term 1): Exploring the foundations and concepts of contemporary dance to build versatility and artistic range.

    5. Character technique (30min term 3): Exploring the steps and technique of traditional Character dance used widely throughout traditional Ballet productions.

Performance Opportunities:

  • End-of-Term In-House Showcase:

At the conclusion of each term, all dancers will have the opportunity to showcase their progress in an in-house performance. This performance offers students the invaluable experience of performing in a supportive, creative environment and allows them to demonstrate their technical and artistic growth.

  • Youth Company Performances (additional costs):

Dancers in the Pathway Program will also have the opportunity to audition for the Melbourne Youth Ballet Company, which offers performance opportunities throughout the year. The Youth Company produces two Classical Ballet and one Contemporary performance season annually, providing an important stepping stone for students aiming to transition into professional ballet companies.