What is the American Youth Ballet Festival?
“The American Youth Ballet Festival was created to give elite young artists a non-competitive space to work with master teachers, receive performance feedback and foster relationships within the dance community.”
AYBF Schedule
The festival will have three levels for classes, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2 and Advanced. Detailed schedules will be released by February 15th, 2025.
Friday, May 2, 2025
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Registration
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Ballet Class
7:45 PM - 8:45 PM: Building Confidence as a Dancer (Seminar)
8:45 PM - 9:45 PM: Dancer Pizza Party | 90s Theme
8:45 PM - 9:45 PM: Teacher Networking
Saturday, May 3, 2025
8:30 AM Doors Open
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Ballet Class
10:45 AM - 12:15 PM: Jazz or Contemporary Class
12:15 PM - 1:15 PM: Lunch Break
1:15 PM - 2:45 PM: Jazz or Modern Class
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Repertoire
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Rotating Dinner Break and Tech for Performance
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Dinner Break
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Evening Performance & Adjudication
Sunday, May 4, 2025
12:30 PM Doors Open
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Ballet Class
2:45 PM - 4:15 PM: Social-Emotional Learning for Dancers Seminar
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Career Q&A with Guest Faculty
World class teachers, mindset coaches, community connections and lots of fun are key components of this festival. Dancers between the ages of 10-20 years are encouraged to join us! Directors can choose to bring their performance ensembles and teams, or individual dancers may register on their own.
Registration is $150 per dancer for master classes and workshops.
Classes begin on Friday, May 2nd and go through Sunday, May 4th.
There will be separate levels, directors will place students and individuals will be placed by age. Level placement may be adjusted based on faculty recommendation during the event in order to give each dancer the best experience.
See sample schedule.
Critiques are $45 per piece.
You may elect to purchase judges critiques or simply perform for the joy of it.
Each school is limited to three pieces.
Individual dancers are limited to one piece.
Lunch and dinner catering provided, and are optional.
Meals are $15 each and can be purchased at the time of registration.
All meals are provided through Healthy Nation Catering.
Parents may attend the performances, but tickets are limited to two per student.
Seating is limited and will sell out. Purchase tickets early!
Registration is now open! Deadline to register is January 15th, 2025.
The American Youth Ballet Festival, held in south Chicago, aims to inspire and nurture young dancers through an immersive weekend of master classes, seminars, and performances. By bringing together students and esteemed faculty from renowned institutions, the festival fosters artistic growth, mental well-being, and a sense of community. Our mission is to create an environment where dancers can learn, perform, and connect, encouraging both personal and professional development. Through expert critiques and collaborative opportunities, we strive to elevate the artistry and dedication of each participant, building lasting friendships and memories in the process.
What are the details?
Julianna Rubio Slager
Julianna Rubio Slager, Co-founder and Artistic Director of Ballet 5:8, is a visionary choreographer recognized for her impactful storytelling through dance. Since founding Ballet 5:8 in 2012, she has created over 50 works that explore profound themes of life, faith, and the human experience. With prestigious accolades and a commitment to cultural authenticity, Julianna blends her Mexican heritage and folklorico roots into her work, establishing a unique voice in contemporary ballet. Her dedication to fostering spaces of belonging and creativity has solidified her reputation as a respected leader in Chicago’s dance community.
Christopher McDaniel
Christopher McDaniel, a native of East Harlem, began his ballet journey at Dance Theatre of Harlem under Arthur Mitchell. His career highlights include roles with Dance Theatre of Harlem, Los Angeles Ballet, and Ballet San Antonio, along with significant contributions as a teacher and choreographer. In 2023, he joined the permanent faculty of the School of American Ballet (SAB), marking a historic appointment celebrated in Dance Teacher Magazine. Known for his commitment to nurturing young dancers, Christopher’s work expands ballet’s reach and impact, connecting artistry with meaningful outreach.
Sara Knight
Sara Knight brings a world of experience as a graduate of both the Royal Ballet School and the Vaganova Ballet Academy—the first British dancer to achieve this. With an impressive performance career spanning the Leningrad State Ballet Theatre, Northern Ballet Theatre, and Boston Ballet, Sara has also served as Ballet Mistress for top institutions and founded SLK Ballet School and Chevalier Ballet Company in NYC. Committed to dance outreach and accessibility, she teaches internationally, most recently staging Swan Lake for United Ukrainian Ballet. Sara’s dedication to technical excellence and outreach inspires dancers worldwide.
