The National Ballet of Costa Rica (BNC), in partnership with the Municipality of Escazú, has announced a new free pre-professional classical ballet training program for children and adolescents aged 10 to 15.
Launching this September, the initiative will be hosted at the Municipal School of Arts inside the Escazú Civic Center. The program aims to discover local talent and make elite artistic training accessible across all socioeconomic sectors.
Empowering Youth Through Classical Arts
The initiative combines high-level classical ballet technique with values-based education focused on discipline, perseverance, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership.
“We believe that talent exists across all sectors of our society; what is often missing are the opportunities to develop it,” said Viviana Clare, Executive Director of the National Ballet of Costa Rica. “This new project was created to open those doors and demonstrate that high-caliber artistic training can become a real tool for personal growth, discipline, and social transformation.”
Mayor of Escazú Orlando Umaña emphasized the community impact of early arts education:
“Training in artistic disciplines from an early age can help shape future citizens with values, sensitivity, creativity, and a stronger commitment to their community. That is why we will continue to promote initiatives that allow our youth to develop their talent and find in art a tool to grow, express themselves, and build a better future.”
Audition Details & Categories
Auditions for the inaugural cohort will take place on Saturday, September 5, at the Escazú Civic Center. Candidates will be evaluated across three experience levels:
- Category A (Ages 10–12): Beginners (no prior ballet experience required).
- Category B (Ages 10–12): Intermediate (minimum 2 years of ballet experience).
- Category C (Ages 13–15): Advanced (minimum 3 years of ballet experience).
While tuition is 100% free for selected dancers, BNC leadership highlighted that commitment and regular attendance will be strictly required to maintain enrollment in the program.
