The Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), often called the “American Idol of Ballet,” is bringing its 2025 Season Semi-Finals to Houston from March 6 – 9, giving hundreds of talented young dancers, ages 9 to 19, the opportunity to audition for scholarships to the world's top ballet schools and companies. This prestigious competition, which travels from city to city worldwide, serves as a launchpad for the next generation of ballet stars.

A Pathway to Professional Ballet Careers

Dancers who impress the judges at YAGP go on to perform professionally with leading companies such as American Ballet Theatre, Paris Opera Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, and New York City Ballet. With Houston as its next stop, the event will showcase some of Texas’ finest young dancers, all competing for a chance to take their careers to the global stage.

Event Details:

📍 Where: Cullen Performance Hall, 4800 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77004
📅 When:

• Thursday, March 6 | 3:30 PM - 9:30 PM
• Friday, March 7 | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Saturday, March 8 | 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
• Sunday, March 9 | 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  📌 More Info: Full Schedule

What is YAGP?

As the largest global network of dance, Youth America Grand Prix has awarded over $5 million in scholarships over the past 25 years, with $450,000 awarded annually to the world’s leading ballet institutions. Since its inception in 1999, over 200,000 young dancers from diverse backgrounds have participated in YAGP’s international audition classes, workshops, and performance opportunities.

Each year, over 12,000 dancers audition for YAGP, and today, 450 alumni dance with 80 professional ballet companies around the world, including the Mariinsky Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, and Boston Ballet. More than 100 alumni have reached the esteemed ranks of soloists and principal dancers.

YAGP was founded by Larissa Saveliev, a former dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, who moved to the United States in the early ‘90s. Her vision has helped shape the careers of countless ballet dancers, making YAGP a critical stepping stone in the world of professional dance.

Why Houston Matters

Houston’s thriving arts scene makes it an ideal location for a YAGP semi-final. With a deep appreciation for dance and a growing reputation for fostering young talent, the city plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of ballet. This event not only highlights the dedication of aspiring dancers but also underscores Houston’s commitment to the performing arts.

🌟 Witness the future of ballet! Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to see tomorrow’s stars in action.

For updates and behind-the-scenes coverage, follow Houston Style Magazine and Youth America Grand Prix on social media. 🎭✨