Photos Capture Future Dance Stars at Youth America Grand Prix

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The annual Youth America Grand Prix dance competition held its semifinals in River Forest, Illinois, where up-and-coming dancers performed traditional and contemporary styles at the Dominican University Performing Arts Center. This photo gallery captures the talented young dancers vying for scholarships and professional opportunities with top ballet companies.

Why it matters

The Youth America Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious ballet competitions, serving as a springboard for the next generation of professional dancers. The event draws hundreds of aspiring ballet stars from across Illinois, with many going on to join top companies like American Ballet Theatre, Paris Opera Ballet, and New York City Ballet.

The details

The competition featured dancers ages 9 to 19 performing a variety of classical and contemporary ballet styles. Participants were evaluated by a panel of judges for their technical skills, artistry, and potential. The winners of the semifinals will advance to the finals, where they can earn scholarships and job offers from the world's leading ballet companies.

• The Youth America Grand Prix semifinals were held on February 6, 2026 in River Forest, Illinois.
• The competition's finals will take place in the coming weeks.

What’s next

The winners of the semifinals will advance to the Youth America Grand Prix finals in the coming weeks, where they will have the opportunity to earn scholarships and job offers from top ballet companies.