Young San Antonio Ballet Dancers Earn National Acclaim

Children's Ballet of San Antonio dancers receive numerous invitations and scholarships ahead of starring roles in "Don Quixote"

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:34pm

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Several young ballet dancers from the Children's Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) are receiving national recognition, earning over 100 placements in prestigious competitions and receiving more than 50 invitations and 24 scholarships to study at top ballet institutions. The dancers, who train under director Vanessa Bessler, will be featured in CBSA's upcoming production of the classic ballet "Don Quixote" at the Majestic Theatre in May.

Why it matters

The success of these young CBSA dancers highlights the strength of San Antonio's ballet community and the quality of training and performance opportunities available to aspiring ballet artists in the city. Their national recognition also brings positive attention to the local arts scene and inspires other young dancers in the community.

The details

The CBSA dancers have received awards and invitations from competitions and schools such as the Youth American Grand Prix, American Dance Competition's Youth International Ballet Competition, Celebrity Dance Competition, Universal Ballet Competition, Royal Ballet in London, Houston Ballet, John Cranko Schools, Miami City Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Colorado Ballet Academy, and Italy's Nevri Ballet Festival. Five of the dancers have been invited to the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix finals in Houston.

  • The CBSA dancers will be featured in the company's upcoming production of "Don Quixote" at the Majestic Theatre on May 8-9, 2026.
  • The Youth America Grand Prix finals will take place in Houston in May 2026.

The players

Vanessa Bessler

The director of the Children's Ballet of San Antonio, who provides fast-track professional training and performance opportunities for the young dancers.

Inez Dunne

A 13-year-old CBSA dancer who has won the coveted 2026 Youth America Grand Prix Award and will make her New York City debut at the YAGP gala at Lincoln Center in April.

Gigi Natho

A 14-year-old CBSA dancer who has won multiple scholarships and invitations to study at prestigious dance academies, and is excited to perform the role of Kitri in "Don Quixote".

Daniela Quiroga

A 16-year-old CBSA dancer who has won first place in the senior classical division of YAGP Chicago and has been accepted to full-year programs with several top ballet schools.

Joaquin Marsh

A 16-year-old CBSA dancer who has won numerous awards at competitions and will perform the role of the torero Espada in "Don Quixote".

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What they’re saying

“CBSA taught me how to work hard and value feedback. Ms. Bessler showed me that technique and artistry are equally important—she encourages us to feel our dancing and express it.”

— Inez Dunne

“There's nothing like the thrill of performing at the Majestic Theatre. This feels like a full circle moment for me. My first performance at the Majestic was in CBSA's 2018 production of 'Don Quixote.' Now I get to dance a dream role as Kitri!”

— Gigi Natho

“The training and encouragement that I have received from Ms. Bessler helped give me the confidence to believe that wherever I go, I can succeed.”

— Daniela Quiroga

“Ms. Bessler has taught me the value of discipline, focus and consistency. Her mentorship has inspired me to approach every situation with purpose and confidence.”

— Joaquin Marsh

“Ms. Bessler really pays attention to everyone, making sure you're doing the right thing so you don't get hurt or make bad habits.... She also brings in new choreographers which gives me a chance to try different styles of dance.”

— Ammon Crandall

What’s next

Five of the CBSA dancers have been invited to compete in the Youth America Grand Prix finals in Houston in May 2026.

The takeaway

The success of the young dancers from the Children's Ballet of San Antonio demonstrates the strength of the city's ballet community and the quality of training and performance opportunities available to aspiring ballet artists in San Antonio. Their national recognition brings positive attention to the local arts scene and inspires other young dancers to pursue their dreams.