Valentina Kozlova International Ballet Competition

Valentina Kozlova announces the 9th annual International Ballet Competition, where exceptional young dancers from around the world will dance for prizes that include company contracts ad scholarships to international schools, including the Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg. The panel of judges will again be led by Andris Liepa, former principal dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet and guest with American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, and the Royal Danish Ballet. Just a few of the other distinguished international judges are Charles Jude, former etoile with the Paris Opera Ballet; Nikolai Tsiskaridzke, director of the Vaganova School; and Paul McCrae, asst. director of the New Jersey Ballet. As always, one competition day will be turned over to contemporary dancers and choreographers. The week will come to an exciting finale on Sat. March 23 with a 6 PM announcement of the winners, followed by a 7 PM Gala Performance. Daily times vary, so please visit the website for details.