The BAMO Ensembles
Where rising talent becomes lasting legacy.
Auditions for the 2025–2026 Season
Saturday, September 20, 2025
All Ensemble (a.k.a. Company) dancers must be enrolled at the Ballet Academy of Missouri (BAMO) for the full 2025–2026 school year. They are also required to take the recommended number of ballet classes corresponding to their assigned level to maintain technical and artistic progress.
The Ensemble Experience
Where dedication meets distinction.
The BAMO Youth Ensemble is the premier pre-professional ensemble of the Ballet Academy of Missouri, created for serious students who aspire to pursue dance at the collegiate or professional level. Admission is by audition only and reserved for dancers who demonstrate exceptional commitment, discipline, and potential.
Ensemble members represent BAMO at prestigious local and national events, including:
BAMO’s Annual Nutcracker (Premieres Winter 2026)
Spring Dance Concert (May 31, 2026)
Youth America Grand Prix – Kansas City (January 15–18, 2026)
National Ballet Competition – Wilmington, DE (February 27–March 1, 2026)
Masquerade Dance Competition – Kansas City (April 10–12, 2026)
Participation in the Ensemble’s large group choreography is required. All other competitive opportunities—including solos, duets/trios, and small groups—are optional and assigned based on readiness and availability.
Ms. Grapes' Top 24 Large Ensemble at the YAGP 2022 Finals, with choreography by Riccardo DeNigris with the Hinsdale Dance Academy
Ensemble Solo Opportunities
Solo work at BAMO is a privilege earned through dedication, not a guarantee. Dancers must demonstrate consistent attendance, outstanding class and rehearsal etiquette, and strong artistic and technical development.
Age 8 dancers may be eligible for one solo, with careful attention to readiness and emotional maturity to avoid early burnout.
Age 9 and older are required to prepare two solos: one classical ballet variation and one contemporary solo.
Solos are always optional; however, dancers who accept them must uphold BAMO’s highest standards of preparation, responsibility, and professionalism. Selection for solo work reflects not just ability, but maturity and work ethic.
Summer Requirements
To remain eligible for Ensemble participation in the 2026–2027 season, all dancers must attend BAMO’s 4-week Summer Intensive with a world-renowned guest faculty.
Senior Ensemble dancers (ages 13+) may fulfill this requirement by attending a pre-approved intensive at a professional ballet institution, with written approval from the BAMO directors in advance.
Junior Ensemble
For dancers ages 8–12
The Junior Ensemble serves as the foundation of BAMO’s pre-professional training program. Dancers gain early exposure to ensemble work, stagecraft, and structured rehearsals while building technique, musicality, and confidence. The experience is nurturing yet rigorous, preparing young dancers for the responsibilities of advanced training.
Senior Ensemble
For dancers ages 13+
The Senior Ensemble is designed for advanced students committed to preparing for collegiate and professional ballet opportunities. Dancers work with increasingly sophisticated choreography, refine their artistic voice, and engage in audition circuits and high-level competitions. The program challenges them to meet the highest performance and technical standards.