Ballet School
inside the Theater in New York
At the Ajkun Ballet School, we provide pre-professional ballet training in New York City for dedicated dance students ages 12–18. Since 2000, under the direction of Artistic Director Chiara Ajkun, our school has prepared young dancers for advanced study and professional pathways through rigorous classical technique, performance experience, and individualized artistic mentorship grounded in the Ajkun Methodology.
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Training takes place within a working professional ballet company, allowing students to develop discipline, confidence, and stage presence in a real performing arts environment while refining technique with long-term dancer health in mind.
Full-time and intensive programs designed for dedicated ballet students at pre-professional and advanced levels.
Ballet Trainee Program (Ages 16+)
Learn and perform repertory from the Ajkun Ballet Company while advancing your training in the Ajkun Methodology. Designed for serious advanced dancers seeking professional-level experience in New York City. This program meets the standards for international trainee visas.
Children & Teens Dance Programs (Ages 3–18)
Foundational and intermediate ballet training for young dancers building strong technique, discipline, and performance confidence. Ideal preparation for students intending to pursue pre-professional ballet training.
Summer Ballet Intensive in New York (Ages 14–26)
A four-week intensive for intermediate and advanced dancers focused on technical refinement, repertory, and performance experience. Housing available.
Ballet Study in Europe (Ages 18–28)
Train alongside the Ajkun Ballet Company during its European tour and study with international ballet masters. Housing available. Contact us to learn more about upcoming tour dates and study opportunities
Winter Dance Workshop (No age limit)
Participate in the New York Winter Festival — a week of classes, rehearsals, and performance opportunities for individual dancers and groups.
Auditions & Scholarships
Admission to the Ballet School is by audition. Both in-person and video auditions are accepted for students seeking pre-professional ballet training in New York City.
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Merit-based scholarships are available for qualified dancers and are awarded during the audition process.
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We encourage families to review our audition requirements and contact the school for guidance in selecting the appropriate level of study.