Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program:
Professional Ballet Training in NYC
Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program is a premier pre-professional ballet program in New York City, designed for advanced dancers to bridge the gap between training and professional performance within a working company. Rooted in the proprietary, science-based Ajkun Methodology—a system focused on biomechanics and dancer longevity—the program provides structured daily training, company repertory experience, and individualized artistic mentorship. Ajkun Ballet Theatre welcomes national and international dancers to audition for its full-time ballet program in NYC, which serves as a proven launchpad for professional ballet careers in the United States and abroad.
Submit your Audition Application to the Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program
Ballet Program at a Glance
-
Location: Manhattan, New York City
-
​Program Type: Full-time ballet training program for advanced dancers
-
Training Focus: Ballet and repertory training, performance practice, artistic mentorship, and professional development in the Ajkun Methodology
-
Eligibility: Advanced dancers, ages 16+
-
Auditions: Video or open audition
-
Positions: 10 trainee positions
-
International Access: International dancers welcome; visa sponsorship available to eligible accepted dancers
-
Professional Outcomes: 95%+ of program completers have secured professional employment. AjkunBT alumni have been employed by 150 professional dance companies worldwide.
Visa Sponsorship for International Ballet Dancers
International dancers accepted into Ajkun Ballet Theatre's full-time Trainee Program in NYC must obtain an H-3 Visa. Ajkun Ballet Theatre is eligible to petition for H-3 non-immigrant dancers and will supply the necessary documents to support your visa application.
Ballet Training: the Ajkun Methodology
The Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program in New York City is rooted in the science-based Ajkun Methodology, Dr. Chiara Ajkun’s professional ballet training system focused on biomechanics and dancer longevity for dancers with career goals.
​
Trainees work within the artistic environment of Ajkun Ballet Theatre and gain direct exposure to the standards, discipline, and expectations of a professional ballet company.
Through ballet technique, repertory, pas de deux, performance practice, and individualized artistic mentorship, Ajkun Ballet Theatre trainees develop the technical clarity, versatility, stage presence, and professional responsibility required for today’s competitive ballet careers.
Ballet Program in New York City for Advanced Dancers
Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program is a full-time ballet trainee program in New York City for advanced dancers seeking intensive ballet training, company repertory experience, and performance opportunities within a professional ballet company environment.
Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program in a Nutshell
135
Countries entrust their finest talent to
Ajkun Ballet Theatre.
2000+
Candidates audition every year
10
Trainee positions available to dancers aged 16+
150
Professional dance companies have employed AjkunBT Alumni.
The Ballet Trainee Program in New York City at Ajkun Ballet Theatre accepts auditions by video or open audition. Portions of the ballet traineeship may be supported through institutional funding and AjkunBT Fund scholarships. Selected dancers may be eligible for housing or travel assistance during their participation.
Training with Chiara Ajkun is life changing. Chiara's knowledge, artistry and outstanding leadership has no comparison in today's ballet world and attracts the most brilliant talents of the Globe. Chiara's coaching is behind the most notable dancers gracing the stages of Australia, Asia, Europe, the Americas and the United States. If you can get into the Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program, you will be on your way to success.
- The Ballet World, Grace Ann Whitman
Advanced Ballet Training in NYC
Ajkun Ballet Theatre Dancer-First Approach
Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program in New York City is designed for ambitious ballet dancers who want to be seen, coached, and guided as individual artists. With only 10 trainee positions available, the program is intentionally selective and personal.
Each trainee’s ambitions, technical needs, artistic identity, and professional goals are carefully supported within a respectful company environment where every dancer is valued and heard.
Ballet Training in NYC with Ajkun Ballet Theatre
New York City gives ballet dancers exceptional exposure, artistic exchange, and professional opportunity. At Ajkun Ballet Theatre, trainees train in state-of-the-art professional facilities and theaters in Manhattan and are uniquely granted access to company class and rehearsals, working directly alongside accomplished company artists, distinguished directors from major international ballet companies, and dancers from around the world.
Ajkun Ballet Theatre’s environment gives trainees access to high-level daily standards, and the visibility needed to build confidence, discipline, artistic identity, and a competitive international ballet career.
Original Choreography and New Ballet Roles
A dancer’s career can be transformed by the opportunity to originate a role. At Ajkun Ballet Theatre, trainees may work directly with Dr. Chiara Ajkun, a world-renowned choreographer whose ballets have been presented by companies and artists in 27 countries.
Through original choreography, repertory creation, and direct artistic coaching, trainees have the opportunity to move beyond learning existing steps and contribute to the creation of new ballet works. For ambitious dancers, this experience offers a rare path toward artistic visibility, professional distinction, and a lasting place in the living history of ballet.
Audition
Dancers may audition for the Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program by video or through an open audition. Applicants should demonstrate advanced ballet training, artistic potential, discipline, and a clear commitment to professional dance development.
Submit your Audition Application to the Ballet Program in NYC
Ballet Trainee Program FAQ
Find answers to common questions about joining Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program, including auditions, full-time training, performances, New York City facilities, international participation, visa sponsorship, financial assistance, and university credit opportunities.
Ready to Audition for Ajkun Ballet Theatre?
Advanced dancers seeking professional ballet training in New York City are invited to audition for the Ajkun Ballet Theatre Trainee Program. Audition at any time during the year to reserve your spot. Only 10 places are available, first-come, first-served for qualifying dancers.
Ballet Audition for Advanced Dancers