PRE-PROFESSIONAL DIVISION
OVERVIEW:
OBT School offers two pre-professional ballet training programs. OBT2, serves as our junior company providing high level training and consistent performance experience and learning opportunities with our main company, while our OBT Trainee program offers rigorous training and coaching with some dancers given occasional performance opportunities with our main company. Both programs facilitate the transition from student to professional dancer in a select group working creatively with the support of OBT School’s expert faculty, guest teachers, stagers, and choreographers. OBT2 and Trainee students are also given the opportunity to tour throughout the state of Oregon performing a varied repertoire in multiple spaces and theaters throughout the state.
OBT2 and the Trainee program are tuition-based programs, however merit and need-based scholarships are available. Participation is 1-2 years; students’ placement in the program is evaluated at the end of every year. Two years in the program is not guaranteed. Admission to OBT2 is based solely on invitation from the OBT2 program director, artistic director, and school director.
Dominic Walsh began his professional career at Houston Ballet in 1989 where he became a soloist in 1993, and a principal dancer in 1996. He went on to create his own contemporary ballet company, the Dominic Walsh Dance Theater from 2002 to 2014. Dominic has danced, set, and choreographed across North America, Europe, and Asia where he earned two Choo-San Goh Awards, a Princess Grace Award, and many other accolades. In 2022 Walsh also staged Ben Stevenson’s DRACULA for Oregon Ballet Theatre.
OBT2 and Trainee program dancers are selected by the OBT2 program director, school director, and artistic director through a combination of auditions and participation in the Summer Intensive programs.
Contact us with any questions at schoolofobt@obt.org.
