Currently, the Grand Rapids Ballet Junior Company is actively engaged in a variety of performances and outreach initiatives. They regularly participate in the main stage productions of the Grand Rapids Ballet, providing them with invaluable stage experience. In addition to these performances, the Junior Company is known for its annual showcase, which highlights the skills and artistry of its members. The 2023 season has seen the company expand its repertoire, introducing contemporary works alongside classical ballet pieces. The Junior Company also focuses on community engagement, hosting workshops and performing at local schools, which helps to inspire a new generation of dancers and audiences. As part of their commitment to fostering talent, the GRBJC collaborates with guest choreographers and instructors, offering its members unique learning experiences. Furthermore, the company has adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic by incorporating virtual performances and online classes, ensuring that their members continue to receive quality training and performance opportunities. Looking ahead, the Junior Company is excited to announce plans for a summer intensive program, which aims to attract young dancers from around the region to train and perform in a professional setting. This program is expected to not only enhance the dancers' skills but also to enrich the local arts scene in Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids Ballet Junior Company History

The Grand Rapids Ballet Junior Company (GRBJC) was established in 2002 as a part of the Grand Rapids Ballet, which is Michigan's longest-running professional ballet company. The Junior Company was created to provide a platform for young dancers to gain performance experience and training in a professional environment. This initiative aimed to nurture the next generation of ballet talent while allowing students from the Grand Rapids Ballet School to perform alongside the professional company. Over the years, the GRBJC has evolved, expanding its repertoire and performance opportunities, including participation in community events, annual productions, and collaborations with local artists and organizations. The Junior Company has become an integral part of the Grand Rapids arts community, showcasing the talent of young dancers and fostering a love for ballet among local audiences. The dancers are typically aged between 12 and 18, and through the years, many have gone on to pursue successful careers in ballet, either in professional companies or in higher education institutions focused on dance.