Beck Center Dance Education Shines At Youth American Grand Prix

After months of training, fundraising, and anticipation, Beck Center was well-represented at the Youth American Grand Prix (YAGP) February 28 - March 2 in Chicago. Our students placed 4th out of 53 ensembles from around the country. The YAGP is the largest dance scholarship competition in the country.

Because of their impressive performance and standing, the nine-member ballet ensemble has received an invitation to the YAGP 2014 Finals held this April in New York City. Because YAGP has the reputation for being the premier dance showcase for students in America and abroad, being selected for the Finals gives the participants an important distinction and boost to their professional dance careers.

"YAGP offers our young dancers the opportunity to challenge themselves beyond the studio walls of Beck Center,” remarked Melanie Szucs, associate director of dance education. “The competition offers the opportunity to meet dancers from across the country, take master classes in ballet and contemporary technique, and receive valuable feedback from international judges."

The students’ performance piece, titled "Happy New Year's Day," has been chosen by adjudication for the All Ohio Dance Festival Showcase at Tri-C East on April 5 and the Ohio Dance Young Artist's Concert in Columbus on April 25.

Congratulations to our student dancers Alexandra Cassidy, Bethany Comienski, Kathryn Johnson, Ciara McGlynn, Julia Parrish, Abby Schneider, Addy Steffen, Becky Steffen, and Eva Wynn.