Ailey Auditions – Hosted by Melanie Person
Meridian to Manhattan: Audition for The Ailey School at The MAX!
Join us for an exclusive audition led by Melanie Person, Mississippi native and Co-Director of The Ailey School. This is a rare opportunity for dedicated dancers to audition for the prestigious 2026 Summer Intensive in New York City. Secure your place at the forefront of American dance culture.
Intermediate-level students with a serious commitment to technical growth in ballet
- Requirements: Minimum of three years of consistent, structured ballet training
- Objective: Dancers seeking admission into an immersive four-week introduction to The Ailey School’s curriculum in a professional environment
Professional Division (Ages 16-25)
Advanced students, college dance majors, and early-career professionals
- Requirements: Strong proficiency in both ballet and modern dance, with a minimum of three years of training in each
- Objective: Dancers seeking admission into a high-level summer training program or those utilizing the summer intensive as an audution for the Certificate or BFA programs
To maintain a professional environment and allow for precise technical feedback, please adhere to the following dress code (please visit the Alvin Ailey website for further dress code specifications):
- Attire: Black leotard or black form-fitting clothing
- Tights: Skin tone, pink or black tights (black leggings are optional)
- Footwear: Ballet shoes
- Essentials: Please bring a water bottle
Eligibility: Intermediate/Advanced dancers, ages 12-25
Registration required | Audition Fee: $15
Limited spots are available.
Come early on Saturday, February 28, to hear Melanie Person in conversation with David Keary, Artistic Director of Ballet Mississippi, and Rebekah Pleasant-Patterson, Executive Director of GRIOT Arts Inc., about turning Mississippi roots into a career, resilience, and mentorship.
