Charleston Dance Center Youth Ballet
Excellence Through Commitment
Introducing the Charleston Dance Center Youth Ballet (CDCYB)—a premier training and performance company for dedicated dancers who are passionate about ballet, artistry, and the creative process.
Designed for dancers ages 8+, CDCYB offers a unique opportunity to experience pre-professional training in a supportive environment where commitment, growth, and collaboration take center stage.
Acceptance into the program is based not only on technical ability, but on a dancer’s dedication to their training, work ethic, and passion for performing.
What Makes CDC Youth Ballet Different?
Many young dancers dream of performing with a ballet company. While professional productions often provide wonderful opportunities, younger dancers are frequently limited to ensemble roles.
Charleston Dance Center Youth Ballet was created to bridge that gap.
Here, dancers become part of a company. They rehearse together, grow together, and perform meaningful choreography that allows them to develop not only their technique, but also their artistry, confidence, and stage presence.
Our goal is to provide dancers with the opportunity to experience the creative process from the inside—to tell stories through movement, collaborate as artists, and shine as valued members of a performing company.
Under the artistic direction of Sarah Walborn, Principal Dancer with Palmetto City Ballet, dancers receive exceptional ballet and contemporary training while preparing for inspiring performances throughout the season.
A Season of Performance
The 2026–2027 season offers dancers meaningful opportunities to perform and grow as artists.
The Nutcracker Suite
Company members will perform in Charleston Dance Center’s beloved annual holiday production, bringing timeless ballet to the stage during the holiday season.
Inaugural Spring Production
The season concludes with CDC Youth Ballet’s debut full-length production. While rooted in classical ballet, the performance will also incorporate contemporary choreography, showcasing the versatility, artistry, and unique strengths of each dancer.
Weekly Training
Company members train together each Saturday throughout the school year in an immersive rehearsal environment designed to strengthen both technique and performance skills.
Saturdays
• 10:00–11:00 AM — Ballet or Contemporary Technique
• 11:00 AM–12:30 PM — Rehearsal
• 12:30–1:00 PM — Lunch
• 1:00–3:00 PM — Rehearsal
Occasional Sunday rehearsals may be scheduled leading up to performances as needed.
Is CDC Youth Ballet Right for You?
CDCYB is designed for dancers who:
Are ages 8 and older
Have a passion for ballet and performance
Want to strengthen their technical training
Are excited to collaborate in a company setting
Value dedication, discipline, and artistic growth
Whether your goal is to pursue professional dance, complement your current training, or simply immerse yourself in a focused ballet experience, CDC Youth Ballet provides an inspiring environment where dancers can thrive.
Audition Information
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
Time: 12:00–2:00 PM
Location: Charleston Dance Center
Audition Fee: $75
What to Wear
Female Dancers: Black leotard, pink tights, ballet shoes, pointe shoes (if applicable), hair secured in a neat ballet bun
Male Dancers: Black or white fitted T-shirt, black tights, black ballet shoes, hair neatly groomed and away from the face
Frequently asked questions
Your Guide to Joining CDCYB
Join the Inaugural Company
Be part of the very first season of Charleston Dance Center Youth Ballet.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself, grow as an artist, and experience the joy of performing meaningful works alongside dedicated dancers, we invite you to audition.