The 2018-19 season has been a transition year for Project Ballet as it creates awareness of its name change from New American Youth Ballet to the current moniker, better reflecting the vision, mission, and operational methods of the organization.

The season culminates in a series of concerts taking place May 16-18 at the First Presbyterian Theater in Fort Wayne. The Spring Concert Series is a succession of mixed repertory performances featuring four different programs over three days. An eclectic blend of classical and contemporary works, the performances at the Spring Concert Series are sure to please fans of just about every dance style and will include a brand new ballet choreographed for younger dancers by faculty member Austin Dowdy.

Founded in 2004, Project Ballet offers a full youth ballet curriculum for dancers ages 3 through 18. One of only a handful of schools of its kind nationwide, Project Ballet also offers an onsite Academic Conservatory for elite dancers. This unique arrangement allows dancers to pursue both their ballet training and their academic coursework in one facility.

Students at the school receive some of the best training available in the region and often receive scholarship offers to study at premier schools, universities, and dance companies around the country including Indiana University’s School of Dance, the School of American Ballet, and the New York City Ballet. — Chris Hupe