Who should audition, and when are the next dates?

We invite disciplined dancers ages 9–18 with at least two years of formal ballet training and the desire to pursue preprofessional study. Candidates under 8 are not accepted, preserving cohort rigor and safety. Audition dates are posted seasonally; if you cannot attend in person, request our video-audition guidelines and deadlines.

How should I prepare, and what should I bring?

Arrive warmed up, with clean technique shoes, water, and a small towel. Ladies should wear a solid leotard, pink or skin-tone tights, and bring pointe shoes if en pointe; gentlemen should wear fitted shirt and tights. Pin your number securely, label belongings, and prepare a brief classical variation if invited for solo review.

What happens after acceptance, and how is placement determined?

Placement considers technical readiness, strength, and injury history, not just age. Students receive a progression plan that includes technique, pointe, conditioning, music, and academic enrichment to support the whole dancer. Families also receive orientation materials covering schedules, expectations, uniform standards, and scholarship inquiry steps.

Elite Ballet School Auditions in Grapevine TX

Begin Your Journey with Us...

Fall 2025 Enrollment — Ongoing Auditions
At St. Matthew’s Conservatory of Classical Dance, we believe in answering the call to “Be the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). Our mission is to form dancers of exceptional skill, discipline, and character — artists whose training is grounded in mind, spirit, and body.

Only 10 students per level will be welcomed into our state-of-the-art program, with full and partial scholarships available for those selected. We are seeking not only the most gifted dancers in DFW, but those with the heart, humility, and dedication to become true pre-professional artists.

If you missed our recent audition, you can still secure your child’s opportunity to train with master teachers from New York City. Request an audition today, and we’ll find a time that works with your family’s schedule.

Matthew 5:14 “You are the light of the world. "

The Audition Experience at St. Matthew’s: A Pathway to Excellence

Understanding the purpose, preparation, process, and structure of our conservatory auditions.

1. Why Audition? Understanding the Conservatory Commitment

What it means to train at St. Matthew’s and why auditions matter

St. Matthew’s Conservatory of Classical Dance is not a typical recreational studio—it is a training ground for serious young artists. While we welcome all dancers to our drop-in and open classes, the conservatory track is designed for students who are committed to pursuing ballet with professional focus and long-term vision.

Auditions help us determine the appropriate level placement and also serve as a gateway to merit-based scholarships, including the prestigious Sandra Hennager Scholarship, awarded to exceptional students ages 9–18. Full and partial scholarships are offered based on both ability and potential.

Auditions are scheduled in three separate age groups, but if you are unable to attend your designated time, accommodations may be made to attend a different session. All auditions are held in a 1 hr class format and may be modified to meet individual needs.

2. How to Prepare: Presentation, Attire, and Etiquette

Everything you need to know before stepping into the studio

Students should arrive in clean, professional ballet attire. If you do not yet own traditional ballet clothing, form-fitting fitness wear is acceptable.

Preferred attire for girls: Black or white leotard, black or white skirt, pink tights, pink leather ballet slippers, and a hip alignment belt.
Preferred attire for boys: Tank top and shorts or a ballet unitard, tights, and ballet slippers. Clean socks are acceptable if slippers are unavailable.
Hair should be neat—girls in a classic high bun; boys with well-groomed styles or a secure bun if hair is long.
Jewelry, bracelets, and loose accessories are not allowed.
Small personal bags may be brought into the studio and neatly placed against the wall. Larger items and unrelated belongings should be stored in the locker rooms; bring a personal lock if needed.
Students should arrive freshly groomed and in good hygiene.

3. What to Expect: Arrival and Check-In

From your first step through the door to your first step in class

Upon arrival, each student will receive a numbered tag to pin to their leotard. If you have not already completed the online registration and paid the $30 fee (If you need assistance with fee please call us at 682-427-5379), a staff member will assist you in doing so onsite. You are also welcome to bring a dance resume or brief bio, though it is not required.

Auditions are conducted in a welcoming, supportive environment. We encourage all students to arrive with a spirit of focus, kindness, and enthusiasm for the art of ballet.

4. Inside the Studio: Class Structure and Evaluation

An overview of the audition class format

Each audition class is approximately one hour in length and focuses on both technical ability and expressive movement. Class is divided as follows:

While typical conservatory ballet classes run 90 minutes, these auditions are shortened to allow us to assess students efficiently and respectfully. Each class begins with a 15–20 minute barre followed by center work.

Please know that this is not a test of perfection—it is an opportunity for us to see your current training, natural movement, and desire to grow.
Even if you are new to ballet, we welcome your interest and heart. Passion, focus, and a love for the art are just as important to us as technique.

🎥Video Auditions Accepted

Can’t attend in person?

Submit a YouTube video showing barre, center, pointe or men’s work (if applicable)

📧 Send To: mr.cole@stmatthewsdance.com

"You Treat This Art Form Like a Religion." - Maria Talchief

At St. Matthew’s Conservatory, we believe dance is more than movement—it is a response to a calling. -(Psalm 150)

Auditions are not merely an evaluation of skill, but a discernment of potential, discipline, and heart. We welcome students who feel drawn to pursue ballet as a serious vocation, and we nurture their gifts with humility, gratitude, and joy.

Whether you are already well-trained or just beginning, we see every child as a light—called to reflect beauty, purpose, and excellence. This journey is one of perseverance and faith. And we are here to walk it with you.

Train With Purpose

We educate the whole dancer to better understand their bodies and how to take care of them for the long run of their careers.

Ballet Auditions in DFW: A Call to Excellence

At St. Matthew’s Conservatory of Classical Dance LLC in Grapevine, TX, we welcome serious young artists to our ballet auditions DFW (Dallas Forth Worth area) each season. These ballet school auditions are designed for dedicated students seeking elite formation within a faith-inspired, performance-driven environment. As a Christian dance studio open to all, we cultivate artistry, discipline, and purpose. Our process mirrors professional standards, and our classical dance auditions evaluate musicality, line, and potential alongside technique.

Our Standard: Balanchine Roots, Whole-Dancer Formation

Led by Artistic Director Matthew R. Cole, our curriculum is grounded in Balanchine technique and rigorous academics. We integrate anatomy, kinesiology, injury prevention, and music theory—true dance training for professionals. During ballet school auditions, adjudicators assess placement, coordination, and coachability, identifying dancers who will flourish in our conservatory model. As a Christian dance studio, we uphold integrity, humility, and excellence, guiding students to become lights in the world.

What To Expect On Audition Day

Applicants (ages 9–18) take a structured class covering barre, center, adagio, pirouettes, petit allegro, and grand allegro. Pointe work is evaluated as appropriate. Our ballet auditions DFW area emphasize clarity of épaulement, musical precision, and stamina. We also invite solo excerpts for classical dance auditions, though they are not required.

Opportunity and Support

We champion merit and access. Qualified candidates are encouraged to inquire about Texas dance scholarships, which recognize achievement, need, and character. Families pursuing dance training for professionals will find transparent placement, clear milestones, and mentorship for company, college, and summer intensive pathways. Prospective students may also ask about additional Texas dance scholarships available through regional partners.

Begin Your Application

If you aspire to the highest standards, our ballet school auditions offer a decisive next step. Contact us today for ballet auditions in Grapevine, TX, and the wider DFW area, and join a community committed to excellence, tradition, and faith-driven purpose.