GradPRO is a programme designed to showcase the talents of young dancers who have finished their vocational training and are looking to gain the attention of Artistic Directors. Julie Bowers and Brandon Lawrence launched the programme in 2022 and it was a great success. The second annual GradPRO International Showcase was held on the 21st of May at Elmhurst in Birmingham.
The dancers audition at four locations in the UK in the winter and the 14 who were selected are then coached by professional dancers. A classical solo and a contemporary piece, which has been choreographed by the candidate, is then presented at the final in front of an illustrious panel of judges. This year the judges were Zenaida Yanowsky, Dominic Antonucci, Federico Bonelli, Gail Monaghan and Ivan Putrov.
Following the dancers’ performances before an enthusiastic audience, the judges made awarded the prizes to the winners. The London Ballet Circle prize went to Michael Maple, a 2023 of the Northern Ballet Graduate programme. A very grateful and excited Michael is going to be performing with English National Ballet at The Royal Albert Hall next month when the company dance Cinderella In The Round.
The LBC wishes Michael all the very best as he sets out on his professional career.