Lydia Huang performing the Paquita classical ballet variation on stage at Columbia Youth Ballet
Columbia Youth Ballet

Where Artistry Meets Community

World-class classical ballet education rooted in the Vaganova tradition. Nurturing discipline, artistry, and a lifelong love for dance since day one.

Lydia Huang performing La Esmeralda variation in classical ballet class at Columbia Youth Ballet
Our School

A Legacy of Excellence in Classical Ballet

Columbia Youth Ballet provides world-class ballet education under the artistic direction of Ahmed Nabil Khalil and Alice De Nardi Nabil. As the Official Academy of Columbia City Ballet, our curriculum follows the renowned Vaganova method — nurturing discipline, artistry, and a lifelong love for dance in every student.

From pre-ballet to pre-professional training, we develop the complete dancer — technically strong, musically expressive, and artistically confident.

Training for Every Stage

Our Programs

Pre-Ballet

An introduction to ballet through creative movement, musicality, and basic technique in a nurturing environment.

Ages 3 – 5

Beginner

Foundation in classical ballet technique, building strength, flexibility, and an understanding of ballet vocabulary.

Ages 6 – 8

Pre-Intermediate

Advancing technique with more complex combinations, developing coordination and artistic expression.

Ages 8 – 11

Intermediate

Refining classical technique with pointe work introduction, variations, and performance opportunities.

Ages 11 – 14

Advanced

Pre-professional training with intensive focus on artistry, repertoire, partnering, and stage presence.

Ages 14+

Competition Team

Selected dancers representing CYB at regional, national, and international competitions with dedicated coaching.

By Audition
Janet Huang performing the Diana and Actaeon classical ballet variation at Columbia Youth Ballet

Nurturing Discipline, Artistry & Passion

Since day one

Our Dancers on Stage

Performance & Competition

Lydia Huang performing Paquita variation in classical tutu at Columbia Youth Ballet
Columbia Youth Ballet dancers performing Black Swan pas de deux from Swan Lake Act III
Lydia Huang performing La Esmeralda variation with tambourine in ballet class
Columbia Youth Ballet ensemble performing Paquita grand pas in classical ballet production
Janet Huang performing Diana and Actaeon variation at Columbia Youth Ballet
Lydia Huang in arabesque during Paquita classical ballet variation at CYB
Columbia Youth Ballet dancers performing Sleeping Beauty pas de deux on stage
Columbia Youth Ballet competition team dancer performing solo variation at regional ballet competition
Lydia Huang performing Paquita variation in classical tutu at Columbia Youth Ballet
Columbia Youth Ballet dancers performing Black Swan pas de deux from Swan Lake Act III
Lydia Huang performing La Esmeralda variation with tambourine in ballet class
Columbia Youth Ballet ensemble performing Paquita grand pas in classical ballet production
Janet Huang performing Diana and Actaeon variation at Columbia Youth Ballet
Lydia Huang in arabesque during Paquita classical ballet variation at CYB
Columbia Youth Ballet dancers performing Sleeping Beauty pas de deux on stage
Columbia Youth Ballet competition team dancer performing solo variation at regional ballet competition
Janet Huang in développé during Diana and Actaeon variation at Columbia Youth Ballet
Lydia Huang performing Whispers of the Soul contemporary ballet piece at Columbia Youth Ballet
Columbia Youth Ballet student performing classical ballet variation on stage during annual recital
Columbia Youth Ballet ensemble performing La Esmeralda classical ballet production on stage
Columbia Youth Ballet dancers in costume performing during annual ballet production
Lydia Huang in expressive contemporary ballet movement during Whispers of the Soul at CYB
Columbia Youth Ballet advanced student performing classical ballet solo in elegant costume on stage
Columbia Youth Ballet competition team member performing award-winning variation at ballet competition
Janet Huang in développé during Diana and Actaeon variation at Columbia Youth Ballet
Lydia Huang performing Whispers of the Soul contemporary ballet piece at Columbia Youth Ballet
Columbia Youth Ballet student performing classical ballet variation on stage during annual recital
Columbia Youth Ballet ensemble performing La Esmeralda classical ballet production on stage
Columbia Youth Ballet dancers in costume performing during annual ballet production
Lydia Huang in expressive contemporary ballet movement during Whispers of the Soul at CYB
Columbia Youth Ballet advanced student performing classical ballet solo in elegant costume on stage
Columbia Youth Ballet competition team member performing award-winning variation at ballet competition

The CYB Difference

Why Choose Us

Vaganova Method

Time-honored Russian ballet pedagogy adapted for each student's level and potential.

Professional Faculty

Trained at world-class institutions including the Cairo Opera House and the Academy of Arts.

Performance Opportunities

Regular stage experience through recitals, competitions, and Columbia City Ballet productions.

2025 – 2026 Season

Begin Your Journey Today

Registration is now open for the 2025–2026 school year. Join our growing family of dancers and discover your potential.

Enroll Today
Classes available for ages 3 and up · All levels welcome