Louisville Ballet dancers will soon have the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Arts Administration while continuing their professional training, thanks to a recent partnership between the ballet and Bellarmine University announced Monday.
The program, which launches in August, is designed for members of the Louisville Ballet’s Studio Company, professional company, and staff. It offers asynchronous online coursework alongside intensive rehearsals, performances, and community outreach, according to a joint statement from the university and the ballet.
Louisville Ballet Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp described the partnership as “a transformational moment for dancer-centered education.” He added that the program “removes traditional barriers between professional training and higher education, empowering dancers to fully commit to their artistic growth while gaining the academic foundation and leadership skills that support long, meaningful careers, both on and off the stage.”
Bellarmine University and Louisville Ballet are offering the Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration: Dance, a degree specifically tailored for pre-professional and professional dancers. Louisville Ballet is among a select few classical ballet companies nationwide to partner with a university on a degree program of this depth and scope.
The program will utilize a cohort model, with each student assigned two dedicated advisors – one from Bellarmine University and one from Louisville Ballet – to provide coordinated academic and professional support throughout their studies.
The Louisville Ballet Studio Company offers two paths for dancers: a degree-track in partnership with Bellarmine University, offering a B.A. In Arts Administration (Dance concentration), and a traditional, non-degree track. All Studio Company dancers receive the same high-quality training and performance opportunities regardless of which track they choose.
Auditions for the Studio Company are currently being held, with options to audition on March 1, at any NSIA audition, or through video submission.
