Congratulations to our Graduates!

June 10, 2016  |  Posted in Alumni

One of the most rewarding aspects of directing Metropolitan Ballet is the unique opportunity to work with a student throughout their childhood years — and each spring brings a graduation or two! I would like to recognize our graduating senior dancers Sophie Lane, Claudia Steel and Brianna Yarnoff.  Sophie studied at MBA for the past 13 years, since age 5; while Claudia and Brianna have each been with us for the past 15 years, since age 3.

These lovely young women have been role models not only on the stage, but also in their generosity to the younger students, their camaraderie in the classroom, and their ability to juggle demanding school responsibilities with the rigors of classical training and commitment to the performing company. It has been a joy to participate in their artistic growth and to share so many studio hours with such special and creative young women.

Ladies: we will miss you, and wish each of you every well-deserved success. Stay in touch, and visit often!

Sophie Lane has been accepted to The University of the Arts on a Promising Artist Award and University Grant Scholarship. She will be majoring in the visual arts and dancing. Sophie is working at the Cheltenham Center of the Arts this summer.

Claudia Steel will be attending Hofstra University this coming fall as a recipient of a significant four year Merit Scholarship Award. She will study speech and language therapy and plans to also participate in Hofstra’s dance program.

Brianna Yarnoff has been accepted to Princeton University. Entering this fall, she will pursue a degree in Neuroscience. and has been invited to participate in Princeton’s dance program.