The Youth America Grand Prix, the world’s largest ballet scholarship organization, hosted its 2026 Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Gala at the David H. Koch Theater in New York City on April 16. The evening brought together an extraordinary mix of global ballet talent, cultural leaders, and distinguished guests in celebration of artistic excellence and the future of dance.
Hosted by Misty Copeland and Tamar Greene, the gala honored Rebecca Hessel Cohen, Founder and Creative Director of LoveShackFancy, and Melanie Hamrick, choreographer, author, and former American Ballet Theatre dancer. Copeland reflected on her long-standing relationship with the organization, emphasizing the importance of its mission to expand access and opportunity in dance. Greene added a powerful musical moment, performing a selection from Hamilton that underscored the evening’s inspirational tone.
A WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCE SHOWCASE
The program, curated by Founder and Artistic Director Larissa Saveliev, featured a lineup of internationally acclaimed dancers. Performances included the New York debut of Nicoletta Manni and Timofej Andrijashenko of La Scala Ballet, presenting a pas de deux from Caravaggio, alongside the classical Grand Pas Classique. Polina Semionova returned to the YAGP stage with a pas de deux from Manon, joined by Martin ten Kortenaar, and later performed a contemporary interpretation set to The Dying Swan.
Christine Shevchenko, Reece Clarke, and Roman Mejia delivered a powerful rendition of Le Corsaire, while Shevchenko and Calvin Royal III performed Rainbow, an original choreography by Hamrick set to music by The Rolling Stones. The costumes, designed by LoveShackFancy, featured flowing chiffon and lace elements that enhanced the visual storytelling of the performance.
The evening also included premieres of works by Sharon Eyal and Itzik Galili. In keeping with tradition, 120 YAGP finalists joined the stage for a closing Piece d’Occasion, symbolizing the organization’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers.
AN IMMERSIVE DINNER EXPERIENCE
Following the performance, more than 300 guests gathered in the Promenade at the David H. Koch Theater for an elegant dinner. The space was transformed with a signature pink aesthetic by LoveShackFancy, creating a visually striking environment. Guests were treated to a unique performance as ballerinas appeared on surrounding balconies, bringing movement and artistry into every corner of the venue.
Marcella Guarino Hymowitz, the Gala Creative Chair, led the evening, supported by an extensive group of co-chairs and board members. The dinner reflected both grandeur and purpose, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to creating transformative cultural experiences.
A GATHERING OF CULTURAL AND SOCIAL LEADERS
The gala welcomed an impressive guest list that included artists, philanthropists, and public figures such as F. Murray Abraham, Brooke Adams, Skylar Brandt, Chelsea Clinton, Mara Hoffman, Dylan Lauren, Tony Shalhoub, and many others. Their presence highlighted the broad cultural significance of the event and the widespread support for YAGP’s mission.
In addition to the main program, guests participated in the annual Pointe Project auction, featuring custom-designed pointe shoes by leading designers including Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, and LoveShackFancy. Proceeds from the auction directly support young dancers pursuing professional careers.
EXPANDING ACCESS TO THE ARTS
A defining element of the evening was its commitment to accessibility. In line with its mission, YAGP donated 1,000 tickets to students from organizations such as the Harlem School for the Arts, Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education, and The Misty Copeland Foundation. This initiative ensures that young audiences can experience world-class ballet regardless of financial or cultural barriers.
Rebecca Hessel Cohen emphasized the importance of this work, noting that YAGP provides real opportunities, mentorship, and a clear path forward for young dancers. The organization continues to play a vital role in both developing talent and cultivating future audiences.
LOOKING AHEAD TO THE GLOBAL STAGE
The celebration extends beyond a single evening. On April 18, the International Dance School Festival will showcase elite students from leading institutions worldwide, including the Royal Ballet School, Beijing Dance Academy, and San Francisco Ballet School.
The 2026 YAGP Season Finals will take place in Houston from May 10 to May 18. Approximately 2,000 dancers, selected from over 15,000 participants globally, will compete for scholarships and professional opportunities. The event will culminate in a grand closing gala featuring top dancers from leading ballet companies.
Through events like this, Youth America Grand Prix continues to shape the future of ballet by connecting today’s leading artists with the rising stars of tomorrow, ensuring that the art form remains vibrant, inclusive, and globally relevant.
