Who Should Apply

Dancers ages 11–17 with:

• Foundational classical ballet training

• Curiosity about contemporary dance

• Commitment to consistent training and rehearsals

• An interest in using dance to connect with others

We welcome dancers from a wide range of backgrounds and recognize that artistic potential can develop through many different training pathways.

The Program

Selected dancers participate in weekly training and mentorship with Juilliard graduate and Carmel Dance Festival Artistic Director Lillian Barbeito throughout the fall–spring season.

Participants:

• Strengthen their ballet and contemporary technique

• Develop solos and ensemble repertory

• Receive individualized artistic mentorship

• Build confidence, professionalism, and performance experience

• Learn to share their artistry with sensitivity and respect

• Perform at partner hospitals, residential-care communities, and community spaces

Participation is offered on full scholarship so that financial circumstances do not prevent talented and committed young dancers from taking part.

Dance in Community

Terpsichore dancers present short, engaging performances in lobbies, common areas, courtyards, and—when appropriate and welcomed—at the bedside.

Depending on the setting, a visit may include:

• Solo and ensemble performances

• Brief introductions to the dances

• Optional guided movement that participants can enjoy seated or standing

• Informal conversation and connection between dancers and community members

Every visit is arranged in collaboration with facility staff and adapted to the needs, abilities, privacy, and comfort of the people being served. Patients, residents, and families always choose whether they wish to participate.

The Impact

For Patients, Residents, Families, and Staff

Live dance can offer a welcome moment of beauty, joy, movement, and connection—especially for people navigating illness, isolation, uncertainty, or limited access to traditional theater experiences. Rather than simply performing for community members, Terpsichore dancers invite them into a shared experience through conversation and optional movement.

For Young Dancers

Participants receive full-scholarship training and mentorship while developing:

• Artistic and technical growth

• Confidence and professionalism

• Performance experience

• Empathy and attentive presence

• An understanding of how dance can create connection beyond the stage

There is no tuition cost to participating families.

Commitment

The Terpsichore Project is a season-long program. Accepted dancers are expected to:

• Attend weekly training and rehearsals

• Prepare independently when needed

• Participate in scheduled community performances

• Approach partner communities with maturity, sensitivity, and respect

Rehearsal dates, locations, performance expectations, and family responsibilities will be provided before enrollment is finalized. Performances will take place throughout the 2026–2027 school year.

Video Audition

To be considered, complete the video-audition registration form by clicking below.

Applications received by August 23rd, 2026, will receive priority consideration. If space remains following the initial review, additional applications may be considered throughout the season.

Audition materials are kept private and used solely for applicant evaluation.

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About the Director

The Terpsichore Project is directed by Lillian Barbeito, a Juilliard graduate, dance artist, educator, and co-founder of Carmel Dance Festival and BODYTRAFFIC. She also serves as Artistic Director of Ballare Carmel. Throughout more than 30 years in dance, Lillian has mentored young artists who have continued their training at institutions including The Juilliard School, Boston Conservatory, Chapman University, USC, Arizona State University, UCLA, and Stanford University, and who have performed with organizations including American Ballet Theatre, Houston Ballet, Louisville Ballet, Jacob Jonas The Company, and Ballare Carmel. Through Terpsichore, Lillian combines rigorous artistic mentorship with a belief that dance can foster empathy, confidence, and meaningful connection.

Why This Project Exists

“I started this project in honor of my grandmother, Betty Myrum, who lived with dementia before passing away. During her hospice care, she could have benefited from the companionship and connection this initiative offers. Terpsichore brings that connection to others facing illness, isolation, or the end of life—and teaches young dancers what it means to place their artistry in service to others.”

— Lillian Barbeito, Founder and Artistic Director