MADISON – For its prestigious Summer Intensive program, School of Nashville Ballet accepted nine students from The Dance Company.

The Madison dancers spent part of their summer developing their ballet technique and performance skills in this accelerated study, public relations manager Lauren McKirgan said.

Madison dancers who qualified are Ava Baker, Liberty Middle School; Samantha Baker, Columbia Elementary School; Veronika Croan, Discovery Middle School; Hannah Lawley, Discovery; Emma Clare Odom, Liberty; Claire O’Neal, Bob Jones High School; Abby Rose Percy, St. John the Baptist Catholic School; Isabella Ross; and Lacy Smith, Liberty.

“This year’s Summer Intensive included more than 300 students from 33 states across the country, as well international students from Canada and New Zealand,” McKirgan said. “Students had the chance to train with Nashville Ballet’s internationally recognized teachers and guest faculty, as well as be seen by Nashville Ballet Artistic Director and CEO Paul Vasterling.”

“Summer Intensive allows young dancers to dedicate themselves exclusively to growing their skills during a short, focused amount of time, often in a new environment away from home,” Nick Mullikin said. Mullkin is Director of School of Nashville Ballet, said.

Students dance approximately 40 hours a week in diverse styles to improve technique and artistry significantly. Summer Intensive sessions for ages 11 and older ranged from one to five weeks. Students could opt to stay at nearby Belmont University in suite-style apartments, offering them a taste of independent living (some for the first time).

“Students attend Summer Intensive to gain the competitive edge in their future training and careers, but what they oftentimes don’t realize is the life skills they’re gaining at the same time,” Mullikin said. “They are becoming more independent, developing incredible work ethic and becoming more confident both inside and outside the studio. They leave growing not only as dancers, but also as people.”

Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Noted choreographers develop Nashville Ballet’s varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works. In addition, Vasterling shares his original work.

For more information, visit nashvilleballet.com/siinfo.