CATALYST is a partnership program between Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre (TMBT) and Dance Canvas. The program strives to elevate the beauty, power, and reach of the ballet art form by supporting Black dance students as they advance towards professional ballet careers. 

Black dancers are historically underrepresented in professional ballet companies. This lack of representation is the result of systemic barriers to access, and harms not only individual dancers, but the entire profession, by limiting ballet’s talent pool and potential audience. To counter this, CATALYST provides talented Black dance students with high-level technical training, mentorship, and career development - all on full scholarship.

Program participants take part in rigorous technical ballet training at the Terminus Ballet School that is integrated in current curriculum and receive career planning and professional and personal mentorship through Dance Canvas. This holistic combination of coursework, mentorship, and financial support is vital to eliminate barriers. It offers essential empowerment to young Black ballet dancers as they move forward towards professional ballet careers, and onto professional stages.

If you would like to be considered for the 23-24 school year, please fill out our placement request form below.

If you would like to be considered for the 24-25 school year, please audition for our summer intensives. In addition, dancers will need to fill out the Catalyst application form. Please contact c.welker@terminus-mbt.com to request a copy.