Artcore: Ballet West II at Highland Park Community Church

Ballet West II has established a reputation as an elite touring ensemble, with the versatility to perform a broad spectrum of dance in venues of all sizes across the country.

The two-year program provides unique training and performing opportunities for 12 young dancers, offering them personalized attention and the opportunity to enter a world-class company.

Directed by Calvin Kitten, with help from Associate Director, Peggy Dolkas, the team has a knowledge of ballet and ballet training that is unparalleled in the industry. Kitten, a 19-year veteran of The Joffrey Ballet, has two Ruth Page Awards, and has been featured on the cover of Dance Magazine. In 2001, he was named one of the “25 Dancers to Watch.” Dolkas was a Ballet West Soloist, and was named “Best Choreographer” from the Salt Lake Weekly Art Awards. She co-choreographed The Little Mermaid in 2012, Aladdin in 2013, and Beauty and the Beast in 2015 for Ballet West’s Family Series. Together, Kitten and Dolkas have elevated Ballet West II’s talented dancers to new heights.

Besides frequently presenting to sold-out audiences across the United States, Ballet West II also serves as a major component for Ballet West’s Outreach and Education initiatives. Last year alone, the various programs had the troupe performing in front of over 110,000 educators and students in Utah. For members of Ballet West II, this is an unprecedented opportunity to gain experience alongside the professional company, while helping to further Ballet West’s commitment to community education and outreach.