Rock School students shine at YAGP regionals

January 9 through 11 marked the Philadelphia regional semifinals of Youth America Grand Prix, the largest ballet competition in the world. The Rock School was named Outstanding School for an unprecedented fourth year in a row, and Rock School students placed in every category in the junior and senior divisions.

In Friday's junior competition, Michaela DePrince took top honors as winner of the Youth Grand Prix title. Rock School students swept the junior contemporary category, with Esteban Hernandez in first, Ka'imi Cambern in second and Oliver Oguma in third. Also in the top 12 contemporary were Jackie Callahan and Lauren Carfolite. In the junior classical category, Esteban won first place while Ka'imi took second. Lauren and Oliver both landed top-12 positions alongside Alexandra Gallo.

In Saturday's senior competition, Rock School students shone in the classical category. Jeanette Kakareka placed second in the women's classical competition, while Gabe Shayer, Gal Mahazari and Yukihiro Tamura took first, second and third in men's classical. In senior contemporary, Jeanette Kakareka and Ashley Bastzo placed in the top 12.

In ensembles, Tory Muth and Gabe Shayer won third place for their Pas de Deux from Harliquenade.

Congratulations to everyone who competed! Twelve Rock dancers will compete in the Youth America Grand Prix international finals in New York City from April 17-21.