The Prix de Lausanne is an internationally renowned ballet competition held annually in Lausanne, Switzerland. Established in 1973 by Philippe and Elvire Braunschweig, the competition aims to discover and promote exceptional young ballet talent from around the world. Since then, it has become one of the most prestigious events in the world of ballet, attracting aspiring dancers, renowned choreographers and directors of renowned ballet companies.
The Prix de Lausanne offers a platform for young dancers between the ages of 15 and 18 to showcase their skills and compete for scholarships and apprenticeships offered by leading ballet companies and schools. The competition focuses on the technique and art of classical ballet, but also includes elements of contemporary dance in its repertoire.
During the competition, entrants undergo a rigorous selection process, which includes a series of classes and performances. They are judged by a panel of esteemed judges made up of ballet professionals and experts. The finalists then perform at a grand gala, where they get the chance to showcase their talents to a wider audience.
Beyond the competition, the Prix de Lausanne offers valuable training and networking opportunities through its accompanying workshops and seminars. It plays a vital role in shaping the future of ballet by nurturing young talent and fostering international collaboration within the ballet community.
History of Prix de Lausanne :
The Prix de Lausanne is an internationally renowned ballet competition held annually in Lausanne, Switzerland. It was founded in 1973 by Philippe and Elvire Braunschweig, with the aim of discovering and promoting young ballet talents from around the world. Since then, the competition has become one of the most prestigious and influential events in the world of ballet.
The idea for the Prix de Lausanne originated from Philippe Braunschweig’s own experience as a dancer. He wanted to create a platform where talented young dancers could showcase their skills and gain exposure to professional ballet companies. Lausanne, Switzerland was chosen as the venue for the competition due to its location in the center of Europe and its proximity to major ballet companies and schools.
The first edition of the Prix de Lausanne took place in 1973 and attracted 71 participants from 23 countries. The competition quickly gained recognition and support from renowned ballet schools and companies. The jury panel was made up of leading figures from the world of ballet, including directors of major companies and renowned dancers.
Over the years, the Prix de Lausanne has grown in size and reputation. It has become an important springboard for young dancers, providing them with scholarships, internships, and contracts with prestigious ballet companies. Many previous winners and competition participants have had successful professional careers in the world of ballet.
The competition format includes classical and contemporary dance performances, as well as variations on the classical ballet repertoire. Dancers are judged on their technical skills, artistic expression, musicality, and potential for a professional career. The jury selects a limited number of finalists who perform in the final round, after which the winners are announced and awarded scholarships and career opportunities.
In addition to competition, the Prix de Lausanne offers other activities and events, including master classes, workshops, and seminars led by renowned dance professionals. These activities provide additional learning opportunities for the participants and contribute to the overall educational aspect of the competition.
The Prix de Lausanne has played an important role in shaping the careers of numerous ballet dancers and has become an essential event in the world of ballet. It continues to attract young talent from around the world and contributes to the development and promotion of ballet as an art form.
Prix de Lausanne Competition :
The Prix de Lausanne is an international ballet competition that takes place annually in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is one of the most prestigious competitions for young ballet dancers, giving them the chance to showcase their talent and potentially win scholarships to renowned ballet schools and companies around the world.
Jury:
The competition has a distinguished international jury made up of renowned professionals from the world of ballet. Jury members often include ballet directors and teachers from prestigious ballet companies, as well as former professional dancers. They are in charge of evaluating and assessing the performance of the candidates.
Evaluation:
Candidates for the Prix de Lausanne are evaluated through a rigorous process that involves several rounds. Evaluation criteria typically include technical proficiency, artistry, musicianship, physicality, and growth potential. Each candidate interprets a classical ballet variation and a contemporary piece, which are chosen by the jury. Performances are judged based on technique, interpretation, expression, and general artistic qualities.
Stages:
The competition consists of several stages:
- Registration: Dancers interested in participating in the Prix de Lausanne must submit an application and fulfill the eligibility requirements.
- Preselection: Based on the submitted applications, the jury selects a limited number of candidates to participate in the competition. These candidates are invited to attend the preselection round, which is held in various locations worldwide.
- Selection: From the preselection round, a smaller group of candidates is chosen to compete in the final rounds of the competition held in Lausanne. These candidates are typically between the ages of 15 and 18.
- Classes: The selected candidates participate in a week-long intensive training program. They attend daily ballet classes, variations workshops, and rehearsals for the final performances.
- Semifinals: The semifinals are held in front of the jury and a live audience. Each candidate performs a classical ballet variation and a contemporary piece. Based on their performances, a group of finalists is selected to proceed to the final round.
- Finals: The finalists perform once again, showcasing their talent and artistry. They perform classical and contemporary variations, as well as a pas de deux with a professional partner. The jury evaluates their performances and determines the winners.
- Awards: At the end of the competition, the jury announces the winners. Prizes typically include scholarships to renowned ballet schools and companies, apprenticeships, and other professional opportunities in the ballet world.
Prix de Lausanne Prizes :
The prizes offered by the Prix de Lausanne competition include:
Prix de Lausanne Scholarship: This scholarship provides one year of free tuition and a total amount of CHF 16,000, given in ten monthly installments, to cover living expenses during the winner’s year of studies.
Prix de Lausanne Apprentice Scholarship: Awardees over 17 years old receive a one-year apprentice scholarship. Additionally, they are given CHF 16,000 in ten monthly installments for living expenses.
Contemporary Dance Prize: This prize includes a contemporary dance course at one of the partnering institutions. It covers both travel and living expenses associated with the course.
Best Swiss Candidate Prize: The best finalist who resides in Switzerland and has undergone at least three years of training in Switzerland before the competition receives a cash prize of CHF 2,500.
In addition to the above prizes, all finalists are offered free summer courses; however, the costs for travel and accommodation are not covered. Finalists also receive a diploma and a medal. If a finalist does not win any other prize, they receive a consolation cash prize of CHF 1,000.