Auditions Now Open for Perth Youth Ballet’s 2026 Production, PRETENCE/ COPPELIA
Perth Youth Ballet is calling Perth’s young aspiring dancers, female and male aged 8–21, to audition for our 2026 season of PRETENCE / COPPÉLIA. This bold reimagining of the iconic ballet explores the tension between appearance and reality, contrasting the flawless beauty of dolls with the real emotions, individuality and humanity beneath the surface.
This powerful production blends classical and contemporary movement, giving young performers the chance to explore emotion, storytelling, technique and connection in a professional yet nurturing environment.
Learn, grow and be inspired by industry leaders
Under the artistic leadership of Producer & Artistic Director Leanna Del Basso, dancers will work closely with PYB’s 2026 leadership team, guest choreographers and Student Mentor/Artistic Advisors. Together, they will guide performers through a high-calibre pre-professional experience designed to elevate confidence, technique, creativity and performance maturity.
Key Dates
Auditions: Now open
Rehearsals commence late January 2026
3-day intensive: 21st, 22nd & 23rd January
Ongoing Sunday rehearsals begin: 1st February
Performance date: 17th April 2026
Performance venue: To be announced
Full rehearsal schedules are provided to cast members following auditions.
Who should audition?
Perth Youth Ballet welcomes dancers who are:
✔ Passionate about dance and performance
✔ Eager to learn from industry professionals
✔ Ready to challenge themselves and shine on stage
✔ Searching for meaningful performance opportunities outside a traditional studio environment
✔ Excited to be part of a supportive and high-performing cast culture
Whether aspiring to a professional dance career or seeking a transformative performance experience, this production offers an unforgettable journey.
About the production, PRETENCE / COPPÉLIA
Set in a world obsessed with perfection and appearances, this original ballet reimagines Coppélia through a contemporary lens, exploring the tension between artificial beauty and authentic humanity. At its heart is Swanhilda, a quietly defiant young woman who challenges conformity and reveals the power of individuality and truth.
A story of curiosity, courage and self-expression, PRETENCE / COPPÉLIA offers dancers rich emotional and technical opportunity, exploring:
✨ Precision and expressive freedom
✨ Identity, individuality and inner strength
✨ Movement as character-driven storytelling
Join the cast
If you’re ready to grow, challenge yourself and learn from industry leaders while performing in a professional production, this is your moment.
🔗 Audition applications are now open
Places are limited for both junior and senior cast members.
For any questions or assistance with auditions, please contact Perth Youth Ballet via email info@perthyouthballet.com
We can’t wait to see Perth’s next generation of dancers step into the spotlight.