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Ajkun Ballet Theatre – New York

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Ajkun Ballet Theatre 501 (c3)
Not-for-Profit Corporation

In New York City since 2001
The Ajkun Ballet Theatre is a New York City-based 501 (c3) Not for Profit Corporation that supports the philosophy and creative vision of the choreographer, dance teacher, and cultural leader Chiara Ajkun through performances, training, education, and community programs of the Ajkun Ballet Theatre.

THE COMPANY

New York City Premiere Ballet Company

Chiara Ajkun’s choreography is a work of genius, combining beautifully coordinated motion with astute interpretation of the composer’s intention.

Christopher Hyde, Portland Press Herald

Ajkun Ballet Theatre [AjkunBT] is internationally renowned for its world-class performances of riveting new choreography by artistic director and resident choreographer Chiara Ajkun. The Company’s extensive repertory spans from 19th century classics to compelling new choreography performed by its award-winning Artists in our NYC Theaters and on Tours.

The Performing season unfolds at the Alvin Ailey Theater, New York City Center, The Egg Performing Arts Center, Hostos Performing Arts Center, Whitney Theater, Linda Kelly Theater, MMAC Theater at Lincoln Center, the Dance in Italy Festival, and at Open Jar and Symphony Space on Broadway.

The Ajkun Ballet Theatre company has performed for thousands of people in theaters on four continents as well as for millions more through television and online platforms. Tours have included Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bolivia, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Television broadcasts include ABC, BBC, FOX, RAI, REDE GLOBO, and TPA. ​

Chiara Ajkun is an innovative choreographer who challenges the performers and allows them to flourish and explore their own identities. Steps that defy physics, effortlessly sewn together, characterize Ajkun’s works

Dani Brown, DanceTrain Australian Magazine

The Company roster features 35 Artists remarked for artistry, athleticism, and elegance. On Tours, our roster may increase to 52 Artists, of which 45 Dancers, and add a Live Orchestra of 65 Musicians. Our Artists regularly perform as Guests in a worldwide network of 150 partner companies named Partners in Dance.

Ajkun Ballet Theatre regards multiculturalism and diversity as enrichment to society and a necessity for human progress. Our Dancers Roster reflects these beliefs.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

The Ajkun Ballet School: Dance Education, Training Programs

I owe so much to the incredible Chiara Ajkun, but life-changing experience is the one that comes to mind

Sophia Sing, from Phoenix (AZ)

Blending theory, practice and passion, the Ajkun Ballet Theatre’s training have a dual mission: to train classical ballet dancers capable of joining the ranks of any world-class companies and to offer our local youth the joy of moving to music.

Year-round Trainee Program and Summer Intensives in the Ajkun Methodology are offered to professionally oriented students. ​​Dance Performance programs for Children & Teens and the New York Winter Festival offer the opportunity to celebrate Dance of all genres. All of our Programs are Tuition-Free or Subsidized and the AjkunBT Fund may offer additional help for living and travel costs.

THE FUND

AjkunBT Fund: Financial Aid for Dance Students and Professionals

“The AjkunBT Fund provided me with funds, expertise, and mentorship to develop my ballet education. In addition, the guidance and experiences that I obtained at Ajkun Ballet Theatre gave me the tools to cultivate relationships with Patrons of the Arts and Foundations that have supported my professional career as a dancer. As the son of a single parent in Ecuador, I would have never been able to accomplish any of it without the help of the AjkunBT Fund"

Raul Evera, Dancer

Inspired by the philosophy of artistic director and cultural leader Dr. Chiara Ajkun, The AjkunBT Fund is enthused on the United States Mutual Education and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (Fulbright-Hayes), a cornerstone of public diplomacy and an integral component of foreign policy of the Unites States of America.

The mission of the AjkunBT Fund is to increment professional opportunities by providing merit and need based financial aid to dancers, choreographers and dance companies.

The AjkunBT Fund has granted millions of dollars to Dance Students, Professional Dancers to pursue dance education and has supported Choreographers and Dance Companies in producing or presenting new creations in New York. At press time, Artists from 150 Countries have benefited from our grants.

Extraordinary Leadership

Ajkun Ballet Theatre is supported by the exceptional leaders that govern, manage and carry out the daily operation of Ajkun Ballet Theatre, 125 people in 5 continents with the shared mission to share and celebrate the excellence of Chiara Ajkun’s creative vision and 150 professional dance organizations have embraced Chiara's dream to open the avenues of opportunities and employment for our talented Youth. 

​Learn more about The Board of Directors, The Board of Trustees, The Board of Artistic Advisors, Administrative Division, Artistic Division, Donors Division, Press & Communication Division, Production Division, Well Being Unit, Housing Division,  Audience Outreach, Charitable Performance Outreach.

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