About Us

We are so much more than ballet…

…but that is the heart of what we do!

Mission
The USA International Ballet Competition provides an opportunity for dancers to test themselves against recognized international standards of dance excellence; to showcase their technical skill and artistic talent; to provide a forum for communication and intercultural exchange; and to educate, enlighten and develop future artists and audience support for the art of dance.

The USA International Ballet Competition
Founded in 1978, the USA IBC is one of the oldest competitions sanctioned by International Theatre Institute of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) International Dance Committee.  In 1982, the United States Congress passed a Joint Resolution designating Jackson, MS, as the official home of the USA International Ballet Competition which is held every four years.  Read more. 

Educational Programs
The USA IBC is committed to educating and enlightening the public about dance and developing future artists.  During the USA International Ballet Competition we are proud to offer the two-week long USA IBC Dance School for dancers ages 12 and up; an artist in residence program featuring a master class, lecture demonstration and company performance; and Teacher Training.  During the IBC Reunion Gala weekend, we offer Master Classes taught by a guest dance company.  Each year, we facilitate CityDance, which is the USA IBC’s free after-school dance program for Jackson Public School District students who are 7 to 12 years-old.

Workforce Development/Job Creation
During the two-week “olympic-style” USA IBC dancers vie for medals, cash awards, scholarships, and contracts. Dance company directors from all over the world visit Jackson to view and interview tomorrow’s ballet stars. Read more.

Economic Development & Tourism
In 2010, during the two-week USA IBC over 34,000 people visited Jackson, MS, and spent over $10M on tourism.  Read more.

Reunion Performances
For one night only, some of the ballet world’s most recognized stars who are former USA IBC medal winners return to the Jackson, MS, USA IBC stage.  Read more.

Tunes, Tutus, & Turning Wheels
Tunes, Tutus & Turning Wheels is an exciting concert and dance series highlighting artistic expressions of those with and without disabilities. Read more.

Donate to or Volunteer with the USA IBC
Donors and volunteers make our wheels go ‘round! Click here to find out more about how you can get involved.