Nolte Academy 2024-25 Accolades

Nolte Academy Named Outstanding School at Youth America Grand Prix in Kansas City and Outstanding Studio at the Universal Ballet Competition in Iowa City 
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Leslie Nolte Honored as YAGP Outstanding Choreographer in Chicago

CORALVILLE, IA  – Nolte Academy, a premier performing arts school based in Coralville, Iowa, has been recognized with the prestigious Outstanding School Award at the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) regional competition in Kansas City. This honor distinguishes Nolte Academy as a leader in dance education and performance excellence, affirming its commitment to developing the next generation of elite dancers. YAGP director Larissa Saveliev stated, “The Jury was very impressed with the overall level, quality, and versatility of the dancers from Nolte Academy.

In addition to this remarkable achievement, Nolte Academy’s founder and artistic director, Leslie Nolte, was named one of only two Outstanding Choreographers at the YAGP regional competition in Chicago this past January. This accolade highlights her exceptional talent in crafting compelling and innovative choreography that resonates with audiences and judges alike. She has previously received this recognition in 2021 and 2023. 

The Youth America Grand Prix is the world’s largest and most prestigious ballet scholarship competition, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to advance their training and careers. Nolte Academy’s continued success at YAGP reinforces its standing as a premier institution for aspiring dancers.  

On March 23, Nolte Academy also received the Outstanding Studio Award from the Universal Ballet Competition hosted at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City.  Amongst some of the top studios in the midwest Nolte Academy consistently placed in the top scores across all age groups.  UBC is a premiere competition founded by directors from the Joffrey Ballet and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.  

“We are incredibly proud of our dancers for this hard earned recognition,” said Leslie Nolte. “The Outstanding School and Studio Awards at these prestigious competitions reflects the dedication and artistry of our entire faculty and shows the kind of talent that our community produces.”