The Prix de Lausanne has announced the 81 exceptional young dancers who will compete in its 2026 edition, following an intensive video selection process adjudicated by a panel of nine distinguished international dance professionals. This year’s selection drew 444 applicants from 43 countries, each submitting videos that demonstrated not only technical excellence but also artistry, maturity and promise.
Two dancers from Australasia have earned coveted places among the finalists: Jessica Cooper from Classical Coaching Australia and Tamison Soppet from Convergence Dance Studios in New Zealand. Both have been placed in Group A (girls), representing their countries on one of the world’s most influential stages for emerging ballet talent.
This year’s cohort represents 15 countries from around the world. South Korea leads with 19 selected candidates, followed by China with 17, Japan with 12 and the United States with 11. Portugal, Brazil and France also feature strongly, while Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Hungary, Lithuania, Mexico, Romania, Poland, Belgium, Colombia and Argentina round out the global mix.
The Prix de Lausanne, now in its 53rd year, has long been regarded as a vital bridge between training and professional life. Many past participants have gone on to major careers with The Royal Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, The Australian Ballet and other world-renowned companies.
“The video selection stage is always an exciting and moving moment. What a thrill to discover all these young dancers from so many countries,” said Artistic and Executive Director Kathryn Bradney. “I am very proud to present the highly talented dancers selected for the next competition, whom we will support with all our care and professionalism over the coming months.”
The Prix de Lausanne 2026 will take place from 1 to 8 February at the Beaulieu Theatre in Lausanne, Switzerland.