Aubrey Daniels, a talented 10th-grade student at Dawson High School, has been selected to compete at the prestigious Prix de Lausanne in Lausanne, Switzerland, in February. This prestigious international ballet competition, often called the “Olympics of Dance,” attracts young dancers worldwide.
Daniels is among only 44 dancers worldwide to be invited to this year’s competition. Notably, she is the first Houston-area ballerina selected in nine years. The Prix de Lausanne jury, composed of esteemed professionals from leading ballet companies, will assess participants on their artistry, technique, and overall performance. Winners of the competition are awarded apprenticeships or scholarships to prestigious ballet schools and companies worldwide, including the Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theater, and the Paris Opera Ballet.
Daniels demonstrates exceptional dedication by balancing her rigorous academic schedule with intense dance training. Unlike many young dancers who are homeschooled and training in ballet during the day, Daniels maintains a full schedule with AP and pre-AP classes. “I love school, my teachers and classmates,” she said. “I want to prove I do not have to give up high school to achieve my goals in dance.” Her commitment to her studies and her passion for dance is truly inspiring. She also serves on the Pearland ISD Superintendent Student Ambassadors group, where she works alongside Dr. Larry Berger and other students to advocate for change in educational policies at the state level.
Daniels approaches this opportunity with excitement and gratitude. “I am incredibly honored to be selected for the Prix de Lausanne,” she said. “It’s a dream come true, and I’m eager to represent my school, my city, and my country on the international stage.”
