Active Alex caught up with Preston Chamblee, 16, in between practice sessions at the International Ballet Academy (IBA) to hear his story. Preston is a strong, powerful dancer who was one of nine IBA dancers to qualify and compete in the World Ballet Competition in Orlando, Florida in May. He was also one that received an offer of full scholarship to Central Florida Ballet for summer 2012 while he was there.

How did you get into dance? When I was younger I was doing what most boys do – playing basketball and other sports. My younger sister was taking dance and I thought it looked like fun. But there were no boys in the class so I didn’t think it was something I could do. Then we attended one of her recitals and there was a boy on stage! It was like permission to try it.

And you haven’t looked back? No, I gave up basketball – I don’t think I was scholarship material – and started in jazz. I also like tap, but ballet is my favorite. I practice 5-6 hours per day, 5-6 days per week and love it.

How do you fit this much training in with school? I’m homeschooled so I have the training built into my schedule. It offers a lot of flexibility – especially when we lived in Wendell and had to commute every day. We recently relocated to Cary, though, to be closer to dance and church.

I don’t see many male dancers in our area. There are more now with IBA and Miguel Campaneria here in Cary – male dancers often have to relocate to be with appropriate instructors – it’s often better for male dancers to train with the same since emphasis is placed in different areas for males and females. Before IBA opened, Miguel held a clinic in Raleigh so I attended. It was great! In Miguel, I’ve found a trainer who truly wants what’s best for me – he takes everything into account (like our diet, personality) – and he has helped me be a man on stage and really show my strength up there. It’s the best training I’ve ever had and the reason we are in Cary.

What did you like best about the World Ballet Competition? I had done a jazz competition previously but this was my first in ballet. I performed as a soloist and also in the Pas de Deux Category (performing as a couple) with Regan Kucera, competing against professionals. I really liked working hard and then doing a great job.

What are your goals? Immediately, to get into a dance company – I plan to do college online because I still think it’s important to have an education. My major goal is to dance and become a Ballet Master, which is like an artistic director for a dance company.

What if you weren’t a dancer? I’d probably start my own business.

Active Alex expects to see great things from Preston in all aspects of his life. He recently performed at the Grand Opening of the Cary Arts Center and you can catch him next on December 16th and 17th at Thompson Hall for IBA’s winter performances.


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