Viengsay Valdés Joins the Jury of the Prix de Lausanne

Prima ballerina and general director of the National Ballet of Cuba, Viengsay Valdés, will serve as a jury member at the prestigious Prix de Lausanne, an international ballet competition set to take place from February 2 to 9 this year.

The jury will be chaired by Laurent Hilaire, director of the Bavarian State Ballet, with Paola Cantalupo, artistic and pedagogical director of the Rosella Hightower National Superior Dance School, serving as vice president.

Also joining the panel are renowned figures from the dance world, including Leanne Benjamin, Skylar Campbell, Frédéric Olivieri, Laetitia Pujol, Wim Vanlessen, and Joy Womack.

Celebrated choreographer John Neumeier has praised the Prix de Lausanne, stating:

“The competition offers a remarkably balanced blend of artistic ideals and practical support for the development of young dancers’ careers, through the many scholarships awarded each year. However, what truly makes the Prix de Lausanne a unique experience is its dedication to fostering the potential of today’s virtuosity.”

He further emphasized:

“The Prix has a responsibility to support individual talent and encourage young dancers to reflect on the human condition, striving for noble aspirations and exploring the possibilities of humanity in their craft. This was the guiding principle of Elvire and Philippe Braunschweig when they founded the competition more than fifty years ago.”

Photo: Viengsay Valdés in Giselle. Photographer: Jacques Moatti
Source: Press Department, National Ballet of Cuba.

Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez