A new chapter in Northern Arizona’s arts community is unfolding with the official launch of Yavapai Ballet Theatre (YBT), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to high-quality classical ballet training, performance opportunities, and meaningful community engagement throughout Yavapai County.
Founded by Emily Sosangelis Tylecote, YBT represents both a personal calling and a community vision. With professional training from The Rock School, Yale Ballet Company, and Cary Ballet Conservatory, Tylecote brings a wealth of experience to Prescott — along with a clear mission: to make classical ballet accessible, collaborative, and culturally rooted right here at home.
A Vision for Collaboration, Not Competition
Yavapai Ballet Theatre was created to fill a longstanding need in the region — a central, collaborative performance organization where dancers can grow artistically while continuing to train at their home studios.
Rather than operating as a traditional dance studio, YBT functions as a nonprofit performance and education organization. The model is intentionally community-focused. By partnering with local dance schools, instructors, venues, and arts organizations, YBT allows dancers to remain connected to their primary training environment while participating in professional-level productions, workshops, and outreach initiatives.
“Our goal is to offer professional-level experiences close to home,” says Founder and Artistic Director Emily Sosangelis Tylecote. “We want to foster a culture of collaboration, inspiration, and artistic integrity while uplifting dancers and enriching our community.”
This approach strengthens the entire arts ecosystem, creating shared opportunities instead of fragmented pathways.
Raising the Bar for Classical Ballet in Yavapai County
YBT’s inaugural season promises to bring elevated artistic programming to Northern Arizona, including:
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Full-length classical productions
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Community-cast performances
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Masterclasses with guest artists
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Outreach programs for schools and underserved communities
For years, many talented dancers in Yavapai County have looked to Phoenix or out-of-state conservatories to continue their development. Yet the region is already home to exceptional instructors, passionate families, and a remarkably diverse creative community.
YBT seeks to change that narrative.
As the region’s only professional ballet theatre, the organization is establishing a professional home where dancers can envision a future in the arts without leaving the place they love. The goal is not simply to stage performances — it is to build infrastructure for long-term artistic growth.
Access for Every Dedicated Dancer
Central to YBT’s mission is accessibility.
The organization is developing a scholarship program to support talented dancers with limited financial resources. Community members and local businesses will have opportunities to sponsor individual dancers, and subsidized tuition will be available for those who commit to YBT’s training and performance track.
These initiatives reflect a belief that artistic excellence should never be limited by financial barriers.
“Classical ballet is inspirational and aspirational,” says Tylecote. “Our goal is to ensure that every dancer in Yavapai County has access to the training, mentorship, and professional experiences they deserve. We want to build something lasting — a legacy that elevates our entire region.”
Building a Cultural Legacy
Beyond technique and performance, YBT represents something larger: a commitment to strengthening Northern Arizona’s cultural identity.
By creating opportunities for collaboration between dancers, families, educators, venues, and business partners, Yavapai Ballet Theatre aims to position Yavapai County as a true cultural hub — one where the arts are not an afterthought, but a pillar of community life.
In a region known for its natural beauty, YBT adds another layer of richness: artistic excellence rooted in community.
Get Involved
Yavapai Ballet Theatre welcomes dancers, families, volunteers, donors, and community partners to be part of this new artistic home. Registration for upcoming programs and community-cast opportunities is now open.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.yavapaiballettheatre.org or email information@ybtheatre.org.
Because sometimes, building something beautiful begins right where you are.