Ballet Championships of America Advisory Board
Jurors and Educators
About Us
"What truly sets BCA apart is the emphasis on education and growth. In addition to the competition, my daughter had access to master classes as well as classical and contemporary coaching from experienced, inspiring and incredibly knowledgeable coaches. These sessions not only refined her technique and opened her mind to different styles of contemporary, but also helped her put that polish on her variations."
Evelyn Daniels - Adage Ballet Academy
2025/2026 BCA Exclusive Features
One on One coaching with our juror/educators prior to the competition. This personalized session offers dancers a valuable opportunity to be seen and supported ahead of taking the stage, calming nerves, building confidence, and setting the focus exactly where it belongs: center stage!
NEW Solo Categories added for the 2026 Season!
"Artistic Performance Award" - included entry for all registered soloists.
Your all-inclusive BCA registration covers it all! Every performance photo and video, a digital program of the Championship event, and unlimited access to all sessions. Plus, dancers receive exclusive live audio commentary from our jury, offering professional insights and encouragement that turn every performance into an educational experience.
Specialized Master Class series featuring our ground breaking Pas de Deux technique class and and a complementary audition for Joffrey Ballet Summer Intensives.
What Makes BCA Different
We are not just a competition. We are a curated experience designed to grow dancers from the inside out.
Here’s how we do it:
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World-Class Juror-Educators
Our adjudicators are accomplished artists and mentors who provide real-time, recorded feedback to support each dancer’s progress. -
Focused on Technique + Artistry
We prioritize ballet’s foundational elements while nurturing expressive, storytelling-driven performance. -
One-on-One Coaching Opportunities
Dancers receive personal guidance before taking the stage, reducing anxiety and elevating confidence.
Our Educational Commitment
Every BCA event is a chance to learn, improve, and evolve. We offer:
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Technique-focused masterclasses
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In-depth feedback overlays on performance videos
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Scholarships and mentorship opportunities
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A culture that celebrates both effort and achievement
Our goal is to create a safe, inspiring space where dancers can push boundaries, refine their craft, and find their artistic voice.
Be Part of Something Bigger
At BCA, you're not just competing, you're becoming.
Join a national community of passionate dancers, educators, and visionaries who believe that ballet is a journey worth investing in. We invite you to experience a competition that values growth, honors tradition, and celebrates the future of ballet.
This is BCA. Feel Seen and Supported.
Matthew Diaz-Caldwell
Co-Owner/Founder
Matthew Diaz-Caldwell, a visionary leader in the dance industry, brings over two decades of unparalleled expertise and dedication to his role as Co-Owner and Founder of Ballet Championships of America (BCA). With a career spanning 25 years, Matthew has left an indelible mark on the dance world, shaping the landscape of artistic expression and fostering the growth of countless young talented dancers.
Matthew's journey in the dance industry began over two decades ago, marked by a passion for cultivating creativity and nurturing the next generation of dancers. His steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation has been the driving force behind his previous role as the COO at Kids Artistic Revue (KAR), a position he held with distinction. Matthew’s past experience will play a pivotal role in the strategic development and execution of initiatives that will propel BCA to the forefront of the dance competition scene. His visionary leadership has been instrumental in shaping the reputation for excellence, creating a platform for dancers to showcase their skills at a competitive level.
Beyond his operational responsibilities, Matthew has been a passionate advocate for the arts, recognizing the transformative power of dance in the lives of young performers. His unwavering support for artistic expression has contributed to Ballet Championships of America’s mission of fostering creativity, self-discovery, and confidence in every participant.
Matthew has always been a driving force behind the introduction of innovative programs and features that are elevating BCA to new heights. His forward-thinking approach has led to the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships, ensuring that BCA remains at the forefront of the dance industry.
His impact continues to extend beyond the daily operational responsibilities of co owning BCA. Known for his mentorship and guidance, he has inspired countless dancers, choreographers, and industry professionals in the US and abroad, to reach their full potential. His dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community within the dance world has left an enduring impact.
Ward Billeisen
Co-Owner/Founder
For more than 25 years, Ward Billeisen has dedicated his life to the stage. Not only through acclaimed work as an associatte director and choreographer, but most importantly as an educator and mentor committed to the growth of young dancers and their families. His creative contributions span national tours, regional theaters, and Broadway productions, where his distinctive style blends tradition with innovation, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and performers alike.
But it’s behind the scenes, where his heart working closely with students and their families, where Ward’s heart truly shines. He believes that dance is more than performance; it’s a path to self-confidence, discipline, and personal discovery. His beliefs are not just about technique, but about helping young dancers find their voice, celebrate their individuality, and carry themselves with pride both on and off stage.
Ward’s approach to teaching reflects a deep respect for the role families play in a dancer’s journey. He sees every rehearsal and coaching session as an opportunity to build community and provide support, not just for the dancer, but for the parents and caregivers walking alongside them.
As part of Ballet Championships of America,
Ward brings this passion and purpose to every event, helping create a space where education, artistry, and care for the whole dancer come first. Through his leadership, BCA continues to grow as a platform where young performers are seen, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.