The French Academy of Performing Arts proudly announces that three of its young dancers have been accepted into multiple summer intensive programs with the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet School—a historic achievement for the U.S. Virgin Islands and a testament to the territory’s rising excellence in the performing arts.
With over 60 years of global impact, the Joffrey Ballet School is recognized as one of the most prestigious dance institutions in the world, known for its rigorous pre-professional training and its pioneering role in shaping American dance through both classical and innovative contemporary techniques. Its mission—advancing dance through artistic excellence, innovation, and arts education—aligns closely with the vision of FAPA USVI.
Rising Stars from the Virgin Islands – FAPA Power of Purple Movement
The following FAPA students, beginning as young as age 8, have earned acceptance into multiple Joffrey Ballet School programs:
• Dior James (Age 8)
• Nubia Richards (Age 9)
• Azalea Pearsall (Age 10)
Each student successfully completed a competitive audition process and has been invited to attend a variety of prestigious national and international summer intensives, including:
• NYC Ballet Intensive
• JoffreyRED Program
• Joffrey San Francisco
• Joffrey Colorado
• Joffrey South Ballet
• Joffrey Miami Ballet
• Joffrey Las Vegas Ballet
• Joffrey Dallas
• Joffrey West
• Joffrey Midwest
• Joffrey Akron
• Joffrey Italy
• NYC Musical Theater Intensive
Ballet at the Core of Excellence
At the heart of FAPA’s training is classical ballet, the foundational discipline that shapes strength, technique, posture, and artistry. All three students are full-time FAPA dancers, committed to a comprehensive training schedule that reflects the standards of preprofessional programs. Attending Monday – Saturday.
Each student participates in regular ballet classes while also training across multiple genres, including:
• Ballet
• Modern / Contemporary
• Jazz & Theatre
• Gymnastics / Acrobatics
• Fusion & Performance-Based Training
This well-rounded approach ensures that dancers develop not only technical excellence but also versatility, musicality, and stage presence—qualities essential for success in elite institutions like the Joffrey Ballet School.
FAPA Dance Team – Training Beyond the Studio
In addition to their full-time training, these students are proud members of the FAPA Dance Team, an elite group of dancers who travel annually to regional and national competitions, representing the U.S. Virgin Islands on major stages.
Through competition experiences, these dancers gain:
• Advanced performance confidence
• Real-world stage exposure
• Competitive discipline and resilience
• National recognition and scholarship opportunities
This level of commitment further prepares them for the demands of prestigious programs and reinforces their ability to perform at a high level among top dancers from around the world.
Preparing for Excellence Beyond Acceptance
FAPA’s success is not by chance—it is built through intentional audition training and professional preparation. These students underwent a focused audition training process designed not only to secure acceptance, but to prepare them for what it truly takes to thrive in prestigious programs. A 3-week journey that emphasized training in:
• Professional class etiquette and discipline
• Technical precision and retention
• Confidence and performance quality
• The time management, conduct, mindset, and expectations of a pre-professional dancer FAPA ensures that its students are not only accepted into top-tier programs but are fully prepared to succeed within them, upholding the highest standards of professionalism and artistry expected at institutions such as the Joffrey Ballet School.
Elevating Arts Education in the U.S. Virgin Islands
FAPA USVI continues to serve as a beacon of opportunity and excellence in the Virgin Islands, providing youth with access to world-class training and pathways to professional careers in the arts. Under the leadership of Director Lea Scott and alongside esteemed mentor Laurence Floquet, the academy has consistently cultivated discipline, artistry, and ambition among its students.
Through years of dedication, FAPA & its Director Lea Scott has grown into an award-winning choreographer and studio. Acknowledged for professional dance classes, AfterSchool Programs, Summer & Winter Intensives, Annual Recitals and much more
Gaining national recognized scholarship programs, opening doors for young dancers to compete, train, and succeed on national and international stages.
Investing in the Future of Our Youth
This milestone highlights the importance of investing in arts education and creating opportunities for young people in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Dance is not only an expressive art form but also a powerful discipline that builds confidence, leadership, and academic strength—enhancing student portfolios and future success.
“These opportunities show our children that greatness is possible from right here at home,” said Director Lea Scott. “We are proud to represent the Virgin Islands and to continue building pathways for our youth to dream bigger, work harder, and achieve more.
Trust the process, Believe in yourself and Stay Committed!”
About FAPA USVI
The French Academy of Performing Arts (FAPA USVI) is a premier performing arts institution based in St. Thomas, dedicated to providing high-quality dance education, professional training, and performance opportunities for youth across the Virgin Islands. Through its programs and its nonprofit partner, The French Ballet Theatre, Inc., FAPA continues to inspire excellence, cultural pride, and artistic achievement.
