CYBT’s Community Impact & Educational Outreach
Bringing ballet into the lives of young people and our community.
For a child seeing ballet for the first time, the experience can begin with a simple moment of wonder—a character stepping onto the stage, music filling the theater, or a story unfolding through movement.
Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre creates opportunities for those discoveries. Through educational performances, community appearances, and fully staged productions, CYBT connects young people and families with the arts while helping its dancers learn the value of sharing their talents with others.
Founded in 2006, CYBT celebrates its 20th season in 2026–2027, continuing its commitment to young artists and the cultural life of the Grand Strand.
Introducing Children to Live Ballet
CYBT’s educational outreach has introduced children from Horry and Georgetown Counties and surrounding communities to the experience of live performance.
From 2007 through 2019, school field trips brought students to the theater for productions including The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and Coppélia. For many children, these visits offered a first encounter with live ballet—the opportunity to discover how dancers, music, costumes, and scenery work together to tell a story.
These experiences opened a door to imagination, curiosity, and an appreciation for the performing arts beyond the classroom.
Following the interruption of school theater visits during the pandemic, CYBT is working to develop new opportunities for children to discover ballet through age-appropriate educational experiences.
Sharing Dance Beyond the Theater
CYBT’s community involvement extends beyond its mainstage productions. Over the years, dancers have participated in elementary school Fine Arts Day programs, holiday tree lightings, civic celebrations, and charitable events.
Past appearances have included Market Common tree lightings, events with the Long Bay Symphony, the Blessing of the Inlet, and the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball.
Each appearance offers a chance to connect with people who may not otherwise attend a ballet performance. It also helps our dancers understand that their artistry can contribute to celebrations, support community causes, and bring people together.
Helping Young Dancers Grow
Community outreach is also an important part of a young dancer’s education.
Through rehearsals and performances, CYBT dancers practice preparation, teamwork, responsibility, and adaptability. They learn to support one another, respect the people working behind the scenes, and share their work with different audiences.
Coastal Dance Centre, CYBT’s affiliated training school, provides the foundation for their dance education. CYBT builds upon that training through performance opportunities and community engagement. The confidence, discipline, and cooperation developed through these experiences support young people in dance and in the many other paths they may choose.
A Community Behind Every Performance
Families, volunteers, educators, guest artists, donors, and business sponsors all help make CYBT’s work possible.
Their support contributes to theater access, costumes, scenery, technical production, educational materials, and artistic guidance. Scholarship assistance, subject to available funding, also supports qualifying dancers who demonstrate financial need and commitment to their training and participation.
Together, these contributions help sustain a local arts organization that serves both its young performers and the community around them.
Be Part of Our Next Chapter
As CYBT celebrates its 20th season, we welcome connections with schools, community organizations, businesses, and individuals who share our interest in bringing dance to more young people and families.
To discuss educational outreach, a community appearance, sponsorship, or volunteer opportunities, please contact info@cybt.org or 843-839-5678.
