Exclusive interview

Welcome to the electrifying world of ballet competition and audition! We are here at the EBGP, one of the prestigious ballet competitions in Europe, where young and talented dancers from around the globe come to showcase their artistry, technique, and passion. But beyond the stunning pirouettes and breathtaking leaps, what really goes on behind the scenes? What does it take to compete at this level?

Today, we go beyond the stage and come closer to the “why” competitions are cherished. In this exclusive interview Simona Noja-Nebyla, Founder and Director of EBGP Vienna sits down with Hana Kosaki, CEO of Unblanché, Tokyo, Japan, juror at the 8th edition of the EBGP Competition and Audition in Vienna to discuss the evolving landscape of ballet competitions, the importance of an open mindset, and the future of young dancers in the industry.

Hana Kosaki, a ballet teacher and mentor, believes that competitions help with self-evaluation by allowing dancers to test their abilities in front of different audiences. In Japan, ballet training is offered exclusively through private schools. Unlike European ballet schools, they do not have standardized exams. As a result, “going out of their bubble”, and undergoing an evaluation provides significant benefits, helping dancers assess their progress and refine their skills.

touch their hearts when they perform

Also, having the opportunity to perform on stage more than just once a year, as is common in Japan, is important for students. It allows them to truly "touch their hearts when they perform."

testing what works and what doesn’t is essential to becoming a better dancer

She explains, "It is important to step outside your own country because different cultures, audiences, and reactions shape your growth. You must understand that your dance cannot always remain the same. Testing what works and what doesn’t is essential to becoming a better dancer."

they become so open-minded… it is life-changing for them

It is surprising how the overall experience of a competition— including flights, travel, and everything involved—has such a strong impact on them. They become more open-minded, and in the end, I have noticed that it is a truly life-changing experience.

It has to be the full package to become a good dancer

All of this broadens their horizons, not only as ballet dancers but also as human beings—something we sometimes forget. "IIt has to be the full package to become a good dancer." In the end, it’s not just about technique but about the heart you put into it, and that is what truly touches the audience, Hana believes.

the reasons why classical ballets were created the way they were

When asked if she could change something in the ballet world, Hana expresses her strong belief in tradition and the reasons why classical ballets were created the way they were. However, she would love to create more work opportunities for ballet dancers, especially in Japan.

What makes EBGP different than other competitions?

Beyond the numerous opportunities to be seen, earn scholarships, and receive awards, what truly matters is your belief in the art form—your deep appreciation for ballet as something more than mere spectacle, but as a profound expression of artistry and passion.

Hana Kosaki: "I believe EBGP stands for a competition that truly values and celebrates the art of ballet!"

Thank you!

Key Themes from the Interview of Hana Kosaki at EBGP 2025

1. The Significance of Ballet Competitions

   • Competitions provide young dancers with a platform to showcase their artistry, technique, and passion.

   • Beyond the performances, competitions offer valuable experiences that shape dancers’ growth.

2. Self-Evaluation and Growth Through Competition

   • Hana Kosaki emphasizes the importance of competition in self-assessment.

   • In Japan, without standardized exams in ballet schools, international competitions serve as key evaluation opportunities.

3. Stepping Beyond Comfort Zones

   • Exposure to different cultures, audiences, and feedback is crucial for development.

   • Testing what works and what doesn’t helps dancers refine their skills and artistic expression.

4. The Transformative Power of the Experience

   • Travel, performances, and the competitive environment open dancers' minds.

   • Many find the experience life-changing, broadening their perspectives beyond ballet.

5. The Importance of Stage Experience

   • Performing more than once a year is essential for artistic and emotional growth.

   • True artistry comes from touching hearts through performance.

6. The Full Package: Technique and Emotion

   • Becoming a great dancer requires more than technical skills—it demands emotional depth.

   • The connection between dancer and audience is what truly makes a performance memorable.

7. Honoring Tradition While Expanding Opportunities

   • Hana Kosaki believes in the importance of preserving classical ballet’s traditions.

   • She advocates for creating more work opportunities for ballet dancers, particularly in Japan.

8. What Sets EBGP Apart?

   • EBGP provides not just recognition but a space for genuine artistic appreciation.

   • It is a competition that values ballet as an art form, not just a spectacle.

9. A Motto for EBGP

   • "I believe EBGP stands for a competition that truly values and celebrates the art of ballet!" – Hana Kosaki.