The Kansas City Ballet School Summer Intensive Ambassador Scholars for 2026 are Avynn Barnett and Kaci-Alissa Campbell. Selected from last year’s Summer Intensive participants for their exceptional talent, work ethic, etiquette, and leadership, each received a full tuition scholarship to return for Summer Intensive 2026. As ambassadors, they’ve reflected on their experiences – both during their five weeks at Kansas City Ballet School and in how they’ve applied what they learned back at their home studios.
What stood out most during your time at Kansas City Ballet School’s Summer Intensive?
Avynn: Taking classes alongside Kansas City Ballet’s Second Company dancers was eye-opening. Watching them showed me how much more I still have to work on, both technically and artistically. Even in class, they had this performance quality – they always looked ready for the stage. I also learned from the other dancers in my level that you can work incredibly hard and still enjoy yourself during class. And I discovered how important it is to take care of your body.
Kaci-Alissa: During a grand allegro combination, where we perform big jumps, teacher Amaya Rodriguez reminded us to show our artistry. She encouraged me to smile during the combination, explaining that every technical movement is enhanced when you use your face. I applied that lesson during my Nutcracker performances this past December, and it really improved my stage presence. Another instructor, Jaime Hickey, emphasized using épaulement, the positioning of the head and shoulders, even when facing the barre. She taught me that épaulement enhances every step in a combination or variation, which has added so much depth to my artistry.
How have you applied what you learned at Summer Intensive in your training at home?
Avynn: Everything I learned at Kansas City Ballet School’s Summer Intensive has stayed with me this year and made it one of my best years at my home studio. One of the biggest changes is how I handle corrections. Instead of getting frustrated when I fall out of a turn or make a mistake, I laugh it off and try again. I also learned the importance of injury prevention, which I’ve incorporated into my daily routine. And I’ve shifted my focus in class – instead of just thinking about the steps, I’m paying attention to my turnout, musicality, accents, and port de bras. I’m dancing the combinations, not just executing them.
Kaci-Alissa: When my teachers and I reviewed my Nutcracker performances this December, we noticed I was able to access more artistry -more of myself – on stage. My experience at Kansas City Ballet School’s Summer Intensive built on the foundation from my home studio and helped me continue striving toward my fullest artistic potential.
What will you take with you from this Kansas City Ballet School Summer Intensive experience?
Avynn: The Summer Intensive changed how I think in class, how I perform, and what I focus on as a dancer. I couldn’t be more grateful for my time there, and I’m so excited to return this summer.
Kaci-Alissa: One of my teachers once told me that training with multiple instructors would be essential to my growth. Being exposed to different teaching methods and styles at Kansas City Ballet School has absolutely made me a better dancer. Every instructor offered their knowledge and perspective, and together, they’ve all contributed to my development as an artist.
In one word, what does it mean to you to be named a Kansas City Ballet School Summer Intensive Ambassador Scholar?
Avynn: Proud.
Kaci-Alissa: Opportunity.
Programs like the Summer Intensive Ambassador Scholarship give young dancers life-changing training opportunities. If you’re interested in supporting the next generation of ballet artists, please contact Chief Philanthropy Officer Kristin Castle at 816.216.5585 or kcastle@kcballet.org.
Header image: Avynn Barnett and Kaci-Alissa Campbell featured in their home studio productions. Photos courtesy of Avynn Barnett and Kaci-Alissa Campbell.
