THE NEW JERSEY CIVIC YOUTH BALLET

NEW JERSEY CIVIC YOUTH BALLET

OUR MISSION

The New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet (NJCYB) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing dance as an art form through education and professional performances while fostering individual growth and arts awareness.

As a nonprofit youth ballet company, NJCYB is committed to providing talented young dancers with world-class training, performance opportunities, and the chance to inspire our community through the art of dance. Your generous donation helps cover essential costs, including costumes, choreography, theater expenses, and scholarships for aspiring artists.

Located in Hackettstown, NJ, NJCYB is proud to be the only nonprofit ballet company in Warren County, dedicated to enriching our community through the beauty and discipline of classical ballet. As a nonprofit, we rely on the generosity of those who cherish the arts to help us fulfill our mission each year. Your support allows us to provide exceptional training, create breathtaking performances, and inspire the next generation of dancers.

NJCYB has gained a reputation of exceptional artistry as we continue to strive towards making a tremendous impact on New Jersey Arts. Our rendition of Tchaikovsky's “Nutcracker” has delighted audiences in Northern New Jersey for the past 23 years. Growing interest in the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet has initiated the expansion of the Company’s repertoire to include length ballets including “Coppelia” and Secret Garden” as well as “Peter and the Wolf”, “Finding Equilibrium”, “Carnival of the Animals”, “The Tales of Beatrix Potter”, “Hansel and Gretel”, and more.

CO-EXECUTIVE & ARTISTIC DIRECTORS

ASHLEY CICALA FEYRER & ALEXANDRA THORPE

Alexandra and Ashley serve as the Co-Executive & Artistic Directors of the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet (NJCYB), working in close partnership to shape the company’s artistic vision and educational mission. Together, they bring a dynamic blend of artistic excellence, mentorship, and community-minded leadership to the organization.

With a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers, Alexandra and Ashley co-lead all major productions, curate performance opportunities, and oversee NJCYB’s training programs. Their collaborative leadership style has helped foster a supportive and rigorous environment where young dancers are encouraged to grow both technically and artistically.

Their public presence—both in the dance world and the greater New Jersey arts community—reflects their passion for making ballet accessible, relevant, and inspiring. From hosting community events and master classes to speaking on local radio and media outlets, they are strong advocates for youth arts education and the transformative power of dance.

2025 - 2026

NJCYB BOARD

The Board Members of the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet (NJCYB) are responsible for overseeing the organization's mission, financial health, and strategic direction. They provide governance, ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations, and support fundraising efforts to sustain the company’s artistic and educational programs. Board members also play a key role in community outreach, advocating for the arts and fostering partnerships to enhance opportunities for young dancers. Through their leadership, they help maintain the integrity and growth of NJCYB, ensuring it remains a vibrant cultural institution.

Emilia Huddle - President

Leah Ray - Treasurer

Cassie Faraci - Secretary

Janine Grimm - Trustee

Julianna Haluszczak - Trustee

Shanna Hingel - Trustee

Rebecca Rock - Trustee

Kelly Vogt - Trustee

OPEN POSITION

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

At the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet, we believe that investing in the arts is an investment in the future. Our mission is to provide a platform where young dancers, ages 5 and up, can grow, thrive, and discover their full potential. Through open auditions for each of our performances, we give aspiring performers the opportunity to take center stage and showcase their talent.

Our commitment to excellence drives us to not only offer top-tier ballet education but also to inspire confidence, creativity, and discipline in the next generation of artists. We recognize the power of the arts to shape young minds, foster personal growth, and cultivate a deeper sense of community. As funding for the arts continues to decline, we are grateful for the support of individuals and businesses who share our belief in the transformative power of dance.

DONATE

With your help, we can continue offering high-quality ballet education and unforgettable performances that captivate and inspire audiences. Your donation directly impacts our ability to provide these opportunities to young performers who may not have access to them otherwise. By supporting the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet, you are investing in the cultural fabric of our community and empowering young dancers to pursue their dreams.

Together, we can enrich the lives of many, instilling a lifelong love of the arts and ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to engage with and appreciate the beauty and power of dance. Your contribution not only supports our company but also helps foster a greater understanding of the arts in society. Join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of these young performers and the community they touch.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Remaining committed to our Mission, NJCYB performs at local schools, community venues, and nursing homes to bring the beautiful art of ballet to the community to promote arts awareness while fostering individual growth for our youth performers. We are happy to consider performing for your school. Contact us to submit a request!

“WHY WALK WHEN YOU CAN DANCE?”

ELLEN VAN DAM

DONATE TO NJCYB