BalletNova invites serious dancers between 14 and 18 years old to apply to its second annual Young Choreographers Competition. Five finalists will be chosen by a slate of internationally recognized judges, then the public will be invited to vote for their favorite choreographer via Facebook. The popular vote counts 20 percent toward the total score. Finalists will be invited to perform at the “Shining a Spotlight on Dance” gala for BalletNova on Saturday, March 16, where the winners will be announced.

The first-place winner will receive a $500 cash scholarship and the opportunity to set his or her choreography on BalletNova’s Diamond Summer Intensive Performance Workshop dancers (presented at the August performance). The winner will also receive free tuition to BalletNova Diamond Summer Intensive. A $250 scholarship will be awarded for second place, and $100 for third.

Applicants must submit a videotape electronically, a short essay and recommendation from a teacher. Competition opens Jan. 20 with a choreographic workshop led by local dancer/choreographer Karen Reedy. The deadline for submission is Feb. 17.

For more information, email info@BalletNova or visit BalletNova.org.