Melecio Amaro, a Cheltenham High School freshman, has been selected as the winner of the 2025-26 Balaurol Prize, according to an announcement from Metropolitan Ballet Company of Jenkintown.

Melecio has been a member of Metropolitan’s Boys’ Scholarship Program for the past six years and a member of the pre-professional Company since 2023. He recently performed the leading children’s role of “Prince” in Philadelphia Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, the announcement said.

From the announcement:

The Balaurol Prize is awarded to a dancer in the Met Men community who demonstrates exceptional commitment and dedication to the art of dance, and to his personal artistic growth. The award supports continuing education and mentoring opportunities that encourage the pursuit of a professional career. This year’s award was presented by Board President, June Hines.

The Balaurol Prize award will support Melecio’s coaching, entry fees and travel expenses for upcoming competitions: the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) and the American Dance Company/International Ballet Competition (ADC/IBC) this January and February. 

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Photos: Metropolitan Ballet Company