Petra Ballet Student Companies exist as an extension of Petra School of the Arts. This select group of intermediate and advanced students participate in weekly classes and rehearsals in a focused and intentional environment. These opportunities refine, grow, and challenge dancers physically, spiritually, and artistically beyond the classroom. Creative Worship is also a foundational part of the vision and heart of this company of dancers.
The Junior Company is comprised of students in our Intermediate School and participate by audition only. We desire to give students an opportunity to work together under company directors and choreographers to teach, train, and impart both technicality and a heart of worship. This outlet for outreach impacts our city for Jesus and expresses His heart through the art of dance.
The Senior Company consists of advanced dancers who have been invited to perform with our pre-professional company. Bookings and outreaches include local events and national tours. These dancers perform several full length ballets each year and are committed to technical excellence while they are passionate about spreading the Gospel.
The mission of the Junior and Senior Companies uphold the mission of Petra by lifting up the Name of Jesus through excellence in the arts. Performance opportunities are scheduled both individually for each company and also in collaboration for joint productions.
Kim Raymond is originally from Springfield, Missouri. She began her ballet training at the age of seven under the instruction of Debbie Claus Moore. Kim completed her advanced training under Julia Bubalo at Ozark Dance Academy. She also received training and performed with Springfield Ballet and Missouri State University. Upon high school graduation, Kim moved to Jackson, MS, to join Ballet Magnificat!’s Trainee Program in 2001. She was later promoted to Company Member with Ballet Magnificat! Omega. In August 2004, Kim married Jason Raymond, who served as the company’s Road Manager. The couple moved to Springfield in June of 2007 and founded Petra Ballet Company in January of 2008.
Kim’s teaching experience includes six years at Ballet Magnificat! School of the Arts, Ballet Magnificat! Summer Dance Intensives, and workshops at Credo Dance Academy, Ozark Dance Academy, Red Door Dance Company, and Springfield Ballet. Kim has guested as instructor and choreographer on tour in the United States and internationally, including master classes in Soust, Holland and at the Prague Conservatory of Dance. Kim is the Founder and Artistic Director of Petra Ballet Company, Petra School of the Arts, and Petra’s Student Companies. She is an instructor in the Advanced School and has choreographed several original full length ballets for Petra’s Touring Company and Student Companies.
Kaitlyn Underwood was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri. She began her dance training at the age of 13 and received her primary ballet instruction from Credo Dance Academy.
