Amber Neumann of Niles, daughter of Jeff and Mary Neumann, recently began a career with the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet in Chicago.

The offer followed a series of accomplishments that drew the attention of dance professionals.

Neumann was recognized as “Grand Prix Winner” at the February competition of Youth America Grand Prix in Chicago.

This distinction is awarded to a dancer who surpasses standards in Contemporary and Classical portions of the competition.

Then, in June she took the top prize at the “New York International Ballet Competition” held in New York City.

She and her partner each took the top prize in the men’s and women’s divisions.
Forty-eight dancers from 17 countries took part in the competition.

Upon returning to Chicago after the New York competition, Neumann was offered a contract with the Joffrey Ballet Company.

With its beginning in New York in 1956, the Joffrey has developed a reputation as a world-class American ballet company committed to artistic excellence and innovation.

The company relocated to Chicago in 1995 and performs in the Windy City and throughout the world.

This classically trained company expresses the artistic vision and creativity of founders Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino.

The company presents a unique repertoire from masterpieces of the past to cutting-edge works of the 21st century.