They began as scholarship students with the New York City Dance Alliance and trained under world-class mentors.
Now they are performing on opening night with Complexions Contemporary Ballet at the Joyce Theater in Chelsea on Tuesday.
"Imagine Joy" is one of several new dances Complexions Contemporary Ballet will perform at the Joyce Theater for a two-week run starting November 18.
During final rehearsals, co-founders Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson were busy perfecting every move.
"When the audiences come to see Complexions, they are not only moved by the technique but by the uniqueness and authenticity," Desmond Richardson with Complexions Contemporary Ballet said.
The company, which started in 1994, unifies different styles of dance.
That same year, Complexions partnered with another new organization, the New York City Dance Alliance.
The New York City Dance Alliance provides a runway for young dancers through scholarships and mentorship and propels them to the next level.
This will be Jasmine Robinson's first time performing as a company member.
She credits NYCDA for getting her to this point.
When she was 13, she took a master class with Richardson.
"I just fell in love with his movement and artistic vision and I really admired the way he cultivated a space and I knew that I wanted to get in front of him again," Robinson said.
Lucy Stewart is also an example of the reach of the Dance Alliance.
This is her fourth season with Complexions.
"I love the intensity of the company, love the drive and push and how challenging it is, especially with these two weeks at the Joyce, I always say they are the hardest two weeks but I find the most growth within myself," Stewart said.
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Follow us on YouTube
* More local news
* Send us a news tip
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts