Youth America Grand Prix brings high stakes and high pressure ballet

SAN MATEO, CA -- Young ballerinas came together under one roof Thursday for what's being called 'the Olympics of ballet.'

Their dancing dreams are on the line.

Things have become very serious in San Mateo--life or death serious for someone who aspires to dance professionally.

When asked if she was nervous, Delizo said, "Sort of, yeah."

Her mother says she started working on her routine in September.

For dancers, the Youth America Grand Prix is the equivalent of an NFL draft, but more graceful.

The best ballet students in this region get two minutes on stage to prove they belong in New York City competing against others from around the world. Charles Darwin eat your heart out.

"It's the creme de la creme de la creme," said judge Karine Plantadit.

These kids have come from all of California, Nevada and even Utah. There's a lot at stake.

Larissa Saveliev, formerly of the Boshoi Ballet, founded this competition which awards scholarships from 30 ballet companies which train and turn out to be the stars of our future.

Around 7pm, Delizo took the stage for her contemporary number with her 10-year dream on the line. She looked good to us, but the judges won't announce who moves on until Sunday.

When asked if she'd get homesick going to school away from home Delizo replied, "Yeah, but it's a big opportunity so I would definitely do it."