Founder / Artistic Director
Mr. Vadym Dulepa began his professional journey at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world — the Ballet Academy of the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, under the mentorship of esteemed ballet master Igor Uksusnikov. Upon graduating in 1998, he was invited to join The Kremlin Ballet of the State Kremlin Palace, where he quickly rose to the position of principal dancer, performing on one of Russia’s most significant stages.
Throughout the early years of his career, Mr. Dulepa had the privilege of refining his artistry under the guidance of some of the most iconic figures in the ballet world. He worked closely with renowned stars from both the Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet companies, including Yuri Grigorovich, Ekaterina Maximova, Andrei Petrov, Vadim Gulyaev, and Nataliya Bolshakova. Later, in the United States, his development continued under the mentorship of world-famous choreographers and dancers such as Irina Kolpakova, Vladlen Semenov, and Tatiana Pali.
As both a principal dancer and guest artist, Mr. Dulepa’s career has taken him across continents. He has performed in major theaters and ballet galas throughout Europe, Asia, and North America, earning recognition for his versatile technique and refined stage presence. His extensive repertoire includes performances with renowned companies such as The Kremlin Ballet (Russia), Ontario Ballet Theatre (Canada), Ballet International (USA, China, Taiwan), Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre (USA), Canadian Ballet Theatre, New Jersey Ballet (USA), as well as numerous Japanese ballet companies in Nagoya, Tokyo, Inuyama, and Gifu.
Among the prominent roles Mr. Dulepa has brought to life on stage are the classics: Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, Le Corsaire, Paquita, La Fille Mal Gardée, Diana and Acteon, Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet, Tom Sawyer, One Thousand and One Nights, Dracula, Devdas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Angel, Tarantella, as well as a wide variety of contemporary works.
In 2009, expanding his artistic vision, Mr. Dulepa took on the roles of choreographer and lighting designer, working with Matchoka Ballet Company and CBC-Channel in Japan. His work always focuses on the power of movement to communicate emotions and stories, blending technical excellence with heartfelt expression.
Mr. Dulepa’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that dance transcends boundaries — it is a universal language capable of astonishing audiences through its boundless possibilities. He is committed to exploring the potential of the human body, striving for fluidity, strength, and grace, while maintaining a deep emotional connection with audiences worldwide.
In 2010, together with his wife Chieko Dulepa (Oiwa), Mr. Dulepa co-founded the W.B.A.C. in Toronto, Canada. Initially launched as a national platform, the competition quickly gained international recognition. By 2013, the organization proudly produced the first Canadian World Ballet Art Competition Grand Prix, designed to unite young, talented dancers from various cultural backgrounds, offering them the opportunity to compete for scholarships, prizes, and to share the stage with internationally acclaimed ballet stars during the WBAC Grand Prix Gala performance, Dance Planet.
Under Mr. Dulepa’s leadership, the competition expanded globally, evolving into the W.B.A.C. Grand Prix — World Ballet Art Competition Grand Prix, a premier international ballet event known for its dedication to promoting excellence in ballet and fostering cultural exchange.
In recognition of his contributions to the dance community, in 2015, Mr. Dulepa was admitted to membership by the International Dance Council CID (UNESCO) — the official worldwide organization for all forms of dance.
2010–Present — Founder / Artistic Director for W.B.A.C. Grand Prix — World Ballet Art Competition Grand Prix.
Vadym’s vision and artistic philosophy remain deeply influenced by his Bolshoi background, where dance is not merely a display of technique but an act of emotional and intellectual communication. His belief in “total theatre”—the idea that dance is not just about telling a story but about connecting deeply with the audience on an emotional level—has guided his work throughout his career. Whether on stage or behind the scenes as a choreographer, Vadym strives to create performances that allow the audience to experience something extraordinary—an unforgettable moment of shared humanity.
Today, as the Founder and Artistic Director of the W.B.A.C. Grand Prix, Vadym continues to inspire the next generation of ballet artists, providing them with opportunities to perform on the world stage. The World Ballet Art Competition has grown into a globally recognized ballet competition, attracting young dancers from every corner of the globe, offering them scholarships, professional connections, and the chance to perform at the highest level.
Vadym Dulepa’s journey from the heart of Bolshoi Theatre to leading one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions is a testament to his dedication, artistic vision, and unwavering commitment to the global dance community. His legacy is a testament to the power of ballet to unite people, transcend boundaries, and inspire the world.