James Shughart began his dance training at 12 years old at Delaware Arts Conservatory

and Cab Calloway School of the Arts, where he quickly discovered his love for ballet. In

2013, he was accepted into the prestigious year-round boarding program at The Rock

School for Dance Education, where he refined his technique and deepened his passion

for the art form. His training was further enriched by summer intensives at The Rock

School, Chautauqua Institution, and The School of Philadelphia Ballet.

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In January 2017, James joined The School of Philadelphia Ballet as a trainee. That

summer, before entering his senior year of high school, he was offered a contract with

Philadelphia Ballet II. During his time with the company, he originated the role of the

Prince in Prince Charming and was featured in the PBS-aired documentary Live Out

Loud (Freshfly/Glennfilms), both as part of the company’s Arts Reach program. His

repertoire also included productions such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, George

Balanchine’s Jewels, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s

Romeo and Juliet, and Jerome Robbins’s Glass Pieces.

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In 2019, James joined Alabama Ballet as a company member, performing lead and

featured roles in La Bayadère, Romeo and Juliet, Agnes de Mille’s Rodeo, Denis Nahats

Blue Suede Shoes, George Balanchine’s Nutcracker, George Balanchine’s Serenade.

In 2021, James relocated to New York City to pursue a transition from ballet into

musical theater. He expanded his versatility through Broadway Dance Center’s

Professional Semester in fall 2023, training with industry leaders including Sheila

Barker, Janice Rosario, Cornelius Carter, Kenna Morris Garcia, Debbie Wilson, Joey

Tierno, Sarah Meah, and vocal coach Eric Fotre Leach. While in NYC, he also had the

opportunity to work on set Étoile (Amazon Prime).

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Most recently, James performed with Disney Cruise Line from September 2024 to June

2025 aboard the Disney Dream, appearing in Beauty and the Beast, The Golden

Mickeys, Disney’s Believe, Holiday Deck Party, and a Marvel installment, bringing his

dynamic versatility to the seas.

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Alongside his performance career, James is a dedicated and passionate teacher. He has

worked with dancers of all ages and skill levels, sharing his deep love for the art form

while emphasizing safe, thoughtful technique. James is committed to nurturing both

artistry and longevity in dance, inspiring the next generation to move with confidence,

expression, and joy.