The Tony Williams Dance Center (TWDC) is launching a new ballet program, including a youth ensemble.

The new company will debute at TWDC’s Brewery location, 284 Amory St., on May 17.

Started in 2000 by Artistic Director and teacher Tony Williams, TWDC is best known for the critically acclaimed annual production of the “Urban Nutcracker” Christmas show. The school currently has 325 students.

According to Williams, the new professional ballet company will also have an apprentice company for teens as well as a youth performance ensemble for ages 8 through 16.

“It is a natural progression for us to launch a ballet company,” Williams said in a release. “Over the years we have built an elite faculty and have brought some incredible talent into our dance programs. This ballet company gives talented dancers from all over Boston the opportunity to pursue a career in the arts.”

More information is available at twdance.com.