Dance
Dance is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline encompasses ballet, choreography, hip hop, jazz, modern-contemporary, tap, and world dance forms.
To be eligible, you must be able to answer ”Yes“ to these statements:
- I am either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or I can demonstrate that I am legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.
- I am in grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year I am applying.
- If I’m selected as an award winner with distinction, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.
The strongest auditions demonstrate a clear technique, a strong, unique voice and a sophisticated sense of nuance and range.
The 2026 YoungArts application opens in July 2025.
What's unique about YoungArts classes and mentorship? | Ernest Baker (2009 Dance & U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts)
What's unique about YoungArts classes and mentorship? | Ernest Baker (2009 Dance & U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts)
How did YoungArts impact your life? | Yara Travieso (2005 Dance)
How did YoungArts impact your life? | Yara Travieso (2005 Dance)
Lillian Mozie | Ballet
Lillian Mozie | Ballet
Yuniel Betancourt | Choreography
Yuniel Betancourt | Choreography
Edward Chen | Hip Hop
Edward Chen | Hip Hop
Vyoma Bhanap | Indian
Vyoma Bhanap | Indian
Isabel Kaiser | Irish Step
Isabel Kaiser | Irish Step
Cassidy Reigel | Jazz
Cassidy Reigel | Jazz
Uriel Ramirez | Mexican Folkloric
Uriel Ramirez | Mexican Folkloric
Samuel Fine | Modern-Contemporary
Samuel Fine | Modern-Contemporary
Amelie Or | Tap
Amelie Or | Tap
See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application.
The monetary award I received after National YoungArts Week helped make it possible for me to continue my training at The Juilliard School… and I’m extremely grateful for that.”
— Nouhoum Koita (2020 Dance & U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts)