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.

Dance winners at National YoungArts Week

Competition Eligibility

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 a Finalist, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.

Application Requirements

The strongest auditions demonstrate a clear technique, a strong, unique voice and a sophisticated sense of nuance and range.

2024 application requirements will be available soon. Sign up for updates.

Ballet

Choreography

Hip Hop

Jazz

Modern-Contemporary

Tap

World Dance Forms

The 2024 YoungArts application opens June 2023.

Have Questions?

See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application. 

 

Tips and Testimonials from Winners and Guest Artists

Application tips | Vernon Scott, National Selection Panelist

2023 Application Ballet Info Session

2023 Application Hip Hop Info Session

2023 Application Tap Dance Info Session

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)

Select Performances from Winners

Nouhoum Koita, Modern-Contemporary

Isha Parupudi, Classic Indian

Rush Carson, Choreography

Tomoe Carr, Hip Hop

Amelie Or, Tap

Tyrone Reese, Ballet

Nouhoum Koita (2020 Dance & U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts) performing during National YoungArts Week

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)