Outstanding Studio


For years, the NYC Dance Alliance has supported the concept of 'versatility' in dance training - every style, every age. In continuing our tradition of recognizing excellence in dance education, we are excited about our Outstanding Studio Award!

Each studio that submits entries in all of the required divisions will be considered for this prestigious award - 8 entries at the Regional Level and 10 at the National Level. The award will be determined by a composite score from the regular competition.

Guidelines

  • Each entry must be a Group, Line or Production. No Solos or Duo/Trios.
  • The Outstanding Studio composite scoring process will be based on the studio's highest scoring numbers, with the appropriate Performance Categories and choreographers.
  • Entries must be entered in the appropriate Performance Categories. If entered incorrectly, NYCDA reserves the right to change the category or disqualify the entry from the Outstanding Studio process.
  • The registered dancers can vary from entry to entry.
  • Each season, studios may compete for the Outstanding Studio Award as often as they like. However, each entry may only compete in one Regional city.
  • Entries are entered for one city, at a time. Entries may not be combined across multiple cities.
  • Ballet entries require ballet or pointe shoes.
  • There is no extra charge to be considered for the Outstanding Studio Award.
  • One half of the required entries may be choreographed by 'guest' choreographers. The other half must be choreographed by full-time/weekly studio faculty. When vying for the Outstanding Studio Award, studios must submit their choreographer list, designating guest, or full-time faculty.

Awards

Regional Awards

  • Each weekend, a $500 NYCDA gift certificate will be awarded to the Outstanding Studio Award winner.
  • Winners are announced at the Convention Finale on Sunday afternoon.

National Awards

  • ONE studio will be awarded a $10,000 National Grand Prize* and a $5000 gift certificate for Nationals 2026. *The prize will be IN ADDITION TO any/all cash awards earned throughout the National Finals.
  • The National Outstanding Studio is announced at the Closing Night Gala.
  • At the National level, a minimum of FIVE studios must participate in the Outstanding Studio process to warrant the presentation of the National Grand Prize.

Prerequisites

Regional Prerequisites

Senior/Teen Division

  1. Ballet
  2. Contemporary or Lyrical
  3. Tap or Hip-Hop
  4. Jazz, Musical Theater, or Uptempo Specialty

Junior/Mini Division

  1. Ballet
  2. Contemporary or Lyrical
  3. Tap or Hip-Hop
  4. Jazz, Musical Theater, or Uptempo Specialty

National Prerequisites

Senior/Teen Division

  1. Ballet
  2. Jazz
  3. Tap or Hip-Hop
  4. Contemporary or Lyrical
  5. Musical Theater or Uptempo Specialty

Junior/Mini Division

  1. Ballet
  2. Jazz
  3. Tap or Hip-Hop
  4. Contemporary or Lyrical
  5. Musical Theater or Uptempo Specialty

Questions? Email: registration@nycdance.com