Dance

Dance is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline encompasses all 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 an award winner with distinction, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.

Application Requirements

Please follow the requirements as closely as possible. Failure to comply with the requirements may make your application ineligible for an award.  

The 2026 YoungArts application closes Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 8 PM ET.

Resources

Tips and Testimonials from Winners and Guest Artists

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

Lillian Mozie | Ballet

Yuniel Betancourt | Choreography

Edward Chen | Hip Hop

Vyoma Bhanap | Indian

Isabel Kaiser | Irish Step

Cassidy Reigel | Jazz

Uriel Ramirez | Mexican Folkloric

Samuel Fine | Modern-Contemporary

Amelie Or | Tap

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

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)