There are dance competitions that placed on an incredible present, after which there are those that depart dancers feeling like household. Spirit of Dance Awards (SDA) has spent years doing each. It’s a family-run occasion that prioritizes consideration to element at each competitors and conference weekend. That dedication extends to its panel of judges and emcees, a lot of whom return season after season, enabling them to acknowledge and have fun dancers’ development over time.
By means of courses and suggestions from famend college, dancers are inspired to construct confidence and professionalism. Proprietor Marilyn Schmich says, “We offer an expertise wealthy in high quality, type, and kindness; three qualities that may be utilized to any profitable dancer.”
The place It Began
Spirit of Dance Awards has a easy origin story: In 2007, it was created by two sisters who grew up at their mom’s studio and labored in her dance store. Years later, Marilyn Schmich, longtime studio proprietor and buyer of Spirit of Dance Awards, took over the competitors and continued its legacy. The upcoming 2026/2027 season might be her fifth on the helm.
Moments That Make the Weekend Memorable
Extra than simply courses and performances, Spirit of Dance Awards creates alternatives for dancers to construct connections throughout the SDA group. The Ambassador Program is a well-liked method for the group to acknowledge and encourage its aggressive dancers to remain concerned. Dancers are chosen by an emcee for a callback and, from there, are invited to attend conventions as particular company or to compete with a complimentary solo.
Past recognition packages, SDA additionally consists of alternatives for contributors to broaden their talent units. The Improv Problem has grow to be a staple of the SDA competitors and conference expertise. What was as soon as an elective occasion is now included into the conference schedule. By participating alongside their friends, dancers usually really feel extra assured making an attempt one thing new. Every weekend additionally consists of an improv class beforehand, offering time to evaluation ideas and acquire confidence earlier than participating within the problem.
Skilled Coaching Alternatives on the Rise
For dancers fascinated about taking the following step of their coaching, Spirit of Dance Awards offers pathways that stretch past the conference expertise. By means of its collaboration with Pipeline Dance Coaching in New York Metropolis, led by SDA college Emily Bufferd and choreographer and dance educator Tracie Stanfield, Spirit of Dance Awards connects dancers to Pipeline’s fall coaching program, designed for people contemplating a yr in New York earlier than school or these getting ready to pursue knowledgeable profession. SDA additionally companions with DanceLook in Jacksonville, Florida, to supply scholarships for numerous summer time intensives.
One-of-a-Form Spirit Retailer
Past the stage, Spirit of Dance Awards additionally has merchandise and a “spirit retailer.” Within the midst of a busy competitors weekend, it’s not unusual for dancers to neglect a couple of objects alongside the best way. Whether or not it’s bobby pins or ballet tights, the on-site store has opponents lined. Carrying manufacturers akin to Capezio, Bunheads, Bloch, and Honeycut, the shop gives a variety of dance necessities. Dancers additionally cease by for the Spirit of Dance Awards style line, which incorporates seasonal hoodies and shirts in a wide range of colours.
Upcoming Dates
The regional and nationwide tour places are increasing on this upcoming season. The at present introduced tour stops are in Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, and New Hampshire, with extra nationwide stops to be introduced for 2027. Competitors registration opens on August 1.
The place Confidence Grows
“There’s nothing tougher and rewarding than stay efficiency alternatives. It’s the easiest way to realize confidence and follow all of your expertise. We’re thrilled to be part of that journey for any dancer,” Schmich says. To be taught extra concerning the family-like setting that fosters professionalism, click on right here.
