Three independent judges
Balanced, professional scoring from an experienced judging panel.
The Aaron Dwyer Company
More Than a Competition.
An Experience.
AD Dance Competition brings dancers, studios and families together for a professionally produced competition experience across the UK and Ireland. With high-quality theatre production, expert judging and a supportive atmosphere, every dancer is given the opportunity to perform, grow and feel celebrated.
The Experience
Where dancers take the stage with confidence.
From the moment dancers arrive, AD is designed to feel exciting, organised and professional. Our events combine the energy of a live show with the structure of a trusted dance competition, creating a memorable day for performers, teachers and families.
Dancers do more than compete. They gain valuable stage experience, receive professional feedback and leave with greater confidence, motivation and memories that last beyond the event.
Why AD?
A competition created with dancers and studios in mind.
Audio and video feedback
Useful feedback that dancers and teachers can revisit after the event.
West End-style production
Professional theatres, lighting and atmosphere that make every performance feel special.
Novice and competitive levels
Clear divisions that allow dancers to perform at an appropriate level.
Learning opportunities
Audition workshops give dancers the chance to learn, be seen and develop.
Recognition beyond placements
Special awards celebrate technique, performance, choreography, potential and individuality.
Who Can Enter?
A place for every dancer.
AD welcomes dance studios and independent dancers from across the UK and Ireland. Entries are available for soloists, duets, trios, groups and productions across a wide range of dance styles and age divisions.
- Novice and competitive performers
- Dancers entering through a registered studio
- Independent dancers entering without a dance school
- Tiny Tots and dancers with additional needs
- Children, teenagers and adult performers
For full age divisions, genres and entry requirements, visitors should use the Competition Rules page.
Judging & Feedback
Professional feedback that supports real development.
Every routine is scored by three independent judges. Each judge considers technique, musicality, performance and choreography, creating a balanced overall score.
Dancers receive professional audio and video feedback after the competition. This allows performers and teachers to understand the panel’s comments, recognise strengths and identify clear areas for development.
Awards
Celebrating achievement, potential and individuality.
AD recognises far more than first, second and third place. Alongside placement and overall awards, dancers may be recognised through a range of special awards celebrating standout qualities on stage.
Explore Awards & Scoring
Judges’ ChoiceStand Out DancerChoreography AwardTop 3 SoloistsHighest OverallStudio AwardMr & Miss TitleUltimate DancerGolden Buzzer
Grand Finals
One season. One qualifying score. One unforgettable final.
Dancers do not need to place first, second or third at a regional heat to qualify. Once the competition season is complete, AD publishes the official qualifying scores for novice and competitive entries.
Any dancer who achieves or exceeds the relevant qualifying score will be invited to compete at the AD Dance Competition Grand Finals. It gives dancers across the season an exciting goal to work towards and the opportunity to return to the stage for our biggest celebration of the year.
Take the next step
Ready to take the stage?
Explore upcoming competition locations, download the Season 5 Information Pack and secure your dancers’ places.
Competition DatesChoose a location and begin registration.
Competition RulesView ages, levels, genres, deadlines and requirements.
Awards & ScoringUnderstand scoring, placements and special awards.
WorkshopsExplore learning and audition opportunities.
Competition FAQsFind answers to common questions for studios and families.