National Performance Awards 2026 – Belfast

About the National Performance Awards

The National Performance Awards (NPA) is a premier touring dance competition providing a professional stage experience for dancers across the UK and Ireland. They offer a platform where talent is celebrated, and every performer receives constructive, professional feedback to help them grow.

Why Compete at NPA?

Unlike standard festivals, the NPA focuses on the "performance" aspect. Dancers perform in professional theatre settings with high-quality lighting and sound, ensuring an atmosphere that mimics a professional production.

How the NPA 2026 Process Works

The National Performance Awards is a two-stage professional scouting and awards event. Dancers do not "enter" the competition directly; they must be selected through a video audition.

Step 1: The Video Audition (Open Tomorrow!)

• Cost: Free.

• Requirement: Submit a short video of a solo and two specific ballet photos via the NPA portal.

• Goal: To be selected for the live date.

Step 2: The Live Event Day (Selected Dancers Only)

• Cost: £135 (only payable if successful in Step 1).

• The Day: This is a full-day intensive (approx. 9am–7pm) consisting of:

  • 3x Masterclasses: Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz taught by West End & Professional industry leaders.

  • Live Audition: You are judged during the classes and a final solo performance.

  • Awards Ceremony: Certificates for all; trophies and scholarships for top performers.

A Unique Learning Opportunity for Spectators

NPA believe in transparency and the educational value of the audition process. We warmly welcome parents, teachers, and fellow performers to observe the live auditions in action. This offers a rare opportunity to witness first hand how dancers adapt, grow, and perform under professional audition conditions, providing invaluable insight for both the students and their supporters.

• Dance Schools: Looking for a well-organised, friendly competition environment.

• Independent Dancers: Solos, duets, and trios are welcome.

• All Genres: While we highlight Ballet, we also host Modern, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Acro.

• Open to students of all syllabus backgrounds (RAD, ISTD, IDTA, BBO, etc.).

• Professional Adjudication: Verbal and written feedback from industry experts.

• Awards & Medals: Recognition for top performers in every category.

• Performance Photos/Videos: High-quality media usually available for purchase.

• Safe Environment: Fully licensed and chaperoned events.

• Morning Session: Technical Masterclasses (Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz) with industry professionals.

• Afternoon Session: Live Auditions across all genres in front of the judging panel.

• Evening Session: Grand Awards Ceremony and Scholarship presentations.