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ABOUT US
Welcome to the Golden Dance Awards NI
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An illustrious celebration of Northern Ireland’s vibrant dance community, the Golden Dance Awards NI proudly returns for its second year. Join us on Saturday, the 4th of October, at the stunning Culloden Estate and Spa for an unforgettable evening dedicated to recognising and honouring the exceptional contributions to dance in our region.
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From our humble beginnings, our mission has been driven by a profound passion for dance and a desire to establish a prestigious platform that celebrates the talent, creativity, and dedication within the industry. As former dancers, we understood the need for an event that not only spotlights excellence but also unites the community in shared celebration.
The Golden Dance Awards NI shine as a symbol of excellence, applauding the outstanding achievements of dance schools, studio owners, teachers, choreographers, dancers, artists, volunteers, festivals, feiseanna, and competition organisers. This is your moment to step into the spotlight and receive the recognition you so richly deserve.
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As we embark on another remarkable year, we are committed to fostering creativity, diversity, innovation, and growth within the dance community. Beyond celebration, we aim to inspire and support the next generation through leadership, education, and collaboration.
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Join us as we elevate the Golden Dance Awards NI into the ultimate dance event of our era. Let us honour the passion, talent, and relentless efforts that make Northern Ireland’s dance community truly extraordinary. Together, we celebrate the brilliance that inspires us all.

Catherine Hughes
Co-Founder

Danielle Hughes Quinn
Co-Founder
TITLE PARTNER

Award Categories
Special recognition
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Championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award
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Dance for Wellbeing Award
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Choreographer of the Year
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Dance Teacher of the Year
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Dance Assistant of the Year
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Dance Parent Award
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Dance Costume Designer Award
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Dance in Education Award
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Community Engagement Dance Award
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Dance Photographer of the Year
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Lifetime Achievement Award (teaching 25+ years)
DANCE School AWARDS
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County Antrim Dance School of the Year
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County Armagh Dance School of the Year
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County Derry/Londonderry Dance School of the Year
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County Down Dance School of the Year
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County Fermanagh Dance School of the Year
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County Tyrone Dance School of the Year
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Top Performing Dance School in Individual Dance Styles: Jazz, Irish, Line, Highland Dancing, Ballroom, Belly Dance, Salsa, Aerial Dance, Swing, Breakdance, Tap, Hiphop, Cheerleading, Acro, Contemporary, Ballet, Aerobic, Lyrical, Freestyle or Traditional Dance from your culture.
event AWARDS
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Event of the Year Dance Competition
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Event of the Year Feis
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Event of the Year Festival
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Event of the Year Project
DANCER of the year
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Aged 9 and Under
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Aged 13 and Under
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Aged 17 and Under
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Aged 18 and Over
Education AWARDS
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Primary School of the Year Dance Award
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Secondary School of the Year Dance Award
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University/College of the Year Dance Award
Dancer of the year
Solo Audition Entry
Golden Dance Awards Ireland:
Submission Guidelines
Please follow the instructions below to submit your audition video for either of the two categories.
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Categories
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Dancer of the Year - Submit a video of your favourite solo dance performance.
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Performing Arts Student of the Year - Submit a video highlighting your skills in singing and dancing.
Submission Process
1. Prepare Your Video
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Record or select your best performance in line with the category requirements of up to 2 minutes.
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Ensure your video clearly showcases your singing and dancing talents.
2. Submit Your Video
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Upload your video using WeTransfer or Dropbox.
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Email the video link to info@danceawardsni.com
3. Include the Following Details
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Full Name of the Performer
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Dance/Performing Arts School Name
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Age Category
After Submission
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Review: Your entry will be evaluated by our esteemed judging panel.
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Notification: Finalists will be notified via email.
Enter
Ready to make your mark at the Golden Dance Awards NI? Follow these simple steps to join us:
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Select Your Category - Are you a Dance Teacher, Choreographer, Festival Organiser, Costume Designer, Photographer, or another creative professional? Choose your category—or submit entries in multiple categories to increase your chances!
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Highlight Your Achievements -Share your awards, recognitions, and career milestones that showcase your expertise and dedication to your craft.
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Stand Out from the Crowd - Showcase your creativity, unique vision, and the impact you’ve made on the dance community.
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Confirm Your Entry - Once reviewed, you’ll receive an email confirmation. (Pro tip: Check your spam folder to ensure you don’t miss any updates.)
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Prepare Your Portfolio - In the second stage, you’ll need to present your best work. Start curating your portfolio now!
For any questions beyond the nomination form, please leave your details below, and we’ll get back to you soon!
If you have any questions or queries please let us know and we will get back to you at our earliest convenience.
