Spirit of Dance Awards, Where “Quality, Style, and Kindness” Reign
There are dance competitions that put on a great show, and then there are the ones that leave dancers feeling like family. Spirit of Dance Awards (SDA) has spent years doing both. It’s a family-run event that prioritizes attention to detail at every competition and convention weekend. That commitment extends to its panel of judges and emcees, many of whom return season after season, enabling them to recognize and celebrate dancers’ growth over time.
Through classes and feedback from renowned faculty, dancers are encouraged to build confidence and professionalism. Owner Marilyn Schmich says, “We provide an experience rich in quality, style, and kindness; three qualities that can be applied to any successful dancer.”
Where It Started
Spirit of Dance Awards has a simple origin story: In 2007, it was created by two sisters who grew up at their mother’s studio and worked in her dance shop. Years later, Marilyn Schmich, longtime studio owner and customer of Spirit of Dance Awards, took over the competition and continued its legacy. The upcoming 2026/2027 season will be her fifth at the helm.
Moments That Make the Weekend Memorable
More than just classes and performances, Spirit of Dance Awards creates opportunities for dancers to build connections within the SDA community. The Ambassador Program is a popular way for the organization to recognize and encourage its competitive dancers to stay involved. Dancers are selected by an emcee for a callback and, from there, are invited to attend conventions as special guests or to compete with a complimentary solo.
Beyond recognition programs, SDA also includes opportunities for participants to expand their skill sets. The Improv Challenge has become a staple of the SDA competition and convention experience. What was once an optional event is now incorporated into the convention schedule. By taking part alongside their peers, dancers often feel more confident trying something new. Each weekend also includes an improv class beforehand, providing time to review concepts and gain confidence before taking part in the challenge.
Professional Training Opportunities on the Rise
For dancers interested in taking the next step in their training, Spirit of Dance Awards provides pathways that extend beyond the convention experience. Through its collaboration with Pipeline Dance Training in New York City, led by SDA faculty Emily Bufferd and choreographer and dance educator Tracie Stanfield, Spirit of Dance Awards connects dancers to Pipeline’s fall training program, designed for individuals considering a year in New York before college or those preparing to pursue a professional career. SDA also partners with DanceLook in Jacksonville, Florida, to offer scholarships for various summer intensives.
One-of-a-Kind Spirit Store
Beyond the stage, Spirit of Dance Awards also has merchandise and a “spirit store.” In the midst of a hectic competition weekend, it’s not uncommon for dancers to forget a few items along the way. Whether it’s bobby pins or ballet tights, the on-site shop has competitors covered. Carrying brands such as Capezio, Bunheads, Bloch, and Honeycut, the store offers a range of dance essentials. Dancers also stop by for the Spirit of Dance Awards fashion line, which includes seasonal hoodies and shirts in a variety of colors.
Upcoming Dates
The regional and national tour locations are expanding in this upcoming season. The currently announced tour stops are in Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, and New Hampshire, with more nationwide stops to be announced for 2027. Competition registration opens on August 1.
Where Confidence Grows
“There is nothing more challenging and rewarding than live performance opportunities. It is the best way to gain confidence and practice all your skills. We are thrilled to be a part of that journey for any dancer,” Schmich says. To learn more about the family-like environment that fosters professionalism, click here.
