The Showcase Difference
Competitive dance is expensive and, well, competitive. At Showcase America, we believe competition can and should be a fun way to build community, not divide it.
It’s about the kids, not the money.
As the only non-profit competitive dance organization in the United States, we are driven by our passion and purpose – not the bottom line. In fact, all money made at Showcase America is reinvested in our mission, including awarding scholarships for rising seniors.
We support individual and team growth.
We support individual and team growth in a number of ways. Ever experience judge feedback recordings that have little to no comments? Not here! Felt like you were just a number? Not with us! Were you the dancer in the back left corner? We see you! Our organization’s leaders have been coaches, dance parents, judges, choreographers, instructors and studio owners. These varied perspectives come together for an unmatched level of expertise that is here to help you succeed and grow – as individuals and as teams.
You’re one of us.
Our membership model means lower prices and more community. Here, you get to know other coaches, choreographers and the people behind the scenes at Showcase America. Resources like educational materials and industry contacts are shared openly. And, you have a seat at the table to input into rules, regulations and more.
Scholarships
We believe participation in dance prepares young people for their futures. And at Showcase America, we take it a step further.
Here, we invest in futures.
Each year, Showcase America awards scholarships to dancers pursuing and achieving excellence both on and off the stage. Since our inception, more than $100,000 has been awarded in college scholarships for graduating seniors.
Are you a senior in high school? The online application portal for this upcoming scholarship season will open soon.
The Showcase Difference
What makes Showcase America different from other dance competitions?
Simply put: we’re about the kids, not the money. Every dollar is re-invested in our mission and the experience.
Awards
At Showcase America, we recognize more than just technical skill. Our awards honor character, creativity, performance, leadership and heart. You’ll find we offer a variety of levels (Nova, Classic, Select) for our junior and senior level teams as well as separate school and studio team categories.
Overall Awards | Specialty Judges' Awards | Sportsmanship & Spirit Awards
Showcase America Traditional Awards (presented annually at Nationals):
John Graham Five Star:
Named in honor of our founder, John Graham, this award is given to a dancer competing within Showcase America who has overcome tremendous odds to achieve what they have. Please include in the letter the obstacles they have overcome. All nominations must be submitted by March 15.
Coach/Director of the Year:
This award is given to a coach/director who has worked diligently for the betterment of their dancers and embodies the core values of Showcase America. This award can be submitted by parents, dancers, other directors and more, but it is suggested and preferred to assemble one collective nomination. All nominations must be submitted by March 15.
Scholarship Program:
Each year, Showcase America reinvests revenue back into scholarships for seniors achieving excellence on and off the dance floor. If you are a high school senior and would like to apply for a Showcase America scholarship, please complete the application by March 15.
Hall of Fame:
This award recognizes an individual not only for their contributions on the dance floor, but also for efforts in community service as well as in the professional sector. Previous inductees have enriched and inspired many individuals in areas such as performance, adjudication, philanthropy, education, leadership and medicine, to name a few. Our goal is not only to honor these outstanding individual achievements but also spotlight their legacy to inspire today’s Showcase America dancers to develop a work ethic, persevere in the face of adversity and follow their dreams. All nominations must be submitted by March 15.
Showcase America Hall of Fame Recipients
2006 – John H. Graham, Founder of Showcase America
2007 – Flo Crachiola
2008 – Mindy Farry
2009 – Cindy Oler
2010 – John Dowler
2012 – Bridgette Hatfield & Jody Wright
2015 – Mariko Dewire
2021 – Lois Hugee
2022 – Linda Hall
2023 – Penny Priess & Nancy Turner