The Basics
What is a dance convention?
A dance convention is a 1–3 day event where dancers attend educational dance classes taught by professional choreographers and industry instructors who tour from city to city. Most major conventions also include a competition where studios bring rehearsed routines to be judged.
The format
Typical convention weekend: classes from morning to evening (often 8am–6pm), often mixed with competition rounds, scholarship auditions, faculty showcases, and a closing show. Dancers register either through their studio (group registration is standard) or individually.
A typical schedule
- Friday evening: Welcome ceremony, opening class, sometimes competition begins
- Saturday all day: Classes throughout (8am–6pm), competition mixed in, scholarship auditions
- Sunday: More classes, closing competition, scholarship presentations, faculty performance show
Who attends
- Studio competition teams (registered as a group)
- Individual dancers (sometimes registered separately from their studio)
- Studio owners and teachers (often with their own track of teacher classes)
- Parents (limited classes, sometimes a parent program)
What dancers get out of it
- Training from professional working choreographers
- Exposure to new styles, techniques, and approaches
- Industry networking
- Scholarship opportunities (often to summer intensives)
- Performance experience in front of peers
- Inspiration to bring back to their studio
Unique to dance
Cheer doesn't have a real convention equivalent. The convention scene is central to competitive studio dance — which is why understanding it matters for parents and dancers navigating that world.
Headed to your first convention?
Read the survival guide for what to pack, what to expect, and what to skip.
First Convention Guide