Golden Dance Awards — Judging Criteria

All nominations are reviewed by an independent judging panel.

Judges will consider:

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• Nomination information provided

• Video evidence submitted

• Public performance material where available

• Relevant social media platforms

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If further clarification is needed, the Golden Dance Awards team will contact nominees directly.

Some additional awards are self-explanatory and may not require detailed published criteria.

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Dancer of the Year

Judges look for:

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• Strong technical control suitable to the dance style

• Clear musical timing and rhythm

• Energy, commitment, and attack

• Clear understanding of style

• Performance confidence and stage presence

• Consistency across performances

 

Performing Arts Song & Dance Student of the Year

A musical theatre performance where singing and storytelling are central. Movement or dance may be included, but character and vocal performance lead the piece.

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Judges look for:

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• Vocal technique and musical accuracy

• Clear storytelling and believable character

• Strong connection between voice, movement, and acting

• Stage presence and audience communication

• Confidence and performance clarity

• Appropriate song and character choice for the performer’s age and ability

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Pre-Professional Dancer / Performing Arts Student Award (18+)

This award recognises a dancer or performing arts student who has progressed beyond basic training and is pursuing a pre-professional pathway, demonstrating commitment, growth, and strong potential for a future career in the industry.

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Group Awards

(All group awards are judged with age and style suitability in mind with the possibility of performance on the awards evening)

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Group Performance of the Year

Any dance style performed by 5 or more dancers, focusing on teamwork and connection.

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Judges look for:

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• Synchronisation and teamwork

• Technical accuracy for the style

• Musical unity and shared timing

• Clear intention and performance quality

• Balanced contribution from dancers

• Overall cohesion as a group

• Visual impact and staging

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Dance / Festival / Feis Competition of the Year

Judges consider:

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• Professional organisation and event delivery

• Fair and transparent judging processes

• Quality and usefulness of feedback given

• Safeguarding and duty of care standards

• Positive experience for dancers and teachers

• Accessibility and inclusive practice

• Support for dancer learning and growth

• Overall value to the dance community

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Lifetime Achievement Award

Judges consider:

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• Long-term contribution to dance

• Influence on dancers, teachers, or organisations

• Lasting legacy and impact

• Mentorship and support of others

• Professional integrity over time

• Respect within the dance community

• Why recognition is meaningful at this time

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Dance School of the Year Small, Medium & Large - 3 awards)

Judges consider:

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• Clear achievements in the past year

• Positive impact on students and community

• Strong ethos and values

• Support for both recreational and career-focused students

• Student wellbeing and safeguarding practice

• Commitment to inclusion and fairness

• Leadership and professional standards

• Overall strength of the nomination case

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Dance Teacher of the Year

Judges consider:

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• Quality and clarity of teaching

• Ability to inspire and motivate students

• Support for different learning needs

• Commitment to safe practice and wellbeing

• Professional reliability and integrity

• Continued professional development

• Positive impact in the past year

• Inclusive and respectful teaching approach

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Choreographer of the Year

Awarded to a choreographer who demonstrates creativity, originality, and effective movement design across their work.

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Judges look for:

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• Originality and creative vision

• Clear choreographic structure and flow

• Musical interpretation and phrasing

• Movement that suits the dancers’ strengths and level

• Storytelling or concept clarity where appropriate

• Innovation within or across styles

• Strong visual and performance impact

• Consistent quality across their choreography