award categories
Performance & Artistic Excellence
Solo Dance Performance of the Year
Duet/Partner Dance Performance of the Year
Dance Ensemble/Group Performance of the Year
Youth Dance Performance of the Year
Emerging Dance Artist of the Year
Choreography of the Year
Professional Dance Performance of the Year
Community Dance Project of the Year
Folk or Traditional Dance Performance of the Year
Industry & Professional Recognition
Choreographer of the Year
Dance Photographer/Videographer of the Year
Dance Studio of the Year
College or University Dance Programme of the Year
Dance Educator of the Year
Dance Company of the Year
Dance Organisation or Institution of the Year
Dance Producer of the Year
Dance Festival or Event of the Year
Dance Advocate of the Year
Dance Media or Publication of the Year
Dance Retailer or Supplier of the Year
Design & Technical Innovation
Costume Design of the Year
Set and Stage Design of the Year
Lighting Design of the Year
Music and Sound Design of the Year
Original Composition for Dance of the Year
Digital Innovation in Dance of the Year
Well-being & Community Impact
Dance and Well-being Champion of the Year
Inclusive Dance Programme of the Year
Cross-Border Dance Collaboration of the Year
Youth Development through Dance Award
Social Impact through Dance Award
Mental Health and Well-being Initiative of the Year
Sustainability in Dance Award
Honorary & Lifetime Achievements
Lifetime Achievement in Dance
Hall of Fame Inductee
Outstanding Contribution to Ireland’s Dance Industry
Rising Star of the Year (Under 18)
Dance Innovator of the Year
Leadership in Dance Education Award
Cultural Legacy and Heritage Award
Education & Training Excellence
Dance Educator of the Year
Dance Training Programme of the Year
College or University Dance Programme of the Year
Dance Curriculum Innovation Award
Mentorship and Coaching Excellence Award
Dance Industry Support & Partnerships
Industry Sponsor or Funder of the Year
Dance Production Team of the Year (lighting, sound, stage management)
Media Partner or Broadcaster of the Year
Dance Industry Partner of the Year (e.g. venue, tour manager, admin, or agency partner)
Outstanding Contribution by a Non-Dance Organisation (e.g. supporter from corporate, community, or third sector)
Innovation & Technology in Dance
Technological Innovation in Dance of the Year
Virtual Dance Platform of the Year
Dance Influencer of the Year
Cultural & Heritage Contributions
Traditional Irish Dance Contribution of the Year
Cross-Cultural Dance Collaboration of the Year
Dance Heritage Preservation Award
Environmental & Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainable Dance Production of the Year
Green Dance Venue of the Year
Youth & Emerging Talent Awards
Youth Dance Organisation of the Year
Rising Choreographer of the Year
Emerging Dance Entrepreneur of the Year
Fun & Spontaneous dance
Street Dancer of the Year
For individuals or duos who perform in public spaces, from city streets to outdoor events, inspiring others through passion, skill, and energy.Viral Dance Moment of the Year
Recognising the most impactful or widely shared dance moment, online or offline, that captured the public’s imagination with joy, humour, or heart.Feel-Good Freestyle of the Year
Awarded to a spontaneous or improvised dance performance (solo or group) that radiated positivity, freedom, and creativity with an audience.