DEADLINES + DETAILS

Registration Deadline: March 23, 2026
Routine entry closes 18 days before each event.

BEFORE THE EVENT

• December 1, 2025: Review reserved routines. Regional deposits are no longer refundable or transferable.
• 3 Weeks Prior: Pre-competition checklist emailed so you know what’s next
• 18 Days Prior: Final registration deadline (schedule creation begins the next day). Make sure to:
  1. Enter all routine details and complete changes
  2. Upload music files
  3. Submit full payment
• 7 Days Prior:
  • Full event schedule is posted
  • Personalized dancer schedules available in Dancer Hub
  • Photo & video pre-orders open at an extra discounted price
• 3 Days Prior: Know Before You Go email released with:
  • Venue + parking info
  • Prop drop-off details
  • “We’re Competing!” shareable graphic
  • Final event-specific reminders

DURING THE EVENT

• Doors Open: 1 hour before the first scheduled routine
• Props: Large props may be dropped off at the loading dock once doors open
• Results: Overall awards posted on touchscreen TVs after each awards set
• Live Stream: Watch every routine live for free on our website or app, complete with a continuous “next-up” screen
• Photos & Videos: Pre-order discounted media by entering your dancer’s name + birthday to view all available routines
• Event Tools: Use the FREE Showstopper App for schedules, updates, and orders

AFTER THE EVENT

• 1–2 Days After: Judges’ critiques and final results available in Studio Center
• 3-6 Days After: Routine photos and videos ready for preview/download
• 3–7 Days After: Winner award checks mailed to studios
• Plan your next Showstopper event! Easily copy routines to one of our 2026 Finals, and check out our Fall Convention Tour dates for another unique Showstopper experience!
• May 2026: 2027 Tour Dates announced
• August 2026: 2027 Tour Registration opens

THE SHOWSTOPPER EXPERIENCE

We design each day to be seamless and spectacular—because when the details are handled, your dancers can shine, and you can enjoy every second.

Step into the spotlight with a competition experience like no other:

• Built for Every Studio and Every Dancer:
  • 5 competition levels, including a level for dancers with special needs and disabilities
  • 5 overall age divisions
  • 20+ category age divisions
  • 6 routine entry types
  • 15+ dance categories
  • Awards for both categories and overalls
• World-Class Production: Custom Marley stages, pro lighting, massive LED screens
• Free Live Stream: Every routine streamed with “next-up” screen updates
• Dynamic LED Backgrounds: 100,000+ visuals tailored to each performance
• Capture the Moment: Multi-camera videos and professional photos—each photo or video package starting at $9.99 per routine
• Professional Critiques: Honest, helpful feedback from industry pros
• Trophies + Medals: Every dancer gets a medal, every routine earns a trophy
• Special Opportunities: Convention scholarships, magazine features, All-Star invites, and even Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade selections
• Shop the Showstopper Store: Over 50 exclusive items dancers love—at prices you’ll appreciate
• Memorable Extras: Just Dance videos, photo ops, and fun surprises throughout the weekend

FOR TEACHERS & STUDIO OWNERS

• Your Dedicated Rep: We’re with you every step—from sign-up to awards
• Flexible Schedule Views: Dancer-specific, group views, and full overviews
• Early Schedule Access: 10 days before the event for studio directors
• Welcome Gift: Complimentary gift for each studio
• Teacher Perks: Free event program and access to our luxury Teacher Hospitality Suite (stocked all day!)
• No Surprise Fees: No observation fees, no mandatory media charges, no penalties for routine changes—you stay in control
• Early access to our 2026 Tour schedule and registration