Saturday 13th September2025
CASTLEKNOCK HOTEL, DUBLIN
WE ARE GOLDEN. WE ARE THE GOLDEN DANCE AWARDS.
A new golden era begins! Following the success of Dance Awards NI 2024, we are thrilled to launch Golden Dance Awards. We are proud to introduce Golden Dance Awards, uniting our platforms across Northern Ireland, Ireland, and Scotland under a bold new identity.
The inaugural Golden Dance Awards Ireland is a prestigious event that will honour Ireland’s dance community at the Castleknock Hotel in Dublin on September 13th, 2025, marking a new chapter in celebrating dance and performing arts excellence.
For two years, we’ve celebrated the passion, artistry, and dedication of dancers, studios, and organisations. Now, we step into a brighter future, committed to inclusivity, hard work and an unwavering dedication to innovation, integrity, and excellence in the art of dance, as we celebrate the Golden Dance Awards
This is more than a name—it’s a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. A tribute to the incredible talent within our dance community and a promise to keep raising the bar.
Driven by a deep-seated passion for dance, our journey began with a vision to establish a distinguished platform that applauds excellence and dedication within the industry. As former dancers ourselves, we recognised the need for a singular, prestigious event that acknowledges the remarkable achievements of the past year. The Golden Dance Awards shine as a symbol of dedication and passion, celebrating the efforts and achievements of our diverse and vibrant dance community. Whether you're a dance school, studio owner, teacher, choreographer, dancer, artist, volunteer, feis, festival, or competition organiser, our awards offer a unique opportunity to bask in the spotlight and receive well-deserved recognition.
Looking ahead, our mission extends beyond celebration; we aspire to foster creativity, diversity, innovation, and excellence through ongoing support, education, and leadership within the dance community.
With a steadfast dedication to our cause, we pledge to elevate the Golden Dance Awards into the definitive dance event of our era. Join us as we applaud the finest talents and tireless efforts that fuel Ireland's dance landscape. Together, let's honour the individuals and organisations whose passion and dedication inspire us all.
The future is golden, and it’s yours to claim!
Catherine Hughes
Co-Founder
Danielle Hughes Quinn
Co-Founder
TITLE PARTNER
sponsors
CHARITY PARTNER
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MEET THE JUDGES
DARREN CASEY
Darren has had an extraordinary journey in the world of dance and beyond. Starting a successful competitive dance career at just 8 years old, he won worldwide titles until the age of 18, before joining the iconic Riverdance and touring the globe. Darren also won 'Got to Dance' with Prodijig, later co creating Footstorm, which sold out venues across the UK and Ireland. After returning to Riverdance for its anniversary tour, he transitioned into new roles, becoming a SM host, VIP host, and podcast host—where ‘Riverdance the podcast’ show hit #1.
Darren is absolutely thrilled to join the judging panel for the first-ever Golden Dance Awards, set to take Ireland by storm this September in Dublin. After having the honour of being on the panel for the inaugural Golden Dance Awards in Northern Ireland last October, he cannot wait to celebrate all things dance throughout the entire Isle of Ireland. This is such a special moment for the dance community, and he is so excited to be part of it!
SEAN TAAFFE
As the Director of Taaffe Training, Sean Taaffe leads one of the UK and Ireland’s most exciting dance programmes , now featuring a new college in Dublin and Associate Programmes in Dublin, Belfast, Liverpool, and Scotland.
With a career spanning years of professional experience with TV , Cruise Lines and touring shows, Sean brings world-class expertise to his teaching. A CYD Faculty Member and esteemed tutor at Shockout Arts, he is recognised as one of the UK’s top choreographers, celebrated for his innovative and dynamic approach to dance training.
Sean’s true passion lies in inspiring and mentoring the next generation of dancers. His classes are designed to challenge, uplift, and empower students, helping them reach their full potential both technically and creatively.
Sean is absolutely delighted to join this esteemed panel of judges for the first-ever Dance Awards to come to Ireland.
With his passion for mentoring and inspiring the next generation of dancers, Sean looks forward to witnessing the innovation and artistry these awards will showcase.
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KYLEE VINCENT
Born and raised in South Africa, Kylee Vincent developed a passion for dance at six, training in Latin, ballroom, ballet, hip hop and contemporary.
Kylee’s major achievements include winning the Dutch Open Latin Championships, U21 World Latin Championships, and the U21 Open British Latin Championships at Blackpool Festival.
Transitioning from competition to entertainment, she toured globally with Burn the Floor, taking on roles as company manager, dance captain and creative team member.
She has performed in musicals such as Rock of Ages and Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and danced on the West End in multiple touring shows. Most recently, she completed her fourth season on Dancing with the Stars Ireland, partnering with celebrities like Damian McGinty and Davy Russell.
Kylee is also a certified 500YTT yoga instructor.
It’s a true honour to be part of this inaugural event and to celebrate and recognise dance across Ireland. I cannot wait to see you all there for this special occasion!
INNA MAZURENKO
Inna Mazurenko is a Ukrainian professional dancer and choreographer, and a finalist of TV shows “Dancing with the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance” Ukraine.
As CEO of Udance Company, she organised dance championships such as World of Dance Ukraine, Feel The Beat, Global Talent.
Inna has 15 years of experience as an international judge and currently works with CoisCéim Dance Theatre and Dublin Dance Festival.
Inna is a Dance World Cup Ireland Qualifier representative.
Inna played a pivotal role in the first ever Dance Awards in Northern Ireland in October 2024. She is delighted with the expansion of the Golden Dance Awards coming on 13th September to Dublin, Ireland
JAMES PATRICE
Ready to shine a spotlight on the very best of Ireland’s vibrant and diverse dance scene, this glittering black-tie affair will be hosted by the effortlessly entertaining James Patrice, whose natural charm, humour, and love of the arts make him the perfect choice to lead the celebration.
Speaking about the partnership, James said: “I’m absolutely delira to be hosting this year’s Golden Dance Awards in Dublin! There’s so much passion and creativity in the dance community here, and I can’t wait to help celebrate the people who bring it all to life and tell their stories in the most fabulous way possible. Glitz, glamour and hairspray - my idea of a fabulous night! It’s going to be a guaranteed occasion to remember - with a few surprises along the way!”
BRIAN REDMOND
An award-winning Ballroom and Latin American dancer and a celebrated judge on RTÉ’s Dancing with the Stars. Known for his sharp eye and expertise in dance, Brian has become a beloved figure in Irish entertainment.
Beyond television, he’s a popular radio broadcaster on KCLR Radio hosting Kilkenny and Carlow’s mid morning show The KCLR Daily, where his passion for people and their stories shines through.
Brian also combines his love for dance and meeting people, when teaching adult dance classes in Kilkenny and Carlow. He continues to inspire and connect with audiences across Ireland through his dynamic media presence.
Award Categories
Special
recognition
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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Award
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Dance for Wellbeing Award
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Choreographer of the Year
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Up & Coming Choreographer of the Year
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Dance Teacher of the Year
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Dance Assistant of the Year
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Dance Parent Award
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Dance Costume Designer Award
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Community Engagement Dance Award
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Dance Photographer of the Year
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Lifetime Achievement Award (teaching 25+ years)
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Host of the Year
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Inspiring Ability Award
Dance/Performing arts
(PA) SCHOOL Awards
You will have the opportunity to nominate for a dance or performing arts school in each county across Ireland.
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Ulster: Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan
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Connacht: Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo.
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Leinster:Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, and Wicklow.
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Munster: Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford.
event AWARDS
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Event of the Year Dance Competition
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Event of the Year Feis
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Event of the Year Festival
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Event of the Year Project
dance in Education AWARD
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Best Dance Workshop Facilitator
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Training Programme of the year
DANCER of the year
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Aged 9 and under
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Aged 13 and under
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Aged 17 and under
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Aged 18 and over
Performing arts student
Award (Song and Dance)
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Aged 9 and under
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Aged 13 and under
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Aged 17 and under
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Aged 18 and over
Dance Style Excellence Award
This title reflects the recognition of a dance school’s outstanding commitment, dedication, and excellence within a particular dance style. Such as: Irish, Line, Highland Dancing, Jazz, Ballroom, Belly Dance, Salsa, Aerial Dance, Swing, Breakdance, Tap, Hiphop, Cheerleading, Acro, Contemporary, Ballet, Aerobic, Lyrical, Freestyle/Disco or Traditional Dance from your culture.
Solo Audition Entry
Golden Dance Awards Ireland:
Submission Guidelines
Please follow the instructions below to submit your audition video for either of the two categories.
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Categories
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Dancer of the Year - Submit a video of your favourite solo dance performance.
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Performing Arts Student of the Year - Submit a video highlighting your skills in singing and dancing.
Submission Process
1. Prepare Your Video
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Record or select your best performance in line with the category requirements of up to 2 minutes.
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Ensure your video clearly showcases your singing and dancing talents.
2. Submit Your Video
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Upload your video using WeTransfer or Dropbox.
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Email the video link to info@goldendanceawards.ie.
3. Include the Following Details
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Full Name of the Performer
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Dance/Performing Arts School Name
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Age Category
After Submission
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Review: Your entry will be evaluated by our esteemed judging panel.
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Notification: Finalists will be notified via email.
Dancer of the year
Ready to make your mark at the Golden Dance Awards? Follow these simple steps to join us:
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Select Your Category - Are you a Dance Teacher, Choreographer, Festival Organiser, Costume Designer, Photographer, or another creative professional? Choose your category—or submit entries in multiple categories to increase your chances!
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Highlight Your Achievements -Share your awards, recognitions, and career milestones that showcase your expertise and dedication to your craft.
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Stand Out from the Crowd - Showcase your creativity, unique vision, and the impact you’ve made on the dance community.
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Confirm Your Entry - Once reviewed, you’ll receive an email confirmation. (Pro tip: Check your spam folder to ensure you don’t miss any updates.)
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Prepare Your Portfolio - In the second stage, you’ll need to present your best work. Start curating your portfolio now!
Enter
For any questions beyond the nomination form, please leave your details below, and we’ll get back to you soon!
If you have any questions or queries please let us know and we will get back to you at our earliest convenience.
