FAPA & Competition
A dance competition is a structured event where dancers of all ages and levels perform choreographed routines in front of a panel of professional judges. These competitions are held locally, nationally, and internationally, and they evaluate dancers based on technique, performance quality, musicality, stage presence, and overall execution. Dancers may compete solo or in groups in styles such as ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, acro, lyrical, and more.
From small steps to soaring heights...
A Beautiful FAPA Journey:
At just 7 years old, she stepped into the studio with wide eyes, a shy smile, and a heart full of dreams. She didn’t know it then, but her journey with the French Academy of Performing Arts (FAPA USVI) would change her life forever. Guided by the passion and unwavering dedication of her teacher and head coach, Miss Lea, this young lady transformed from a beginner learning her first pliés to a national superstar gracing stages across the country.
Through years of rigorous training, mentorship, and love, FAPA became more than just a dance school—it became her second home. Miss Lea poured time, energy, and soul into her development, recognizing the spark of talent and nurturing it with discipline, opportunity, and constant encouragement. Under Miss Lea’s coaching, she not only refined her craft but rose to win national competitions, earn thousands of dollars in scholarships, and inspire other young dancers on their own paths.
On our small island, opportunities in the arts can often feel out of reach—but FAPA exists to break barriers and build bridges. We open the door for young artists to leap beyond the horizon, providing professional training and elite-level experiences that lead to success on both national and international stages.
Her story is one of many. At FAPA USVI, we believe every child with a dream deserves a chance to shine—and with hard work, heart, and the right guidance, they truly can soar.
The Importance of Dance Competitions:
Ages 4-8
Mini Division
Ages 9-12
Juniors Division
Ages 13-17
Teens Division
Ages 18+
Senior Division
Parent Classes
Teacher Classes
Industry Panel
College Scholarships
Talent Scouting
Celeb Workshops
1. Skill Development – Competitions push dancers to perfect their technique, build stamina, and improve their artistry under pressure.
2. Goal Setting and Discipline – Preparing for a competition requires time, consistency, and focus. It teaches dancers to set goals and work steadily to achieve them.
3. Confidence Building – Performing in front of audiences and judges helps dancers overcome stage fright and develop self-assurance.
4. Feedback and Growth – Judges provide professional critiques that dancers and teachers use to improve and grow.
5. Teamwork and Camaraderie – Group performances encourage trust, unity, and support among dancers, building lasting friendships.
6. Exposure and Opportunity – Competitions often lead to scholarships, professional networking, and invitations to elite programs or schools.
7. Passion and Performance – Competitions celebrate the joy of dance and performance, helping young dancers fall in love with their craft.
Career- Oriented Benefits ...
Dance competitions offer far more than trophies and applause—they are powerful stepping stones for building a successful, career-focused path in the performing arts. Here are some key benefits that prepare young dancers for future opportunities:
Benefits of participating in dance competitions...
1. Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
Many competitions award scholarships to top dancers for prestigious summer intensives, conservatories, and college dance programs. These can lead to reduced tuition or fully funded training experiences.
2. Professional Exposure
Competitions are often judged by industry professionals—choreographers, directors, and agents—who can offer mentorship, job opportunities, or invitations to elite training programs and companies.
3. Portfolio and Resume Building
Winning or placing in high-level competitions strengthens a dancer’s resume and audition portfolio, showcasing their skill and dedication to casting directors, colleges, and dance companies.
4. Audition Readiness
Competing trains dancers to handle pressure, perform with confidence, and adapt quickly—skills essential for auditions in professional settings, including Broadway, cruise lines, theme parks, and touring companies.
5. Versatility and Experience
Dancers are exposed to various styles and performance settings, making them more adaptable and well-rounded—traits highly valued in the dance industry.
6. Connections and Networking
Competitions connect dancers with peers and professionals across the nation and internationally. These relationships can open doors to collaborations, contracts, and performance opportunities in the future.
7. Work Ethic and Professionalism
Dancers learn to manage time, accept critique, rehearse independently, and perform with professionalism—habits that translate directly into a successful career.
Transform yourself...
At FAPA USVI, we use competitions not just as a platform to perform, but as a launchpad to propel our dancers toward careers in the arts, whether on stage, in film, education, choreography, or beyond. We believe that with guidance, training, and the right opportunities, our dancers can turn their passion into a lifelong profession.