Inside the Miss Dance Team Colorado Solo Championship
A Dance Team World Deep Dive
Last weekend, I had the chance to experience the Miss Dance Team Colorado Solo Championship firsthand… and let me tell you, it was something special! Hosted at Eaglecrest High School in Aurora, this event is only in its second year, but it’s already doubled in size and is quickly becoming a must-watch for the dance team world.
This was my first time flying into Denver, and although the landing was a little intense (life-threatening turbulence, anyone?), everything that followed made the trip absolutely worth it.
A Growing Stage for Colorado’s Dancers
The Miss Dance Team Colorado event brought together dancers from across the state: elementary, middle, and high school dancers (all under one roof). The gym was beautifully set up with event lighting and a sleek backdrop, giving the whole competition a professional yet intimate vibe. The atmosphere felt fresh, energetic, and deeply supportive, which is what this movement is all about.
Breaking Down the Format
The day began with the senior division (12th grade), and their schedule was stacked. First up was the interview portion, where dancers answered questions in a private setting with the judges. While I couldn’t film this section, I did capture some behind-the-scenes footage of dancers getting ready in the hallway, nervously and excitedly awaiting their turn.
Next came the technique spotlight routines, performed in a closed gym with just the judges and event staff present. This unique “star” format (also used in other Miss Dance Team title events) allows each dancer to showcase their individual strengths up-close in a controlled setting.
Once those elements wrapped up, the gym doors opened to the public and dancers in all grade levels took the floor for their full solo performance routines.
Meanwhile, out in the foyer, local vendors filled the space with booths representing dance studios, training programs, and other services. It created a fun, community-first energy that gave dancers and families a full day of inspiration.
Dancers of All Ages
Throughout the day, the event alternated performances between grade-level soloists, from middle school through underclassmen and up to seniors. This allowed judges to stay focused while also giving younger dancers the chance to watch and learn from the older performers. The judging panel included a former national solo titleholder and other dance professionals, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the scoring table.
A Showcase with Heart
Before the final awards, we got to witness a truly moving performance by a local dance abilities program, showcasing dancers with a variety of developmental and physical abilities. The audience reaction was incredible (standing ovation level energy). It was the kind of moment that reminds you why dance matters and how events like this create space in the dance team world for everyone to be seen.
A Clear & Fair Awards Process
The awards ceremony was broken down into multiple layers of recognition…
First, awards were presented by grade level from Middle School, and then underclassmen. But the big awards were meant especially for the senior division. 12th graders weren’t judged by just one number; they were celebrated for each element of the senior-division solo competition:
- Top 5 Interview Scores
- Top 5 Technique Spotlight Scores
- Top 5 Solo Routine Scores
Finally, the Top 5 overall senior division scores were announced, combining all three elements. From this final group, the female dancer with the highest total score was crowned Miss Dance Team Colorado, and the top-scoring male dancer earned the title of Mr. Dance Team Colorado.
This clear and transparent awards process gave every participant something to be proud of. And the energy in the room was unforgettable! Coaches, teammates, and families filled the gym with cheers, celebrating each finalist and what they had achieved together.
Final Thoughts
Major applause goes out to event directors Kelly Helm and Brandi Carlson, who created an event that’s equal parts polished, heartfelt, and forward-thinking. It’s exciting to watch the Miss Dance Team Colorado program grow into something that celebrates not just talent, but leadership, sportsmanship, and connection within the dance team community.
I’m proud to support events like this and even more excited to see what the future holds for these dancers. Keep an eye on Colorado… because there’s something really special happening here.
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