Inside Dance Team Union Nationals: America’s Most Intense Competition Experience

What’s up Dance Team World? It’s Activate, reporting from sunny Orlando, Florida, where I just attended Dance Team Union Nationals for the first time — and let me tell you, this event delivered. Here’s your full behind-the-scenes look at one of the most organized and exciting national competitions out there.

? First Impressions: Branding, Hospitality & Experience

From the second you walk into the Hyatt Regency Orlando, it’s clear that Dance Team Union (DTU) knows how to create a premium experience. DTU branding is everywhere — even the hotel check-in desk has signage. The vibe is pro-level.

Teams check in just downstairs to get welcome packets, wristbands, and all competition materials. Your registration feeincludes:

  • Hotel accommodations
  • Airport transfers
  • Admission to the event
  • Fan t-shirt
  • Breakfast options
  • Masterclass dance workshops before competition even starts

Bonus? The Hyatt is minutes from Universal Orlando and 15 minutes from Disney. Theme park core, anyone?

? Three Arenas, Endless Action

DTU Nationals spans three performance arenas (Edit: actually they’ve grown to four since this initial post):

  • Arena A: The biggest venue, with stadium seating inside a convention ballroom
  • Arena B: Just down the hall from Arena A
  • Arena C: Across the street in a full performing arts theater

All floors are Marley-covered with sprung subfloors to ensure safety for jumps, tricks, and turns.

? Competition Flow: Smooth, Fair & Competitive

Each team is given a designated warm-up time with a private Marley space. From there, they’re escorted to a long backstage hallway before arriving at the on-deck area.

After performing, teams can immediately view an instant replay and may even be selected for a live stream interview.

All routines go through prelims first. Based on scores:

  • Some teams go straight to finals
  • Some advance to semifinals for another shot
  • Others do not advance

This means some teams perform up to three times in pursuit of the national title.

? DTU Battle: The Ultimate Showdown

Once all divisions finish finals, DTU hosts the legendary DTU Battle. High-scoring routines from similar styles/ages face off in a hype-filled head-to-head format.

The vibe? Think nighttime showcase meets dance battle. According to DTU’s leadership, the event has outgrown its current space and will move to a larger convention arena next season. The hype is real.

? Awards, Scholarships & Celebration

After the battle, DTU rolls right into scholarships, soloist awards, and division placements. Whether your team made finals, semifinals, or not at all — this is when you’ll find out your official national ranking.

Winners get:

  • Trophies (they’re HUGE)
  • Championship banners & jackets
  • Merch + swag

Pro tip: Bring an extra suitcase to ship home your prize — or grab a shipping box from the on-site UPS store!

? Thank You, DTU

Major gratitude to DTU owners Laura King, Dave Sanchez, and Corey Smith for:

  • Covering my hotel & meals
  • Inviting me to experience this firsthand
  • Hosting an amazing brunch the next day where we got to collaborate and talk shop

We even discussed exciting developments for the future — some of which are still under wraps, but trust me… you’ll want to stay tuned.

? Why DTU Matters

DTU Nationals isn’t just a competition — it’s a full dance team experience with:

  • Studio, All Star AND school divisions
  • Junior high, middle school, and all-star categories
  • Masterclass workshops
  • Real industry support

They even added lyrical and open divisions, making it more appealing to West Coast and studio-influenced teams.

Fun fact: DTU also helped me figure out my virtual nationals live stream setup during the 2020 lockdown. Full circle moment. And I’m so grateful for their support and genuine friendship.

✨ Thinking About Attending?

Wondering if DTU is right for your team? Let’s chat.

  • DM me on Instagram
  • Or hit up DanceTeamWorld.com

My consultations are generally free. As a long-time coach myself, I know what a team looks for in a nationals experience. And DTU? Delivers! PERIODT!

— Activate
DanceTeamWorld.com