The current decade has seen an upsurge in reality television programming, as the interest of the television viewing audience has shifted dramatically. People are so in tune with getting true life entertainment from television and as such many cable channels have included reality programming as part of their regular schedules. Dance competitions have also become hugely popular on many cable networks, allowing people to be entertained by both professional and amateur dancers who compete for fabulous prizes and the opportunity to break into stardom.

Dance competitions range from world championship type competitions to amateur television competitions for the entertainment of the viewing audience at home. Competitive dance, also referred to as Dance Sport, has become very popular and widespread as the dancers perform a wide range of styles. Especially on most reality TV programs, dance team competitions see the artists utilizing techniques like ballet, hip-hop, jazz and tap. And of course, many of them put their own spin on existing dance techniques and give them a new identity and additional flair.

Most dance competitions usually start out with regional competitions that aim to identify the best talent in various regions of the country. Tours are done to major cities and give hopeful dancers the opportunity to show their talent and hopefully gain a spot in the next round of whichever competition they want to enter. It is usually recommended that dancers interested in competing are physically fit because of how physically demanding the art of dancing is. Although it may seem to viewers that the dancers are just enjoying themselves, many of them spend months maintaining their fitness, improving their technique and learning how to balance strength and artistry.

Usually, regional dance competitions are held in high school auditoriums and community center that have a stage and an area for judges to rate the performances. After dancers qualify for the national competitions, the auditions move to major metropolitan areas and the competitions take place in conference rooms or convention centers. The national competitions can often times last for 1 to 2 weeks, and not only do they allow that dancers the chance to show their talent, but also offers to them dance classes and workshops as well as vital information that will help them in their dancing career.

Although technique and creativity are two key factors that are focused on in dance competitions, the spirit of competition is also something that is emphasized by many production companies and hosts of the competitions. Although being a dancer in a competition means you will have people that you are going up against, it is usually viewed as an opportunity to learn from other dancers and improve your craft.

Entering dance competitions is a healthy way to entertain yourself and an audience, as well as maintain your fitness and creativity. Regardless of the level you are at, there is always a competition you can enter. You may not win every one of them, but there is always something you can learn each time that will help to improve your chances in future competitions.