The 2024 Industry Dance Awards, held on October 7th at the iconic Avalon Hollywood, brought together the best in the dance industry to honor exceptional performances and inspire future generations. With Executive Producer Noah Lands, President Adrian Ruiz, Director of Philanthropic Initiatives Jessalynn Siwa, and Director Jackie Sleight, this event was a stunning celebration of the dance community’s talent and resilience. The night also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting Dancers Against Cancer (DAC), whose mission lies at the heart of the event.
Hosts Phil Wright and Tia Stokes kept the energy high throughout the evening, and the event opened with a show-stopping performance from the Los Angeles Jazz Company. Beyond the awards and performances, the event was centered on raising funds for DAC, aiming to surpass previous records in supporting dancers and their families battling cancer.
The event featured several honorees across multiple categories, recognizing both emerging talent and established icons:
• Future Visionary: BossBaby Brody – Presented by: Phil Wright
• Viral Trendsetters: Cost n’ Mayor – Presented by: Scott Hoying
• Breakthrough Artist: Autumn Miller – Presented by: Blake McGrath
• Social Star Award: The Pitman Sisters – Presented by: Mollee Gray
• Educator of the Year: Brian Friedman – Presented by: Brian’s Former Assistants
2024 Industry Dance Awards Winners:
• Favorite Convention Teacher: Sasha Farber
• Best Jazz Performance: Motivate – Motivate Performing Arts Centre
• Best Lyrical/Modern/Contemporary Performance: It’s Been A Year – New Focus Dance Academy
• Best Tap Performance: Wait For It – Michelle Ferraro’s Dance USA
• Best Musical Theatre/Novelty/Character Performance: Corny – Elite Academy of Dance
• Best Hip Hop Performance: Father Stretch – Temecula Dance Company
• Best Open/Acro/Ballet Performance: Run – Dancer’s Edge Studio
• Choreography of the Year: Labyrinth – Suzette’s Masters Of Dance
• Best Performance of 2024: Bag Lady – 24-7 Danceforce
• People’s Choice 2024: Burning House – Once Upon A Dream
The coveted People’s Choice Award, determined by public voting, was proudly won by Burning House from Once Upon A Dream, showcasing the very best from regional competitions throughout the year.
Directed by Jackie Sleight, the 2024 Industry Dance Awards highlighted the power of dance to unite and inspire. It honored the incredible dancers and choreographers who continue to push boundaries, while also emphasizing the need for the community to come together to support those affected by cancer through DAC. The evening ended on a high note, filled with hope, inspiration, and a sense of unity that reminded everyone in attendance of the profound impact dance has on their lives.
Stay tuned for updates on the 2025 Industry Dance Awards!
