07/04/2026
✨ What an incredible week at Ultimate Dance Nationals at Navy Pier! ✨
Our dancers had an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. They trained with some of the industry's top professionals in inspiring convention classes, walked the red carpet at the spectacular Black & Gold Gala, enjoyed a live band, competed on state-of-the-art stages, and experienced the excitement that makes Ultimate Dance Nationals one of the premier events in the country—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Chicago skyline.
One of the highlights of the week was the coveted Pac Attack Buzzer, awarded for exceptional performances. We were thrilled that most of our soloists earned this incredible honor! Our groups were equally impressive, earning the Pac Attack Buzzer in 5 of our 6 Jazz and Hip Hop routines—an extraordinary achievement at an event featuring more than 2500 performances across four stages.
Our dancers also had the opportunity to compete in the exciting Solo Dance-Offs and Finals, making this an experience they will never forget.
Most importantly, they represented Rise Up Academy with passion, artistry, professionalism, and heart. We couldn't be prouder of every dancer who took the stage.
🏆 Competition Highlights
🥇 National Champions
• Proud Mary
• Nothing Else Matters
• Purple Rain
• Someone Else's Dream
• Boots - Liz-Elena Rodriguez
• Coachella
• In Portofino - Deniz Birgun
• Pierrot - Elizabeth Stoitzev
• Burn
• Feeling Good - Jasiel Jarrett
• Prayer of the Children
• Half the World Away
• Rapture
• Million Dollar Man- Lydia Gunn
• Won't You -Lelia Easter
• Shot Me Down
• Voice of God
• Come On Dreamer
• Gasoline Rainbows
• Sway
• Sea of Ash - Zara Dinev
• Hushabye
🥈 Runner-Up
• Big Noise
• Business of Love
• Home With You - Eva Lapys
• Disappear
• Turning Tables
• We're in the Money
• Part of Your World
• Horse With the Wings - Alethea Cepa
• Heartstrings
• Me and My Shadow
🥉 3rd Place
• The Winner Takes It All - Inesa Koval
• Money Makes the World Go Round - Lorelei Butcher
• Is That All There Is
• Dressed as a Shadow
• Stormy Weather
🌟 Artist of the Year 2026
🏆 Artist of the Year Winner - Emma Zagorov with:
• All Coming Back
• Lady
• Where Do I Begin
🥈 Artist of the Year Runner-Up - Zara Cheshmedzhiev with:
• Frozen
• Hit Me With Your Best Shot
• Moon River
What makes these accomplishments even more meaningful is the caliber of the event itself. With more than 2500 routines, four competition stages, world-class judges, incredible production, inspiring convention faculty, and one of the most exciting Finals experiences in the country, Ultimate Dance Nationals continues to raise the standard for competitive dance.
To every dancer, parent, choreographer, teacher, and staff member—thank you for your passion, dedication, and countless hours of hard work. These results are a reflection of your commitment, resilience, and love for the art of dance.
Congratulations, Rise Up Academy! We couldn't be prouder of everything you accomplished this week. Here's to an unforgettable Nationals and an even brighter season ahead! 💙✨
