Four Young Dancers Reach Final of Prestigious UK Competition

Four talented dancers from Northern Ireland have successfully advanced to the final of the UK Young Dancer programme, overcoming nearly 1,000 participants in the competition. The final will take place at the prestigious Royal Ballet and Opera House in London on September 7, 2025. This achievement follows months of rigorous mentoring from prominent figures in the world of dance, including Leanne Benjamin and Dame Arlene Phillips.

The finalists include Madison Crawford from Belfast, representing High Points Youth Ballet in the Classical category, and Maia McFall from Crumlin, who will compete in the 14-16 Theatre Category from The Doogan Dance Academy. Also advancing are Chloe Parker from Belfast, representing Kaleidoscope Gymnastics Cheer & Dance in the 17-19 Theatre Category, and Claudia Hunt from Coleraine, who is also competing in the 17-19 Theatre Category for Victoria Lagan Dance and Drama.

Expressing her excitement, Madison Crawford stated, “I am thrilled to be a UK Young Dancer Finalist for 2025. Bringing UKYD to Northern Ireland is a special opportunity, giving young talent here the chance to showcase their skills, connect with other dancers and expert teachers, and gain an invaluable experience that will leave a significant impact on our development as artists.”

Chloe Parker shared her gratitude, saying, “I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to participate in the UKYD programme. That it came to Belfast is absolutely amazing, and performing in London has always been a dream of mine. I never thought I would make it to the final, so it’s literally a dream come true for me. I wouldn’t have been able to get this far without my amazing teachers at Kaleidoscope who have supported me on my journey.”

Launched in 2023, the UK Young Dancer programme is a non-profit initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing the most promising young dancers across the UK. Leanne Benjamin expressed her enthusiasm for the talent displayed by the finalists, stating, “I have recently had the joy of coaching the 2025 UK Young Dancer Classical Finalists, alongside my dear friend Steven McRae, and we were bowled over by the talent on display. I can’t wait to see them shine at the Clore Studio Theatre at the Royal Ballet and Opera House in September.”

Dame Arlene Phillips also praised the programme, commenting, “I am so proud of the UK Young Dancer programme, now in its third year. Having worked with the 2025 Finalists, I am excited to see how they bring their narrative to the Royal Opera House in September. UKYD provides a pathway to the profession; it is not a battle against everyone else in the room but a coming together to tell your own story through dance.”

As these young dancers prepare for the final, they represent the incredible talent emerging from Northern Ireland, showcasing their dedication and passion for the art of dance. The upcoming event promises to be a significant milestone in their artistic journeys.