2026 Dance Expo Recap: A Memorable Weekend in Franklin, Tennessee

Our 2026 Dance Expo experience in Franklin, Tennessee was truly one for the books. From exceptional dancing to a cozy, spirited ballroom atmosphere, this competition weekend was filled with growth, celebration, and unforgettable moments—despite the snowy winter backdrop outside.

While the temperatures were cold, the ballroom was warm with energy, encouragement, and excitement. Dance Expo continues to be a standout competition, offering a welcoming and professional environment that supports both first-time competitors and seasoned dancers. This year marked the 21st anniversary of Dance Expo, and it remains just as special as ever.

We are especially proud to celebrate Michele McMahon, who competed in her very first ballroom competition. Michelle delivered an outstanding debut performance, placing first, second, and third in most of her dances. Her confidence, preparation, and determination truly shone on the dance floor, and we could not be more proud of her accomplishments. This was an incredible first step in her competition journey, and we are excited to see where the rest of the year takes her.

Our professionals also had strong performances across multiple divisions:

• Januel and Zoe competed in Pre-Championship, earning second place, and went on to dance in Open Smooth, placing fourth.

• Donna and Januel represented us beautifully in Open Rhythm, earning a third-place finish.

• Michael and Zoe competed in the Novice Division and brought home an impressive first-place win.

A special highlight of the weekend was an exquisite Argentine Tango performances

by Roxana Marinoff and Cesar Dávalos, presented during Saturday evening dinner. Their performance was nothing short of breathtaking—rich in musicality, precision, and emotional depth. The connection, artistry, and storytelling they brought to the floor completely captivated the room, creating a truly memorable experience for everyone in attendance. It was a rare and beautiful moment to pause, enjoy dinner, and be immersed in such a high-level, world-class performance. Their tango added an extra layer of elegance and inspiration to an already incredible weekend.

One of the most meaningful and unique aspects of Dance Expo is its annual Legends of Dance Awards, honoring both an amateur and a professional who have made a lasting impact on the dance community. These tributes are always a highlight of the weekend and a reminder of the depth, history, and heart within our industry.

This year, the Amateur Legend of Dance Award was presented to Elaine Hammond of Hendersonville, Tennessee, recognizing her dedication and influence as an amateur dancer. The Professional Legends of Dance Award was awarded to Darryl and Stephanie Campbell of DC Dance Factory. Darryl and Stephanie are not only outstanding professionals but also passionate studio owners who dedicate their work to training, encouraging, and shaping the next generation of dancers. Many of today’s professional dancers began their journey at DC Dance Factory, and several professionals within our broader studio network now have children dancing there. Their impact on the industry is undeniable, and it is always special to see them honored.

Beyond the competition itself, Dance Expo is also known for its incredible atmosphere. Hosted at Liberty Hall at The Factory in Franklin, the venue is one of our absolute favorites. The aesthetic, layout, and warmth of the space create an inviting and memorable experience for dancers and spectators alike. The Factory is home to wonderful restaurants and artisanal shops, making it a joy to explore between sessions.

Franklin, Tennessee itself is the perfect backdrop for this event. The town offers a cozy, charming, and homey feel that makes the weekend feel like a true getaway. With its historic character and welcoming atmosphere, it feels as though you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie.

Competitions like Dance Expo are about so much more than placements. They are about community, growth, shared experiences, and celebrating the journey together. We are already looking forward to next year’s Dance Expo and hope to see even more of our students join us on the dance floor.

Congratulations again to Michele on an exceptional first competition, and thank you to everyone who made this weekend such a success. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead and many more memorable moments to come.