Comp kids, you truly are one singular sensation—and nowhere was that clearer than at Nationals 2018. In every style and in every city, you raised the bar higher than ever before. As the 2018–19 Regionals season kicks off this month, let's take a minute to relive the most thrilling, attention-getting, and just plain amazing moments of this summer's Nationals.
1. Purple Rain
From amethyst to lavender to eggplant to violet, purple poured onto Nationals stages all across the country.
2. Let's Hear It for the Boys
It seems like every year the gender ratio at Nationals evens out just a liiiiiiiittle bit more. Here's to all the young male dancers who are proving that, yes, #BoysDanceToo.
3. Personality Front and Center
Talk about stage presence: We lived for the many moments when dancers came center stage to wow the judges with the best of all possible attitudes.
4. Haute Hip-Hoppers
Coming in first place for "Fiercest Trend of 2018" is the veritable army of hip-hop dancers swarming stages at tons of Nationals. There's nothing that pumps the judges up more than a clean, energetic hip-hop routine!
5. Perfect Partnering
No matter the genre, it's wonderful to see male/female, female/female, and male/male partner work. We see you sharing weight, moving cohesively, and working together—and it's AMAZING!
6. Long Skirts
Swish and flick, indeed! Knee- and midi-length skirts cast spells on audiences and judges alike this year.
7. Pop Goes the Pop Culture
We're looking at you, Michael Jackson…and Alexander Hamilton…and Dr. Seuss! This year, dance drew some serious inspo from books, pop music, and so much more.
8. Musical Theater Takes Center Stage
Musical theater categories are a bit fuller nowadays—and we love it! Your personalities shine through and capture the essence of the Broadway shows we love.
9. What's Black-and-White All Over?
Your uber-polished costuming, that's what! This classic color combo allowed us to focus on what was really well-suited: your dancing.
10. Strong-armed
Dead, limp arms? Not while y'all are around. Attack, speed, and strength found new meaning this year in your confident, decisive port de bras.
A version of this story appeared in the October 2018 issue of Dance Spirit with the title "Sensational Nationals."