Gpaa Competition 2026
From the Heart of the West End to the Soul of the UAE
11th April 2026
Whether you’re representing a school, a studio, or performing as an individual, this is your chance to showcase your artistry in front of an audience of industry professionals, West End choreographers, and creative leaders who are shaping the future of performing arts.
Time until GPAA Competition 2026
What Is the GPAA Competition?
The GPAA Competition is the UAE’s leading Musical Theatre and Dance event, founded by Solange Urdang OBE to bring the professionalism, energy, and inclusivity of London’s performing arts scene to the Middle East.
The competition provides an authentic performance platform that celebrates diversity, creativity, and skill — inspiring young artists to dream big and perform even bigger.
Every year, the stage welcomes hundreds of students from schools and academies across the region, competing in a variety of styles including:
Musical Theatre Performance
Ballet and Contemporary Dance
Jazz and Commercial
Acting Through Song
Each performance is assessed by a panel of international judges, including West End professionals and choreographers, who provide constructive feedback to help students grow in both confidence and technique.
What Makes GPAA 2026 Special
The 2026 competition promises new opportunities for young artists across the UAE.
Here’s what to expect:
Expanded Categories
New performance divisions for different age groups and team structures, ensuring fair and inspiring competition.
World-Class Judging Panel
Leading industry figures from the West End and global stage offering professional critique and mentorship.
Workshops and Masterclasses
Exclusive pre-event workshops designed to help participants prepare with confidence, guided by Urdang International and other expert partners.
Professional Stage Experience
State-of-the-art lighting, sound, and staging to mirror the feel of a professional West End production.
A Celebration of Talent and Community
At its core, the GPAA Competition is about celebrating the performing arts as a global language — one that connects passion, creativity, and culture.
The event welcomes performers from all backgrounds, nurturing a sense of belonging, collaboration, and pride in every dancer, actor, and singer who steps on stage.Here’s what to expect: