Following the success of the inaugural Gwobrau Dawns Cymru / Wales Dance Awards earlier this year, the competition will return to Pontio, Bangor, on Sunday 9th November 2025 – and organisers promise it will be bigger and better than ever.
The event is organised by Ceri Bostock and Chloe Ellis of Byd Bach CIC, supported by Bangor City Council in partnership with Pontio, and celebrates the outstanding dance talent of young people from across the region and beyond.
This year’s awards will see exciting developments, including the introduction of a Musical Theatre section, a dedicated Solos category (already fully booked), and the participation of dance schools from Liverpool for the very first time.
Local performers will also have the chance to shine, with Performing Arts students from Coleg Menai opening the Musical Theatre section and showcasing their skills in front of a packed audience.
Speaking ahead of the event, organiser Ceri Bostock said: “The response to the first Gwobrau Dawns Cymru was phenomenal, and we are thrilled to see it grow so quickly. This year we’re bringing even more opportunities for dancers to showcase their creativity, and we can’t wait to welcome talent from across North Wales and further afield.”
Dr Martin Hanks, City Director of Bangor, added: “It’s fantastic to see Bangor hosting such a dynamic celebration of creativity and talent. Events like Gwobrau Dawns Cymru not only provide young people with a platform to shine, but also bring communities together and showcase our city as a hub for culture and the arts.”
The competition features a wide range of styles, including Street, Hip Hop, Disco, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Open categories. Every participant receives a medal, underlining the event’s commitment to celebrating achievement at all levels.
While the Solos section is now full, limited places remain in other categories. Dance schools and groups are encouraged to get in touch as soon as possible via bydbachcic@hotmail.com
Looking ahead, the organisers have confirmed the next competition date will be Sunday 19th April 2026, once again at Pontio, Bangor.
Any businesses interested in supporting the event can email bydbachcic@hotmail.com to request a sponsorship package.
Picture shows photos from previous dance competitions (Photo credits Mel Parry).
