HBCU NEXT 2026 All‑Star Dance Experience high‑impact, dance experience designed to prepare high‑school dancers for the expectations, culture, and performance standards of HBCU dance, flag line and baton twirling programs.
What is HBCU NEXT?
HBCU NEXT is a premier All‑Star performance experience held during the HBCU Auxiliary & Dance Directors Association (HBCUADD) Conference. The program brings together elite high‑school dancers, flag twirlers and baton twirlers for intensive training with HBCU coaches and collegiate dancers, stand sessions, college readiness conversations, and a featured performance opportunity.
All registered performers are recognized as HBCU NEXT All‑Stars. From this group, 16–20 performers will be selected to perform in the official HBCU NEXT Showcase Performance.
2026 Event Details
Dates: March 25–28, 2026
Location: Stone Mountain, Georgia
Host Hotel: Official conference hotel (Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort)
We strongly recommend all dancers stay at the host hotel to receive the full benefit of the HBCU NEXT experience, including rehearsals, late‑night adjustments, safety, and team bonding. There may be opportunities to share lodging expenses with other All-stars.
Presented by: HBCU Auxiliary & Dance Directors Association (HBCUADD)
Who Can Participate?
• High‑school dancers, flag twirlers and baton twirlers only (grades 9–11)
• HBCU‑style team performers
• Students must be actively affiliated with a high‑school coach or director.
Coaches must serve as the primary point of contact.; parents attend as observers only.
Training & Rehearsal Schedule
Thursday & Friday
Start Time: 8:00 AM
End Time: Evening (exact time varies by day)
Daily Activities Include:
Technique & conditioning
Stand sessions (multiple HBCU styles)
Cleaning, spacing, and performance quality
Showcase choreography (for selected performers)
Attendance for the full rehearsal block is required to remain eligible for Showcase selection.
HBCU NEXT Showcase
Featured performance during the HBCUADD Conference
Showcases HBCU style, precision, stamina, and presence
Selected performers will receive:
Official Showcase recognition
Performance media (photo/video)
Certificate of Achievement
Uniform & Appearance
Black practice attire
Dance shoes or sneakers
Hair secured; no long nails or dangling jewelry
Showcase uniform details will be provided to selected dancers sponsor by Chic Dancewear
Lodging & Travel
All performers are responsible for travel to the conference location and lodging
Strongly recommended: stay at the official Stone Mountain host hotel
Ensures access to early‑morning rehearsals, evening practices, safety oversight, and full immersion in the HBCU NEXT experience
Code of Conduct
All participants are expected to:
Be punctual and prepared
Maintain respectful behavior
Follow staff instructions at all times
Represent their school, coach, and HBCUADD with excellence
Failure to follow conduct guidelines may result in removal from Showcase consideration.
Why HBCU NEXT?
Real exposure to HBCU performance culture
Direct access to HBCU coaches and leaders
College‑level rehearsal intensity
A true NEXT‑LEVEL experience for serious performers
Possible opportunities to represent HBCUADD in requested performances.
Contact & Updates
Program inquiries: katherine.callahan@yahoo.com
If your team is interested in a fundraising opportunity to help cover the cost of attending the conference, I’ll be sharing more details soon.
Coach resources & submissions: Headshot and Video submission is Due February 6th by 12 midnight.
Follow updates: ig:@hbcu.aux.dance.directors
Train like a collegiate performer. Perform with purpose. Become NEXT.