Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
What are the Next Up Awards?
The Next Up Awards celebrate talented children in the performing arts, recognising young performers in areas such as musical theatre, dance, television and film.
Who can enter the Next Up Awards?
Children aged 5–16 years old who are involved in the performing arts. Both industry and non-industry performers are welcome to be nominated.
Why were the Next Up Awards created?
The awards were created to celebrate, encourage and recognise young talent while giving children exciting opportunities within the performing arts industry.
Are the awards connected to any industry events?
Yes. The Next Up Awards have partnered with Move It Dance Convention, the UK’s largest dance convention, giving young performers exciting opportunities to perform and gain exposure.
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Nominations
Who can nominate a child?
A parent or guardian can nominate a child.
Is there a nomination fee?
Yes. There is a £5 nomination fee per entry.
This small fee helps cover administration costs and reviewing each nomination submitted.
Can a child be nominated in more than one category?
Yes. A child can be nominated in multiple categories if they perform in different areas of the performing arts.
Is the Next Up Awards for all children in the world?
Next Up Awards was created to celebrate children in the performing arts sector in the United Kingdom only.
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How do I nominate someone?
Nominations can be submitted through our website:
www.nextupawards.co.uk
When do nominations close?
Nominations close on 31st March 2026 or once category limits have been reached, so we encourage submitting nominations early.
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Submitting Performance Tapes
What type of video should be submitted?
Non-Indusrty Categories: You can submit a short video showing the child performing, such as singing, dancing, acting or performing a monologue.
Industry Categories:
Musical & Theatre Categories - A self tape style video of them performing their dance, song or monologue they perform in their show.
Series, Commercial & Film Categories - A clip of the footage they are in that has been published.
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What if my child is currently performing in a theatre show and cannot film inside the theatre?
We understand filming is not allowed in many theatres. In this situation you can record a performance at home or in a rehearsal space, or provide details of the production they are currently appearing in.
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Can I submit footage from last year?
Yes. Our 2026 awards are for footage/performances between 1st January 2025 - 31st December 2025.
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Judging & Voting
What happens after nominations close?
Our Next Up Awards board members review every nomination submitted.
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How many finalists are chosen?
There are 3 chosen finalists in each category that go to the public vote. The public vote chooses the overall winners in each category and is announced at the awards ceremony.
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Is the public vote free?
Yes. Public voting is completely free.
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The Awards Ceremony
Do finalists have to pay to attend the ceremony?
No. All finalists attend the awards ceremony for FREE with one parent or guardian.
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Where is the awards ceremony held?
The awards ceremony takes place at a central London theatre, bringing together talented young performers from across the UK. This year our awards is on Saturday 6th June 2026. Theatre to be announced soon.
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Do finalists have to perform at the ceremony?
No. Finalists attend to celebrate their achievements. Some winners may be invited to perform, but this is not required.
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I want to nominate my child but we can't make it to the ceremony. Should I still apply?