Showstopper

America’s First Dance Competition Is Celebrating Its 40th Anniversary!

By Nikki Cole

April 02, 2018

Showstopper National Finals Opening Number Performance

Showstopper has been making its impact on the dance world since 1978. Before then, dancers didn’t have a stage to perform on, the opportunity to learn from peers, or a competitive outlet like most sports. Debbie Roberts recognized this missing piece in the dance community and that is how America’s first and longest-running dance competition, Showstopper, was born. Debbie taught dance for over 26 years and owned and operated her own dance studio for 20 years. She is now the owner and National Director of Showstopper, alongside her husband, Dave Roberts. Dancer, teacher, business owner, author, and mother, Debbie has made dance her life’s career.