ARE YOU THE NEXT SHOWSTOPPER?! National Talent Competition Returns to NYC

The N'Kenge Foundation has announced the return of its national talent competition, Are You the Next Showstopper?!, with video submissions now open and a live final scheduled for June 12, 2026 at the Lotte New York Palace.

Now in its second year, the competition invites young performers from across the United States to submit audition videos in disciplines including singing, acting, dance, and instrumental performance. The submission deadline is May 1, 2026, with selected finalists advancing to perform live before an audience of industry professionals in New York City.

Finalists will compete for scholarship opportunities and a People’s Choice Award cash prize. One participant will receive the Grand Prize, which includes an all-expenses-paid trip to the Ultimate International Performing Arts Summer Program, taking place in Italy from July 6 through July 20, 2026. The program offers training, mentorship, and performance opportunities for emerging artists.

“This competition is about creating real pathways for young artists,” said N'Kenge. “We want students to know their dreams are valid, their gifts matter, and the stage is waiting for them.”

The competition is designed to provide performance opportunities, industry exposure, and educational resources for rising BIPOC artists, with a focus on fostering artistic development and access to professional pathways.

Audition Information