New York is taking its flamenco scene to the next level with a brand-new competition for pre-professional dancers. This fall, Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana and the Center for Flamenco Arts will host the first ever New York State Flamenco Certamen. Designed to emulate regional dance competitions in Spain, the event is open to students 18 and older, who live, work or study in the state of New York.

After the August 1 application deadline, 10 finalists will be chosen to receive eight hours of free studio time in NYC, as well as coaching from a flamenco professional and one dress rehearsal with a live guitarist and singer.

October 10, each finalist and their assigned musicians will perform for a panel of judges in Lincoln Center’s Bruno Walter Auditorium at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts in New York City. Winners will receive cash prizes and additional practice time at the Center for Flamenco Arts to continue working on their craft. The competition will be open to the public.