Adjudicator Carrie Ellis was given a warm welcome and treated to some first rate performances by eager young dancers.
Photographer Tony Hendron went along on the opening day to capture some of the atmosphere of the festival, which runs until Friday, May 5.
13. Portadown Dance Festival
Winner of the Ballet Solo 9-10 Years class on Thursday morning, Caitlin McCusker. PT17-207. Photo: Tony Hendron
14. Portadown Dance Festival
Edith Mitchell glides across the stage in the Ballet Solo 9-10 Years section at Portadown Dance Festival on Thursday. PT17-208. Photo: Tony Hendron
15. Portadown Dance Festival
Grace Vallely performs her routine in the Novice Ballet Solo 9-10 Years section of Portadown Dance Festival on Thursday morning. PT17-211. Photo: Tony Hendron
16. Portadown Dance Festival
Cutting a graceful figure onstage in the Ballet Solo 9-10 Years section of Portadown Dance Festival is Olivia Stothers. PT17-206. Photo: Tony Hendron