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.
1. Portadown Dance Festival
Yvie Neill dances in the Ballet Solo 9-10 Years class on Thursday morning.PT17-202. Photo: Tony Hendron
2. Portadown Dance Festival
Connie Kinkead, who was awarded second place in the Novice Ballet Solo 9-10 Years class. PT17-217. Photo: Tony Hendron
3. Portadown Dance Festival
Mya Mason who was awarded runner-up spot in the Ballet Solo 9-10 Years class on Thursday. PT17-210. Photo: Tony Hendron
4. Portadown Dance Festival
Brooke McConkey finishes off her dance with a flourish in the Ballet Solo 9-10 Years section of Portadown Dance Festival. PT17-203. Photo: Tony Hendron