Couples Kick Up First Dance With Showstopping Performances

From choreographed routines to musical theater numbers, newlyweds are putting on full productions for their first dances.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Couples are finding creative ways to make their first dance at weddings a true spectacle, moving beyond the traditional slow dance. From elaborate choreographed routines with backup dancers, to singing duets, to incorporating video game elements, newlyweds are putting on full productions to kick off their receptions in memorable fashion.

Why it matters

The first dance is a key wedding tradition, and couples are using it as an opportunity to showcase their personalities, talents, and relationships in unique ways. This trend reflects a broader desire among couples to make their weddings more personalized and less cookie-cutter.

The details

Couples are collaborating with wedding professionals like choreographers, DJs, and bands to pull off these showstopping first dances. The performances can include elements like custom-built stages, special lighting, pyrotechnics, and even guest participation through flash mobs. The music, costumes, and choreography are carefully curated to reflect the couple's relationship, heritage, and interests.

  • In November 2025, Torera Sotinwa and Opeyemi Onibokun performed a choreographed first dance at their wedding in Lagos, Nigeria.
  • In August 2024, Kristy Lau and Vincent Cheng sang to each other during their first dance at their wedding at Hestan Vineyards in Napa, California.
  • In October 2025, Vanessa Lau and Mike Pan choreographed an elaborate performance to "Love Is an Open Door" from "Frozen" for their first dance at the Ritz Carlton Toronto.
  • In August 2025, Leilah Rosen and Josh Ehrlich composed a musical theater number and led a flash mob dance for their first dance at their wedding in White Plains, New York.

The players

Ade Tokan

A master of ceremonies at Steelacts Productions in London who has seen couples get creative with their first dances.

Torera Sotinwa

A lawyer who incorporated Nigerian heritage and personal elements into her choreographed first dance performance with her husband Opeyemi Onibokun.

Andrea Smith

A member of the wedding band The Band Method in New York City who has worked with couples on memorable first dances.

Michael Coombs

A DJ who runs his own entertainment company in Toronto and has helped couples execute elaborate first dance productions.

Irene Katzias

A wedding planner and founder of Irene + Co Events in North Haven, Connecticut who advises couples on first dance planning.

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What they’re saying

“The choreography and music selection were deeply personal, reflecting her relationship, personality and Nigerian heritage.”

— Ade Tokan, Master of Ceremonies, Steelacts Productions

“Every element — the music, the costumes, the movement — was intentionally curated to reflect our rich Yoruba heritage and to pay homage to musical legends like Fela Kuti, Asake and D'banj, whose work continues to redefine Afrobeat.”

— Torera Sotinwa

“Pulling something like this off requires an elite team working in total sync. One missed cue can derail the entire experience.”

— Michael Coombs, DJ, Toronto-based Entertainment Company

“Don't feel like you need to take on the role of director, choreographer and performer. Delegating can make the collaboration worthwhile for you and your guests.”

— Irene Katzias, Wedding Planner, Irene + Co Events

“As the bride and groom, being the center of attention was the default for the day, so we figured if all eyes were going to be on us, then we should be doing something that we both genuinely enjoy.”

— Elizabeth Bohnslav

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This trend of couples putting on elaborate first dance performances reflects a broader desire among newlyweds to make their weddings more personalized and memorable. By collaborating with wedding professionals, couples are able to showcase their unique talents, interests, and cultural heritage in creative ways that captivate their guests.