Step Sing

Blowing the roof off of Norton Auditorium every year since 1973.

What happens when groups of students invest ten months of planning, dozens of rehearsals, original choreography, music production, stage and lighting design, and UNA lion spirit? Step Sing. Hosted by the University Program Council, this annual competition roars to life as the biggest event on campus.

Planning starts inside the University Program Council in May and looks forward to Spring semester of the next year. By October, they pull in previous performance groups and new interested parties for planning meetings. Any group of 10 to 25 students can claim a spot. By November, groups lock their song choices and begin putting steps to the beat. Rehearsal weeks eat into weekends. Some groups log weeks of 20+ hours of practice.

Each group crams spirit, energy, hope, togetherness, and excellence into its explosive ten-minute slot. On the performance nights, five judges score the groups on showmanship, musical quality, creativity, storyline, and choreography. Past participants will tell you the trophy isn’t the point. They build lifelong memories and friendships before the curtain opens.

In 2026, Step Sing was held January 29–31 in Norton Auditorium following the theme “March Through Time.” Teams were challenged to be inspired by the past, present, or future to select an event or era to provide the foundation for their performances. Step Sing 2026 raised funds for Caring for the Pride and other student-focused campus initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Step Sing?

Step Sing is a fundraiser held annually during Spring semester. In 2026, Step Sing was held January 29th–31st. The Thursday night performance is traditionally only for UNA students, faculty, and employees. Friday and Saturday performances require tickets. All groups perform each night. The winners will be announced on the final night.

Where does the money raised by Step Sing go?

In the past, Step Sing funds have been raised and donated to United Way of the Shoals to benefit our beloved community. For 2026, Step Sing funds are being transitioned to benefit UNA students through Caring for the Pride and other internal student-focused campus initiatives.

Who can participate in Step Sing?

Enrolled students who create a group of 10 to 25 can participate in Step Sing. Typically, Registered Student Organizations participate; however, any group of students (e.g., a dorm floor or a random group of friends) is also allowed and highly encouraged to compete! An individual student can only compete in one group performance.

What are the rules of the competition?

The rules can change from year to year; however, they mostly remain consistent.

How long can each group perform?

Each group will have no more than 10 minutes to perform.

How are the groups judged?

The groups are judged by at least five judges on Showmanship, Musical Quality, Creativity, Storyline, and Choreography. Each group can earn a maximum score of 50 from each judge, 10 pts per category.

What music and lyrics can the groups use?

The groups can use any song, but it must not contain explicit content. The same rules apply for lyrics. Songs can only be used once per show and are awarded in the order of the show. The order of the show is randomly selected at the first Captains’ Meeting.

Can the groups use props on stage?

Groups are allowed to use props on stage, but there are several rules and regulations. Please see the Step Sing Rules and Regulations.

Will the groups be able to practice on stage?

Historically, UPC provides the groups with a 25-minute allotted time slot the week of the show for a full dress rehearsal. However, in 2026, Norton is permitting 40-minute dress rehearsals for each group. Dress rehearsals will occur in the order of the show and will happen between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27th and Wednesday, January 28th. This could change for 2027.

Will the groups be able to adjust their stage lighting?

The groups will have the option of 25 lighting cues. This does not include when your cast comes on stage for the first time or leaves at the end of the performance. The groups will be able to meet with the Assistant Technical Director of Norton and can practice their cues during their dress rehearsal time slot.