History of WCOPA

The World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) was founded in 1996 by Griff O’Neil, a former executive of the Miss Universe Pageant, with the goal of creating a global stage for performers across various disciplines. Often referred to as the “Olympics of the Performing Arts,” WCOPA brings together talented individuals and groups from over 60 countries, fostering a sense of cultural exchange and unity through the universal language of performance. Competitors participate in diverse categories, including singing, dancing, modeling, acting, instrumental music, and variety arts, vying for prestigious titles and scholarships.

Hosted annually in California, WCOPA has grown into one of the most esteemed platforms for aspiring and professional performers alike. Its rigorous competition process is judged by industry experts, including agents, producers, and scouts, providing participants with the opportunity to showcase their talents to influential figures in entertainment. Beyond the competition, WCOPA emphasizes personal and professional growth through workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. For nearly three decades, it has been a launchpad for numerous careers, offering global exposure and celebrating the artistry and determination of performers worldwide.

The World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) is a unique international competition that stands apart from any other global event. While it shares some similarities with the Olympics—such as representing countries in delegations, having Opening Ceremonies, a Parade of Nations, and awarding Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals—WCOPA goes beyond what the Olympics offers.

One major difference is that WCOPA includes specialized boot camps to train participants, as well as “go-sees,” where contestants meet Hollywood industry professionals who can help advance their careers. This level of career support is not something you’ll find at the Olympics.

WCOPA is also structured as three competitions, or rounds, in one. Because it’s centred in Hollywood and focused on the entertainment industry, it features six different performing arts categories: singing, dancing, acting, modelling, instrument playing, and variety arts. Contestants vie not only for medals but also for showbiz-related titles like Division Champions and World Champions in each category and the coveted Grand Champion Performer of the World. Literally thousands of acts are involved here!

Round 1—the “medalling round”—awards medals and plaques for top performances in each category, with Hollywood industry judges deciding the winners. The highest scorers move on to the next round.

Round 2—the “semifinals”—introduces a new panel of judges to ensure unbiased scoring. These judges look for “entertainment value” and “marketability.” Those with the best scores advance to the final round.

Round 3—the “finals”—features rigorous rehearsals and another new set of judges. In this decisive round, the top performers in each category are named World Champions, and the Grand Champion Performer of the World is chosen from among them—the best of the best across all categories.

The following day, all medals and awards from the medalling round are formally presented in a final ceremony.

Unlike the Olympics, which crowns champions in individual sports like running or swimming, WCOPA aims to find the ultimate performer across all performing arts categories. The title of Grand Champion Performer of the World is a singular distinction, symbolizing the highest achievement in this global talent competition.

We are now accepting applications for admission into this live, top-rated worldwide talent competition for 2025. Delegates should be performing artists who presently reside in the U.S. and aspire to compete internationally.

See you in Long Beach, California, U.S.A., from July 16 – 25, 2025!