General Information

Dancers use own music on tape or CD (Exception: Street Dance)
No dancer shall compete against themselves. However, they may enter an age category above their own if they have two routines of the same discipline
Stage props are permissible when carried on by the dancer or can be set up by helpers while dancer is being announced. The only exception for this is for Production and Stage Helpers may be used and a set-up time will be allowed for each production.

Dance Disciplines

BALLET: This discipline should be in the Classical technique and style and may be performed in soft ballet slippers. Although choreography may be of a modern nature, it may not deviate from what is commonly known as classical ballet. Lyric, modern or modern jazz may not be performed in this discipline. Acrobatic tricks are not permitted. In the duos, and groups, lifts, drop falls, jumps resulting in catches and supported turns are encouraged, as long as they remain in the classic tradition.

DEMI-CHARACTER: Ballet number that tells a story or has a theme

POINT: Ballet number done wearing point shoes

TAP: Although the primary emphasis should be the harmonious blend of the dancer's footwork (sound), many variables exist. All forms of dance will compete against each other, such as Rhythm, Hoofing, Buck&Wing, Military etc. WITH THE EXCEPTION ON STEPDANCING/CLOGGING. Jingle taps, double taps or double claques are not permitted.

JAZZ: Jazz dancing is a multi faceted art form. The following types of Jazz Dance are examples of what is permissible in this category.
The entire routine must consist of Jazz Work. Jazz technique, turns, jumps, isolations, stretch as well as use of port de bras, legs, upper body. Timing and rhythm will be considered in marking. Suitable footwear must be worn.
Acrobatic tricks that are integral parts of the routine are permitted but will not enhance the dancers scores. Acrobatic tricks cannot dominate the routine. Lip-sync is not permitted throughout the entire routine, however, personal interpretation of feeling or emotion is permitted.
Contemporary Jazz - Primarily performed to music of today but may also include many different styles such as African, Oriental, Spanish, Cowboy etc. and performed to any type of music or speed.

SHOWDANCE: Competitors may perform all existing styles of Jazz dance techniques. These may include
Modern, Jazz, classical ballet, ballroom, Ethnic, Folk or character. They may be performed in pure form or as a combination of two or more different styles and may include acrobatics, lifts and other theatrical movements, which will enhance the dancers scores. Danceshow SHOULD SHOW EMOTION OR HAVE A THEME OR TELL A STORY THROUGH DANCE
Lip-sync is not permitted throughout the entire routine, however, personal interpretation of feeling or emotion is permitted

LYRICAL: Form of dance done to slow music. Dancer must interpret the lyrics of the music
The emphasis is on strength and control and ease of movement.

MODERN: The same rules apply as in Ballet, only substituting Classical Ballet with traditional Modern technique. However, modern dance was originally a rebellion against classical technique. Therefore, experimental or original techniques and choreography are encouraged.

ACRO: This dance discipline consist of many techniques. Namely, tumbling, balancing, contortion, aerial tricks without hands and controlled movement, which should be connected with dance moves. The emphasis is on strength and control and ease of movement.

ETHNIC: Traditional National Country dances Example: Chinese, Latin, etc.

SONG & DANCE: Dance should include 60% voice and 40% dance. No singing allowed on tape. All voice must be from dancer. Dancers must bring their own equipment if wish to use anything other then a hand held microphone.

MUSICAL THEATRE/STAGE: Musical Comedy, or acting out characters such as Elvis, Animals etc.
This category lip-sync may be used throughout entire routine.

OPEN: This is for a routine that does not fit anywhere else. Example routine that is half tap and half jazz.