This is a partnered Pure Balboa competition open to dancers of all levels and is $30 per couple. Competitors do not need a full weekend pass to participate. Read more about pure balboa here.
Prelims Format
Contestants will dance in “all skate” format to 3-4 songs randomly chosen by the contest DJ of 1 minute 30 second length. Couples will be judged as a unit and will be chosen for finals based on callback format.
Participants must attend a competitor meeting at 7:00pm on Friday, September 27 in the Erin Room (ballroom) of the Irish American Heritage Center or they may be scratched from the competition. Prelims will occur immediately after the meeting in the Erin Room of the Irish American Heritage Center.
Finals Format
Contestants will dance one “all skate” warm up, one 1 minute 30 second DUAL spotlight, and one “all skate” final. Couples will be judged as a unit and will be chosen for first, second, and third prizes based on relative placement scoring.
Finalists will be announced and posted during the Friday night dance. Finals will occur Friday in the main ballroom at 11:00pm. Finalists must be present in the Erin Room (ballroom) at 10:30pm and attend a brief competitors’ meeting near the DJ booth or risk being scratched from the competition..
Judging Criteria
Contestants will be judged on:
- Connection: Couples are assessed on their ability to work as a team including how well they can listen and react to their partner using pure balboa connection. Although this is a social dance competition, preparation as a team is valued.
- Musicality: Judges will assess couples general timing (ability to stay on rhythm) as well as their ability to apply subtle musical footwork and texture.
- Technique: Contestants are assessed on their ability to cleanly execute Pure Balboa movement along with the technique and skills that are specifically required for lead and follow roles.
- Creativity: Competitors are encouraged to add personality to the dance by adding their own innovative movement choices, structure, and footwork. However, the dance should still remain true to the subtle nature of pure balboa.
Prizes
First, second, and third place couples will receive medals and a cash prize.
- 1st place – $300
- 2nd place – $200
- 3rd place – $100