This competition is open to dancers of all levels and is $15 per person. The format is “mix and match” or “draw” so participants do not sign up with a partner. Competitors do not need a full weekend pass to participate.
Prelims Format
Contestants will be randomly paired with 3 partners and will dance in “all-skate” format to 1 minute 30 second songs chosen by the competition DJ. In the first song, each contestant will be assigned to lead or follow for that song. In the second song, the contestant will dance the opposite role. In the third song, contestants may lead, follow, or switch with their partner.
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 in the Erin Room of the Irish American Heritage Center at 7:45pm.
Finals Format
Contestants will be randomly paired with a partner and will be judged as a couple for finals. Partners will dance FOUR songs during the finals. The first song will be a 1 minute “all skate” warm up. During the first song, each dancer in the couple can choose to lead, follow or switch. Next, each couple will dance to TWO 1 minute 30 second DUAL spotlights. Each person in the couple will be assigned to do one of the songs as a follow and one of the songs as a lead. Finally, all couples will do a final 1 minute 30 second “all skate” where each dancer in the couple can choose to lead, follow or switch. Couples will be judged as a unit and will be chosen for first, second, and third prizes based on relative placement scoring.
Finals will occur at 10:30pm on Friday, September 26. Finalists must be present in the Erin Room (ballroom) at 10:15pm 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: As this is a social dance competition, judges will be looking for your skill in listening to and reacting to a variety of partners. Competitors are expected to demonstrate teamwork with each partnership.
- Musicality: Judges will assess both your general timing (ability to stay on rhythm) as well as your macro and micro musicality skills.
- Technique: Contestants are assessed on their ability to cleanly execute Balboa and Bal-swing movements 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 in the format of Balboa and Bal-swing.
Prizes
First, second, and third place winners receive medals and a cash prize.
- First Prize: $100 each
- Second Prize: $75 each
Third Prize: $50 each