The format is “mix and match” or “draw” so participants do not sign up with a partner. It is open to beginner and intermediate dancer who have never competed in balboa and bal-swing. It is $10 to enter and participants do not need a full weekend pass. Competitors may not compete in the intermediate or advanced shuffle unless it is in a different role. Newcomer shuffle competitors must never have made a balboa finals (mix and match or strictly) in the role they are competing. However, if they participated in a contest that did not include a prelims (or went straight to finals) and did not place in the contest, they may participate in the newcomer shuffle.
Prelims Format
Contestants will be randomly paired with 3-4 partners and will dance in “all-skate” format to 1 minute 30 second songs chosen by the competition DJ. Leads and followers will be judged separately.
Participants must attend a competitor meeting at 4:15pm on Saturday, September 27 in Room 311 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 be randomly paired with an “advanced” dancer and will dance in “all-skate” format to 3-4 songs chosen by the competition DJ. Leads and followers will be judged separately.
Finals will occur at 9:00pm on Saturday, September 27. Finalists must be present in the Erin Room (ballroom) at 8:45pm 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 follow or lead 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 will receive medals.