BALLET

Classical Ballet - This should include elements of both adage and allegro.  Stylised ballet is a communication of an idea through movement, danced with/without the use of hand props, and could reflect elements such as the Hornpipe, Spanish and Tarantella for example. The use of classical repertoire is not allowed.  Music should be drawn from the classical genre and be suited to the range of vocabulary steps utilised

​

Modern Ballet - This is a fusion of both classical and modern ballet styles which may or may not be danced with a parallel line of the leg.  Choreographers such as Crystal Pite or Wayne McGregor are examples of the type of work we would expect to see in this section, neo-classical work would also be acceptable.  Soft or pointe shoes must be worn.  Music choices could be more varied and draw from a wider body of material than is suggested for classical ballet performances. Floor work may be incorporated.

​

NO POINTE WORK ALLOWED IN NOVICE CLASSES.

​

TAP

Tap encompasses many different styles – often dictated by the choice of accompaniment.  The use of the body and/or arm lines and overall performance should work in unity to form a cohesive presentation that is informed by the style of tap that has been utilised.  Tap dances should be rhythmic, show clearly defined rhythmic patterns and precision in beating and footwork.  There should be variance in the use of tonal quality which may, or may not, be influenced by the accompaniment.

 

MODERN JAZZ

An all-inclusive term applied to an ever-evolving performing art. Jazz dance is a form of dance that combines both African and European dance styles. This high-energy dance uses sharp yet fluid motions. Acrobatic/Gymnastic movements are acceptable but must be combined with a recognisable dance technique and a theatrical and artistic quality. However acrobatic ‘tricks’ should be minimal and not become the main focus of the choreography.

​

LYRICAL

Lyrical jazz is a pure interpretation of the music and should therefore show fluidity, resistance, suspension, relaxation, purpose and create physical shapes that are aesthetically pleasing.  Vocal or non-vocal music may be utilised, however if interpreting the lyrics, the performance should be consistent throughout.  The choreography should have a continuous sense of flow showing breadth, expansion, and release.  Whilst the use of floor work is permitted, it should be kept to a minimum. Acrobatic work is not permitted in lyrical.

​

CONTEMPORARY

Breath should inform movement, with weight, swing, suspension, and release applied.

Choreography should explore themes and the use of contraction, extension, and relaxation should be explored along with the use of the spine.  The performance should avoid being presentational and dancers should demonstrate they have a deep understanding of what initiates movements and why.  The space should be explored in a multi layered way including, levels, planes, and facings.

​

ACRO

Acro dance is a style of dance that combines classical dance technique with precision acrobatic elements. It is defined by its athletic character, its unique choreography, which seamlessly blends dance and acrobatics, and its use of acrobatics in a dance context 

​

MUSICAL THEATRE

Musical theatre encompasses the ‘triple threat’ abilities of performers and adjudicators will consider the following aspects:

• Vocal ability and technique.

• Acting through song and connection to the words.

• Acting through dance and/or movement.

​

The choice of the material should be both suitable in terms of age and cultural identity. Characterisation and believability are integral to the performance, and it is important that the song choice is relevant to the performer.  The lyrics are important, and clarity of diction should be thought about.  Breath control and pitching are also a key element and need suitable training.  The key of the accompaniment should be within the range of the performer and it is permissible to change this to suit the voice type.  Dance should not be included for the sake of it and should flow naturally out of the lyrics and characterisation.  Pedestrian movement and staging are considered appropriate, and each action should have a clear purpose and intention.  Any genre of dance can be utilised, the focus should be that the genre enhances the role that is being played and is in keeping with the character and era of the chosen material.  Ensure that the performer understands the context, period, and location of the song and/or musical.

​

DANCERS IN THE PRE-JUNIOR & JUNIOR SECTIONS MAY USE SONGS THAT ARE NOT DRAWN FROM MUSICAL THEATRE 

​

GLOBAL DANCE

All traditional music, songs and technique appropriate to the country of choice are acceptable. Younger competitors are expected to demonstrate traditional performances. Seniors may introduce theatrical performances that are clearly based on a national tradition.

​

The costume should be authentic with the correct length of skirt or trousers and an awareness of the material types used in the Country.  Footwear should be appropriate for the style.  Jewellery can be worn if it complements the authenticity of the costume.

​

CLASSICAL GREEK

Classical Greek is performed barefoot and essentially shows the use of opposition and relaxation through movement. Dances should reflect the title. Myths, studies from nature and modern-day themes are acceptable, together with the accompaniment of many different genres of music or the spoken word, provided the movements are given their appropriate interpretation and relate to one or more of the seven styles of this technique

​

CHARACTER

A dramatic, artistic or sometimes humorous presentation of :

​

• A story /character from any book, poem, play, film, history, cartoon, original created theme, etc.

• The mannerisms and essential features of animals, birds, insects, reptiles, virus, and topical interpretations of abstract themes.

​

Appropriate technique for the character should be used.

​

COMMERCIAL

Commercial is dance style takes from many other dance disciples (such as jazz, street, modern and hip hop) and is a combination of self-expression, energy and performance.

​