Dance Genres
Classical Ballet
To include Classical Ballet/ Stylised Ballet.
- Classical Ballet should include Adage and Allegro. Costumes should ensure that every aspect of Classical Technique is clearly visible.
- Stylised Ballet. A communication of an idea through movement, danced with Classical Technique.
National
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 more theatrical performances provided they are clearly based on correct technique of the National being danced.
Character
All Character work will be based on Classical technique. A dramatic, artistic or sometimes humorous presentation of a story/Character from any book, poem, play, film, history, cartoon, original created theme etc.
Classical Greek
Classical Greek is performed barefoot and essentially showing the use of opposition and relaxation through the movement. Dances should reflect the title.
Modern
The range of choreographic styles and techniques is diverse. Modern, Jazz, and all styles of Modern Theatre Dance are appropriate. These styles are informed by the choice of music, and from that the choreography should reflect the movement vocabulary. 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. All routines should observe safe dance practice and MUST be appropriate for the age and ability of the performer.
Tap
All styles and developments in technique, including characterisation and humour are encouraged providing the projection, beating and presentation of the routine is fully sustained and appropriate.
Lyrical
Lyrical Modern work should show flowing movements that purely express the emotion of the music. Gymnastic and acrobatic work is not allowed, and floor work should be kept to a minimum.
Music: The choice of music is most important within this genre in relation to the age of the performer. They should be able to understand the context of the lyrics or style of the instrumental in order for them to give a true interpretation of the music.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance is an expressive style of dance that abandons the rigid, centered aspect of classical forms of dance, and utilises unconventional movements from styles around the world. It incorporates certain elements of ballet, modern dance, and jazz.
Music: The range of music choices for contemporary is very broad. Classical, contemporary, folk, spoken word, world, popular music are all acceptable.
Musical Theatre – Song & Dance
The song chosen needs to be age appropriate. Generally, songs with a narrative work best, which usually come from musicals or movie musicals. Dance should come as an alternative way of expressing the theme and complement the complete performance.
Choreography
Dancers entering this section will have chosen their own music and created their own content.
Improvisation
Dance improvisation (commonly known as improv) is the process of creating movement without pre-planning any steps or choreography. and the best part is there are absolutely no rules!
Dancers should dress in leotard and tights and the choice of footwear (soft shoe or bare foot) is up to them, depending on how the dancer interprets the music and what technique they use.
Music: The music is provided by the Adjudicator. The dancers will hear it played twice and will then interpret it as a solo dance.
Vocal
Competitors are required to perform a solo from any traditional, original or published work of Musical, Theatre or Film. Song selection must be suitable for the age of the performer.
Backing music should be uploaded via the Play & Perform booking platform. Backing tracks must not include vocals. Performers will be expected to introduce their song and show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance), and dramatic content. No props or costumes are permitted.
