Open Balboa Strictly

Description

This is a partnered Balboa and Bal-swing competition open to dancers of all levels. Competitors do not need a full weekend pass to participate.

$20 per couple

Prelims Format

Contestants will dance in “all skate” format to 3-4 songs randomly chosen by the contest DJ (Adam Speen) of 1 minute 30 second length. Couples will be judged as a unit and will be chosen for finals based on call back format.

A competitor’s meeting will occur at 8:00pm on Saturday August 20 at Arthur Murray Chicago (116 W Illinois). Prelims will occur immediately after the Jack-and-Jill competition (which will be right after the competitors meeting).

Finals Format

Contestants will dance one “all skate” warm up, one 1 minute 30 second spotlight, and one “all skate” final. The songs will be chosen by the competition DJ. 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  during the Saturday night dance. Finals will occur during the second band break (11:15-11:45pm). Finalists must check in with the Competition Coordinator (Jennifer Reed) at 11:15pm.

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. 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 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 couples receive a hand-crafted art glass trophy for each individual. First place couples also receive a cash prize of $300. Awards will be announced at 12:30pm at the Saturday evening dance.