Timing
Dancers are required to show recognisable timing for the majority of the performance. The correct and consistent use and understanding of the timing and rhythm relevant to the Latin dance (the sharpness of ‘highlights’ and the execution of appropriate syncopations) must be displayed. Dancers should be consistent with the timing of the chosen dance style. Competitors will be deducted marks for interchanging 1 and 5 if dancing ‘On 1’, or interchanging 2 and 6 if dancing ‘On 2’. If dancers temporarily break their timing to accent musicality or maintain the flow of a movement they will not be penalized, as long as this action is purposeful and there is an intentional effort to return to the original timing. For team categories, the synchronisation of the team where the choreography should/is intended to be synchronised (e.g. during combinations, poses and shines, and in dancers’ lines, hands, feet and body movement) will be scrutinised in the scoring of the timing.
Musicality
Dancers will demonstrate their ability to creatively work with the timing of their individual music. This can be done in a variety of ways, including patterns, footwork, “hits”, tricks, etc.
Technique
Technique is reflected through balance, placement and line. This refers also to general technique for partner dance, where the movement is “grounded”, and there is clarity of proper weight changes from foot to foot. Technique and/or body styling should be specific to the chosen dance style. Movement should appear to be both clear and effortless.
Difficulty
Reflected by difficulty of patterns, turns, intricacy of shine movements, and level of tricks, dips, drops and flares. Examples: The amount of turns done on both double and single foot. How intricate were the shines? In the Showcase category, what was the difficulty of the lift-work? Was it properly executed? How about jumps, kicks, extensions? Any movements requiring exceptional balance, flexibility or strength? In order to get credit for any of these things, the movement must be successfully executed.
Partnering/Connection
This is reflected in the lead/follow aspect of the dance. Are partners truly connected, or are they merely executing choreography while holding hands? Synchronicity during side by sides or shines will also help determine the score in this category.
Synchronicity
Refers to the unison of a team during side by side movement, line placement, footwork and styling. Teams will also be judged on their utilisation of formations. Judges will consider the artistic choice, clarity and variety of formations, and the transitions utilised to change between them.
Choreography
Choreography is judged on elements as use of floor space, interpretation of music, interesting pattern and shine combinations, formation changes ( where applicable) and use of height levels ( lower, mid and upper).
Overall Presentation
The overall presentation of the Individual/Couple/Team. Judges will consider the aesthetic qualities and professionalism exhibited in the costuming and appearance, the entrance, exit and sportsmanship. Costumes should complement the style, movement, theme and dancers to enhance the performance. Note there may a 2 point deduction for costume malfunctions. Please note the results and decisions of the judges will be final, binding and conclusive on all matters!