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LARGE GROUPS
Please note that the below classes may be combined or split further based on the number of entries.
This will be at the discretion of the festival.
A minimum of 11 and a maximum of 30 dancers constitutes a large group.
​
Schools may enter twice in their age group for each dance technique in large group classes
LARGE GROUPS:
CLASSICAL
CLASSICAL & STYLISED BALLET
Classical Ballet 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. Soft or pointe shoes must be worn (depending on age and technical proficiency). The use of classical repertoire is not allowed. Costumes should ensure that every aspect of classical technique is clearly visible.
Stylised Ballet is open only to Intermediate and Senior age categories.
CLASSICAL GREEK
Performed barefoot and essentially showing the use of opposition and relaxation through the movements. Technique should be based on the syllabus set by Ruby Ginner. Dances should reflect the title. Myths and nature themes are acceptable provided the movements are given their appropriate interpretation that relates to one or more of the seven different styles in this technique.
NATIONAL & GLOBAL DANCE
All traditional music, songs, and techniques 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 choice for this section is broad and encompasses both traditional folk dances and dances drawn from the rich body of cultural dance practices from around the world. 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.
CHARACTER & NARRATIVE
In this section you may portray a character, fictional or non-fictional, or you may choose to interpret an animal or an element from nature, a feeling, an emotion or something more abstract. Demi-character could be presented within this section. The technique must be consistent throughout and appropriate to the piece as a whole. The chosen dance technique must serve the purpose of storytelling, a hybrid and creative utilisation of different dance techniques will be accepted. Costumes and makeup should reflect the character choice being portrayed. Footwear, if required, should also be suitable and appropriate to the character, the style and period and should always facilitate correct technique.
Classical Greek would not be accepted here as the genre already utilises characterisation and interpretation as part of its own performance criteria. However, in a hybrid form, a character piece could draw from Classical Greek vocabulary if suited to the mood and feel of the characterisation.
Please note that Classical & Stylised Ballet, Classical Greek, Character/Narrative and National & Global dance will be danced and judged together. Dancers are able to enter more than once dance as long as the performances are from different disciplines and are contrasting (i.e. Dancers would be able to enter a classical ballet quartet along with a National/Global trio).
CLASS
AGE
TIME LIMIT
C LG1
C LG2
C LG3
Junior (Ages 10 & under)
Intermediate (Ages 11 - 14 inclusive)
Senior (Ages 15 - 21 inclusive)
4 mins
4 mins
4 mins
LARGE GROUPS:
MODERN, LYRICAL
& CONTEMPORARY
MODERN / JAZZ
An all-inclusive term applied to an ever-evolving performing art. It includes lyrical modern, jazz, stage, contemporary, hip-hop and all styles of modern theatre dance. Choreography should reflect the rhythms and dynamics of the music, clear sustained technique in turns, kicks and elevated steps and should avoid being solely based on limbering movements. Tricks can be utilised, but should have purpose to the piece, ensure that focus and consideration is given on the linking steps in between to help with flow in the transitions.
LYRICAL MODERN
Based on Modern technique, Lyrical Modern allows the dancer to interpret the music and lyrics through movement and encourages a sense of musicality and connection between the dancer and the accompaniment. The use of breath is important and strong technical application will allow for simplicity and space in the presentation. Whilst the use of floor work is permitted, it should be kept to a minimum. Theming and music should be age appropriate and the size of orchestration and emotive content should relate to the age and ability of the dancer. Acrobatic work is not permitted in lyrical.
CONTEMPORARY DANCE
At its core the work should demonstrate a clear underpinning of recognisable contemporary dance techniques (such as Graham, Cunningham, Horton, Release) which may be amalgamated. Choreography should explore themes and the use of contraction, extension, and relaxation should be explored along with the use of the spine. Breath should inform movement, with weight, swing, suspension, and release applied.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.
MODERN BALLET
A fusion of Modern and Classical Ballet genres, combining the classical technique, which may be performed with a parallel line of leg and contemporary movement. This form may be performed bare foot but usually requires the use of soft or pointe shoes. Music choices could be more varied and draw from a wider body of material than is suggested for classical ballet performances.
Please note that Modern/Jazz, Lyrical Modern, Contemporary and Modern Ballet will be danced and judged together. Dancers are able to enter more than once dance as long as the performances are from different disciplines and are contrasting.
Please note that Lyrical, Contemporary and Modern Ballet dances are only open to Intermediate and Senior classes.
Following AED guidlines, lyrical-style dances for Junior classes will be categorised as Modern/Jazz.
CLASS
AGE
TIME LIMIT
MJLC LG1
MJLC LG2
MJLC LG3
Junior (Ages 10 & under)
Intermediate (Ages 11 - 14 inclusive)
Senior (Ages 15 - 21 inclusive)
4 mins
4 mins
4 mins
LARGE GROUPS:
TAP
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. Costumes can be varied and creative, just ensure that emphasis is not drawn from the feet and a clear action should be visible. Taps should not be loosened as this will blur, and detract from, the clarity of sound. Hard soled shoes are preferable as they produce a more confident sound and are more protective of the feet.
CLASS
AGE
TIME LIMIT
T LG1
T LG2
T LG3
Junior (Ages 10 & under)
Intermediate (Ages 11 - 14 inclusive)
Senior (Ages 15 - 21 inclusive)
4 mins
4 mins
4 mins
LARGE GROUPS:
MUSICAL THEATRE
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. 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.
THERE IS NO REQUIREMENT FOR THE PERFORMANCE TO CONTAIN 50% SONG AND 50% DANCE.
For younger candidates in the Junior section, it is acceptable for the performers to choose songs that are not necessarily drawn from musical theatre.
CLASS
AGE
TIME LIMIT
LT SG1
LT SG2
LT SG3
Junior (Ages 10 & under)
Intermediate (Ages 11 - 14 inclusive)
Senior (Ages 15 - 21 inclusive)
4.5 mins
4.5 mins
4.5 mins
LARGE GROUPS:
OPEN
OPEN
The open section is for any dance routine that doesn’t fall into the specific categories outlined above. It can be a hybrid of different dance styles. Examples of dances that could be suitable may include: commercial, street and/or hip-hop, lyrical jazz that incorporates elements of acrobatic work.
The dance should not fulfil the criteria outlined for any other section/class that is offered within the Centre Stage Dance Festival Syllabus.
CLASS
AGE
TIME LIMIT
O LG1
O LG2
O LG3
Junior (Ages 10 & under)
Intermediate (Ages 11 - 14 inclusive)
Senior (Ages 15 - 21 inclusive)
4 mins
4 mins
4 mins
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