Competitions
Ballroom dance competitions, also known as DanceSport, are one of the best-kept secrets in the world! Pure energy, excitement and talent rushes at you when you participate as either a spectator or a competitor in one of these events.
What are the events in a Competition?
Most competitions offer events in the following styles of dance:
International Style Standard
Waltz
Tango
Viennese Waltz
Foxtrot
Quickstep
Latin American
Cha Cha
Samba
Rumba
Paso Doble
Jive
American Style Smooth
Waltz
Tango
Foxtrot
Viennese Waltz
American Rhythm
Cha Cha
Rumba
East Coast Swing
Bolero
Mambo
Miscellaneous
Theater Arts
Cabaret
Night Club
West Coast Swing
Salsa
Hustle
Night Club Two Step
How are the events judged?
During the event, from five up to 11 or more judges will rank the dance couples based on their skills, presentation, and showmanship. Scores from all the judges are combined to obtain the final standings. Adjudication is both an objective and subjective process and that is why several judges are used to ensure fairness.
Depending on the number of entries, competitors may be required to compete in a series of elimination rounds (early rounds, quarter and semi-final) until six couples are recalled for the final round by the judges. During the final round, the placements, 1st through 6th, are determined.
A dance competition allows dancers to show and compare their skills with other dancers at a similar level. A competition consists of many events, each of which is targeted at a particular style of dance and skill level. Each competitor is required to perform one or more dances from a given division. As competitors move up a skill level, they are required to perform additional dances in the respective category. Not all skill levels or divisions are offered at all competitions.
