Event Name: Folk | Cultural Dance Solo
Location: Southern Cross Burwood – Auditorium
Section Number: 48
General Category Guidelines:
1 piece only to be performed.
Dance solos and ensembles may be performed with or without accompaniment. Accompaniment must be provided in the way of a backing track. No live accompaniment is permitted, unless this has been previously arranged with Eisteddfod organisers.
Performance music must contain appropriate themes and lyrics for the age and stage of the performer/s, in line with the mission, vision and values of SCS.
Music must not contain swearing or slurs.
All music and dance movements are to be congruent with the Catholic ethos of the association.
Costuming is an optional requirement but MUST adhere to appropriate modesty standards for the age. Costumes must preserve the dignity of the performer. No midriff or cut away tops. High cut costumes (cut out from the leg to the waist) are not acceptable for any individual or group.
Culturally appropriate costumes that may be considered inappropriate as per the costuming guidelines are permitted as long as a reasonable standard of modesty and individual dignity are maintained.
Work is to be original. It cannot be a copy of an established dance.
Section Specific Guidelines:
Time stipulations – performances must not exceed:
Years 3-12 (ages 7 – 18): 3 minutes
Performances will be stopped at 1 minute over time
Judging Criteria:
- Technique appropriate to the dance style
- Choreography Quality
- Performance Quality (expression, execution and confidence)
- Use of Dance Elements appropriate to style (SPACE, TIMING, DYNAMICS)
- Overall Presentation (musical accompaniment, entertainment value, spatial awareness)
- Creativity and Originality
- Originality of movement and choreography.
- Demonstrates innovative and creative use of space, music, and emotions.
- Technique and Skill
- Execution of dance techniques (e.g., leaps, turns, extensions) with precision.
- Mastery of various dance styles and genres.
- Control, balance, fluidity and strength of movements.
- Musicality
- Alignment with the music’s rhythm, tempo, and dynamics. Interpretation of the music through movement.
- Ability to capture the essence of the music and convey it to the audience.
- Expressiveness and Emotion
- Ability to convey a story, message, or emotion through dance.
- Connection with the audience through facial expressions and body language.
- Depth of emotional engagement and authenticity.
- Stage Presence
- Confidence and charisma on stage.
- Effective use of the stage space.
- Engagement with the audience and judges.
- Transitions and Flow
- Smooth and seamless transitions between movements and sequences.
- Consistency in maintaining the flow of the dance.
- Avoidance of awkward pauses or disruptions.
- Costume and Presentation
- Appropriate costume choice that complements the dance.
- Overall presentation, including grooming and stage presence.
- Attention to detail in costume and appearance.
- Improvisational Skills
- Ability to adapt and respond to changes in the music or environment.
- Creativity in incorporating unexpected elements into the dance.
- Attention to creative transitions between movements, styles or emotional states.
Immediate Point Deductions:
- 2 point deduction per 10 seconds over time.
- 2 point deduction for inappropriate costume (midriff, cut away, high cut).
- 100% deduction if backing track contains slurs or swearing.
