Ensemble Dance – [Section 37] Infants Open Dance Style Ensemble: Infants

Event Name: Infants Open Dance Style Ensemble
Location: Mount St Joseph – ALH
Section Number: 37

General Category Guidelines:

1 piece only to be performed per ensemble.

Dance 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.

Work is to be original. It cannot be a copy of an established dance.

Section Specific Guidelines:

Performer Limit:
5-30 Dancers

Time stipulations – performances must not exceed:
Years K-2: 2 minutes
Performances will be stopped at 1 minute over time

Entrants must be in Kindergarten to Year 2.

Teachers/tutors/non-students are not permitted to perform with dance ensembles on stage, but a single teacher is permitted to stand in the wings to guide performers.

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).
• Synchronisation and Timing
  • The precise and consistent synchronisation of all squad members.
  • Timing of movements, jumps, stunts, and transitions, ensuring perfect alignment.
• Stunts, Pyramids Tumbling and Jumps
  • The execution and difficulty of stunts, including pyramid formations.
  • The stability and control displayed during stunts, lifts, and tosses.
  • The variety and creativity of stunt.
  • Sequences within the routine.
  • The technical proficiency and execution of tumbling passes.
  • The height, form, and synchronisation of jumps, including toe touches, herkies, and pikes.
• Choreography and Creativity
  • The originality and creativity in the routine’s choreography.
  • The use of formations, levels, and transitions to create visually appealing moments.
  • Innovative and memorable choreographic choices, including dance elements.
• Energy, Enthusiasm and Showmanship
  • The squad’s energy level and enthusiasm throughout the routine.
  • The ability to engage the audience and convey excitement.
  • Presentation skills, including facial expressions and crowd interaction.
  • Confidence and charisma displayed by each squad member.
  • The squad’s ability to engage and excite the audience, including cheers and chants.
  • The ability to generate enthusiasm and support from spectators.

Immediate Point Deductions:

• 2 point deduction per 10 seconds over time.
• 2 point deduction for too many performers.
• 2 point deduction for inappropriate costumes (midriff, cut away, high cut).
• 2 point deduction for additional Tap sounds in Tap backing tracks
• 100 point deduction if backing track contains slurs or swearing.