// DEFINITIONS

Adagio Figure: A move that contains either a drop, lift, aerial, dip or oversway.

Adagio Group: At least one (1), but not more than three (3) adagio figures, with no swing (Hand Dance) moves between them. Beginning and ending an Adagio figure or group, begins when the dancer’s weight is supported by the partner and ends when the weight is no longer supported by the partner.

Aerial: A move where one partner is lifted by the assisting partner so that the head and torso are above the waist of the supporting partner and the lifted partner is released by the supporting partner leaving them momentarily in “mid-air”.

Breakaway: A set of symmetric or complementary movements or footwork executed by a couple who intentionally break contact (except for spins and turns), which is not a clearly lead-able derivative of a recognizable swing pattern.

Costumes: Attire which, in the opinion of the judges, is specifically designed or selected for couples competition and would not generally be worn for social dancing.

Matching Outfits: are clothing that is color coordinated and would be likely be worn in social dance, but would not be considered a costume.

Dip: A move where a dancer’s weight is supported by the partner and the head is below the partner’s waist.

Drop: A move in which either partner’s head and torso goes below knee level of the other partner. Low leans are not considered drops.

Entrance: Pre-choreographed segment of a performance, where competitors formally enter the floor and prepare to dance. Acknowledging your partner, the judges, or the audience is not considered an entrance.

Exit: Pre-choreographed segment of a performance, where competitors leave the floor. Acknowledging your partner, the judges, or the audience is not considered an exit.

Lean: A move where the dancer’s feet are in contact with the floor. The dancer’s weight is supported by the partner with the top of his/her head not lower than the top of the support partners shoulders (relative to being the same height). The support partner’s knees are not extending in front of the support partner’s toes.

Lift: A move where the dancer is not in contact with the floor. The partner supports the dancer’s weight. Any more lasting longer than a full beat of music where the feet of one partner are clearly off the floor and the other partner supports the lifted partner’s weight.

Oversway: A move where the dancer’s weight is supported by the partner and the head is below the top of the partner’s shoulder.

Props: Throw away skirts, shirts, scarves, etc., are considered props in this context and are not allowed. Anything other than what would be considered acceptable clothing.

Pull: A move where the dancer is pulling the partner’s weight across the floor.

Push: A move where the dancer is pushing the partner’s weight across the floor.

Routine: Any segment, which, in the opinion of the judges, consists of prearranged choreography including symmetric or complementary movements or footwork.

COMPETITOR RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Plan ahead. Know the event schedule in advance and arrive in time to meet our contest registration deadlines. Bring appropriate competition attire. Be sure to check when you arrive for any last-minute changes to our schedule.
2. Know the Rules. Read the competition rules carefully prior to the contest. You are responsible for following our rules whether you have read them or not. If you have questions, you should contact our Competition Coordinator ahead of time.
3. Turn in your music to the DJ at least 1 hour prior to your division. Music for routines must be a single track on a CD and clearly labeled. If you need your music’s tempo altered, started in the middle of the track or an early fade out, please have someone edit your music in advance.
4. Be prepared to compete. Be in the ballroom at least 15 minutes prior to the start of your competition. Remember to bring your bib number (we will charge you a replacement fee of $10 if you lose it.) If you miss the competition or withdraw after the registration deadline, you forfeit your entry fee.
5. Be a good sport. You must demonstrate good sporting conduct both on and off the competition floor. This includes treating partners, other competitors, competition officials, spectators, and the event itself with respect. Demonstrating a poor attitude by heaving in ways that the judges deem inappropriate will result in your disqualification.
6. Use only appropriate channels to communicate your concerns. If you have questions or concerns about our competitions, use appropriate channels to share your concerns such as a private discussion with our competition coordinator, chief judge, or contestant representative. You are not allowed to pressure, challenge, or argue with the judges. If you harass or verbally abuse a judge or other competition official, we will disqualify you and may also ban you from competing at this event in the future.

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