Dance: Ballet

Description:
Perform a series of rhythmic and highly technical patterned bodily movements demonstrating your mastery of formal ballet technique, artistry, and musicality.

Overview:
Demonstrate your mastery of ballet technique, artistry, and musicality by performing a solo piece of your choice in the style of classical ballet, contemporary ballet, neo-classical ballet, or story ballet.

Notes for Judges ● Each contestant will have 5 minutes to present their performance and then the judging co-hort will have 5 minutes for any follow up questions and quick deliberations before the next contestant. Each contestant will only have an allocated time frame of 10 minutes. ● You should not under any circumstances engage with the students before or after the competition until the Awards Ceremony has concluded. ● You must provide honest constructive feedback for each contestant that you are judging. ● Scoring Rubric: ○ 95-100 - Qualifies as a Gold Medalist ○ 90+Up - Qualifies as a Silver Medalist ○ 85+Up - Qualifies as a Bronze Medalist ■ Please take heed that the identifying word here is “Qualifies”. There can be multiple contestants that can qualify as gold medalist and if that’s the case the highest score will receive the gold, and silver and bronze will be allocated to the next two highest scores. ■ In the event the highest score is a 90 then there is no gold medalist and there’s only a possibility for a silver and bronze medalist as long as the remaining scores land within the 85+Up region.

Requirements:

1. Performance Time: The solo performance must not exceed five (5) minutes.

Note: Exceeding this time limit may result in points deduction or disqualification.

2. Costume: Costumes are optional but should be appropriate to the style and theme of the choreography.

3. Style: The theme and style of the performance must be clearly identified to the judges prior to the presentation.

Acceptable styles include:

a. Classical Ballet: Traditional ballet technique, emphasizing grace, precision, and elegance.

b. Contemporary Ballet: A blend of classical ballet and modern dance, often incorporating expressive movement and improvisation.

c. Neo-Classical Ballet: A modern interpretation of classical ballet, often featuring innovative choreography and contemporary music.

d. Story Ballet: A narrative ballet that tells a story through dance, often involving character development and plot.

4. Footwear: The piece must be performed in ballet slippers/flats, or pointe/demi-pointe shoes.

Note: Bare feet are only acceptable for Contemporary Ballet.

5. Contestant Introduction: State your introduction in full, per the Contestant Introduction Script, before beginning your performance.

6. Statement of Integrity: Submit a completed Statement of Integrity Form with your application.

Necessary Equipment

This equipment is provided and standard at the national competition.

Note: Contact your local ACT-SO Chairperson to see if this equipment is available at the local level.

1. 1 Sound System w/2 Speakers that is electricity based, not battery powered
2. Laptop w/charger or Phone w/Charger
a. Dongle Adapter for Macbooks
3. Aux Adaptor for playback from phones
a. USB C to 3.5 mm Aux Jack (most modern devices)
b. Lightning to 3.5 Aux Jack (older apple devices)
4. Aux cable
5. Outlet Surge Protector

Required Submissions

• Bio (PDF) → First_Last_Bio
• Contestant Photo (PDF) → First_Last_CP
• Statement of Integrity (PDF) → First_Last_SOI
• Audio File (MP3) → First_Last_Audio

When uploading your documents, you must name each file exactly as shown above in order for it to be properly uploaded and integrated into our automated system.

Example: John_Doe_WP (using your own first and last name, followed by the file label shown for your category).

Note: If files are not received in these formats, they are out of compliance and ineligible until rectified. If they are not corrected before the deadline, the contestant will no longer be able to compete at this year's iteration of the National Competition

Contestants will be judged by the following criteria:

25 Points: Technical Proficiency/Skill

1. alignment

2. strength

3. endurance

4. flexibility

5. coordination

25 Points: Clarity and Consistency in Style

• Adherence to the chosen style

• Clear and consistent execution of movements

• Appropriate use of body language and facial expressions

25 Points: Phrasing/Dynamics/Musicality

• Sensitivity to the music

• Variation in movement quality and intensity

• Clear phrasing and articulation of steps

25 Points: Clarity of Intent/Interpretation of Choreography

• Effective communication of the intended message or story

• Artistic expression and individuality

• Engagement with the audience

100 Total Points

Point Deduction -0.25 per 15 sec
For every 15 seconds the performance exceeds the allotted time limit (5 minutes), 0.25 point is deducted.

Tips for Dance Ballet Contestants:

• Choose a piece that suits your strengths and interests.

• Practice regularly and consistently.

• Pay attention to detail.

• Work on your musicality and phrasing.

• Develop your stage presence and confidence.

• Warm up thoroughly before your performance.

• Stay focused and present during your performance.

• Enjoy the experience!

By following these guidelines and tips, you can create a memorable and successful solo ballet performance.