Monday, February 20, 2017

5 IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT TITLE AT DANCE COMPETITIONS

Whether or not to enter the title competition, or which dance to choose for the title competition, can be a tough decision. Title criteria can be slightly different from the adjudicated and overall competition. Some competitions choose to score them on the same variables, but others may have an entirely different score sheet. One thing remains a constant for most judges to which I have spoken: title is more about overall presentation, and pageantry. Here are just five things to consider when thinking of entering your performance in the title competition.
  1. Is the piece you are considering well-rehearsed and performed with exuberance? A title contestant should be rehearsed to perfection, leaving no details unpolished. A tremendous amount of confidence and energy is needed for success in this category. A dancer cannot be confident if the choreography hasn’t been rehearsed well.
  2. Does the costume compliment the dancer and the piece? For title, costuming is very important. A costume adds to the overall appearance of the piece. The costume needs to fit the subject matter, music, and style, as well as fit the dancer like a glove. The costume and all accessories must be secured. A costume malfunction can tarnish the overall presentation, therefore, effecting the score. The same goes for props and the usage of the props.
  3. Is the dancer able to perform all the technical elements in the piece with proficiency? With title, it isn’t so much about how difficult the skills are, but rather how well each element is executed. The piece must be clean as a whistle. There is no room for error! Each bobble effects the overall aesthetics and presentation for which a dancer is overall scored.
  4. Is the piece entertaining? Most of the time, thought provoking dances may not be right for this category. The piece needs to be easy on the eye. The dancer must be believable in the performance, having high levels of showmanship and emotion.
  5. Does the choreography make full use of the stage? A dancer needs to command the entire stage keeping each transition and traveling step smooth.
Think of the title as the total package. The title winner may not be the most technically advanced  dancer performing the hardest elements.  Rather success is a combination of overall performance where costuming, outstanding showmanship and stage presence is just as important as the execution. Think of the Martha Graham quote, “Great dancers are not great because of their technique. They are great because of their passion.”
Dance hard. Dance smart.
To read more from Meredith, download the Dancer's Toolbox app. You can also follow her on social media! Facebook: The Competitive Edge by Meredith, Instagram: competitiveedgebymeredith, Twitter: @the_comp_edge
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