What Judges Look for at Dance Competitions!
Showcases, Dance-o-Ramas and performances are all part of the Arthur Murray experience. However, the idea of being adjudicated can be a bit scary, especially when we already have so many things to think about while we dance.
So what are the judges looking for and how can we be prepared to be our best selves on the day? Here is a small description of things that judges are potentially looking for. Remember each judge is different and has their own preferences, so be mindful that these are just guidelines and not strict marking criteria. These are in no particular order:
Having Fun/ Good Times: Both audiences and judges love to see dancers enjoying themselves and doing what they love. We could do all our steps correct/perfect but if it doesn’t look like we are enjoying ourselves it could leave a negative impression. Find the joy in dancing, no matter how scared you may be. We aren’t lying when we say the most import thing is to have fun.
Timing and Musicality: Dancing on time not only looks great but it allows us to hit unique beats and pauses in the music; giving us that extra WOW factor! Before starting to dance take a moment to listen to the music, feel the beat, take a breath and then start.
Posture: You’ve probably heard your teacher talk to you about your posture on your lessons. Having nice aligned posture (being pulled up/ chest lifted/ shoulders down and back/head up) adds an air of confidence and presentation which can be eye catching and lovely to watch.
Footwork: Neat feet are the sign of a good dancer. The judges are not only looking if you have done the step correctly but, also if you were brushing your feet and collecting weight, doing heel or toe leads, rise and fall, and keeping it consistent.
Leading/Following (Communication): One major part of dancing with a partner is communication. Are the leader’s dance intentions clear, and are follower’s feeling/listing to their partners?
With all the adrenaline and excitement on the day, we need to be more aware of ourselves and our partner’s movements
Characteristics of the Dance: Each dance is unique in its own way and has its own characteristics. We want these characteristics to come alive when we dance. So make your Cha Cha a little bit flirty, your Mambo staccato and your Waltz graceful and glidey. Some judges like to see that you understand the differences between each dance.
Overall Presentation: This is the cherry on top of our dancing; that little bit of performance quality that makes our dancing extra special. Remembering to walk on and off of the dance floor in “performance mode”, bowing/curtsying to the audience after you have finished and arm stylings, add to the overall presentation of our dancing.
Whilst there is an audience and adjudicators watching us, the best thing we can do for ourselves (and our nerves) is to ignore them and dance in the moment. The old saying “Dance like no-one is watching” exists for a reason. All that we can hope for on the day is to dance to the best of our ability.