Children & Adult DanceSport

DanceSport, as defined by Wikipedia, refers to "competitive ballroom dancing" and is distinct from social or exhibition dancing. This form of dance is regulated and sanctioned by various dancesport organizations at both national and international levels, such as the World Dance Council. The physical demands of dancesport are comparable to other athletic activities like basketball or cross-country running, as it requires a high level of cardiovascular fitness to endure the physiological strain involved.

There is a wide range of dance competitions, including the renowned Blackpool Dance Festival, which is open to all participants, as well as competitions exclusively held for university students.

International dance competitions adhere to the extensive and detailed rules set by the World Dance Council (WDC). The music used in these competitions remains confidential until the event. The music always follows a strict tempo and, in couples competitions, the duration ranges from 90 seconds to two minutes.

While some beginner-level competitions restrict participants to "basic" dance steps, international competitions allow for more creative choreography within the boundaries of the traditional style for each dance. The Viennese waltz is an exception, as it has defined choreography consisting of seven specific figures. Lifts are generally not permitted, except in Show Dance categories. Each dance has a defined tempo, and in the finals, couples are judged using the skating system, taking into account timing, footwork, rise and fall, alignment, direction, and floor craft. All competitors must adhere to the rules set by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

We offer competitive Ballroom/DanceSport programs designed for individuals of various ages and skill levels:

Pre-Ballroom (3-5 years old) - Through exercises, games, and simple dances, children learn spatial awareness, coordination, and basic dance techniques. They also have the opportunity to participate in studio showcases and open classes to gain stage experience. This class meets once a week, and additional private instruction is optional.
Elementary DanceSport (4-8 and 7-9 years old) and Youth Syllabus (7-15 years old) - This are the first competitive levels. Dancers learn basic patterns in Waltz and Cha Cha Cha and perform solo or in couples at their first competitions. Progression to the next level depends on the individual's ability to learn steps and patterns, as well as their involvement in regular competitive experiences. This class meets twice a week and includes both dance and dance conditioning training. Additionally, one private lesson per week is required in addition to the group classes.
Advanced Youth Competitors (ages 7 through under 21) - After successfully completing the Newcomer level program, dancers progress through Syllabus levels (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) and start studying Open dance material. The number of dances increases to 10, and regular competitive experience is essential. Successfully completing the syllabus program by the age of 12 is crucial for reaching the Open competitive level and competing at the National Championship level in Juniors. Otherwise, dancers remain in the Syllabus level until they reach the required dance level and compete at the School league competitions. This class meets twice a week for technical studies, and additional conditioning classes are required. Furthermore, 2-6 private lessons per week are necessary to accompany the class program.
Open Seminar (Junior to Seniors) - This class is suitable for experienced competitors aged 12 and up. It meets once a week for Ballroom and once a week for Latin programs. Private instruction is added based on the dancer's personal needs. Including competitive rounds classes and self-practice time is highly recommended for this class.

What is a Syllabus in DanceSport?

In DanceSport, a syllabus refers to a book that contains diagrams of steps, timings, and recommended patterns for all 19 dances (10 for the International program and 9 for American style). Each dance typically has about 30 steps. These steps are divided into three groups based on the level of advancement: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. When dancers compete in syllabus groups, they are only allowed to perform steps from the corresponding level. For example, in the Newcomer through Bronze groups, only Bronze movements are allowed. In the Silver group, both Bronze and Silver movements are allowed, and in the Gold group, dancers can perform steps from all levels.

What is the difference between the “CHAMPIONSHIP” and “SCHOOL” leagues for school-aged dancers?

The difference lies in the level of competition and recognition. Official competitions that grant national and world titles are organized at the National Council level. To be considered a champion, one must win a championship level event. Winning a School Syllabus competition, even if it is held concurrently with the National championships, does not grant the title of champion. However, achieving such a feat out of a pool of 200 couples is still a remarkable accomplishment. For dancers aiming for a stable career in dance at the championship level, it is crucial to start dancing at an early age and have significant national or international results, or at least experience, by the age of 11.5. Therefore, it should be a goal for preteen competitors to reach the championship level by the age of 12. If a dancer started dancing later in life but desires to compete at the championship level, it is still possible but can be compared to a child who started school at the age of 12 instead of 6. They would have to cover a lot more material in a shorter time, making it a bit more challenging but definitely achievable. Ultimately, the choice between participating in the championship or school league is up to the dancer and their family. It depends on how much time and effort they are willing and able to invest.

School league juniors (12-15)

School league youth (16-18)

Championship pre-teen (10-11)

Championship junior 2 (14-15)

Championship junior 1 (12-13)

Championship youth (16-18)

CHILDREN & ADULT DANCESPORT

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