Dancehall in Azul Fest It's a vibrant, energetic space that celebrates the cultural roots and dynamism of this Jamaican-origin dance style. This genre combines explosive movements, attitude, and rhythmic connection, highlighting the authenticity and personal interpretation of each dancer.

Each Dancehall choreography must reflect the essence of the genre: powerful, fluid, and energetic movements that align perfectly with the music's signature rhythms. Technical precision, musicality, creative transitions, and the performers' ability to convey confidence, attitude, and an authentic connection with the audience are valued.

The goal of Dancehall at Azul Fest is to offer a space where technique, expression, and creativity come together to highlight the cultural and artistic power of this style. This genre celebrates freedom, identity, and the power of movement, allowing performers to showcase their unique style while honoring Dancehall's roots.

It is determined by Calendar Age, that is, it will depend on the year of birth of the participants and is calculated as follows:

There will be a tolerance of 10 seconds.

In the event of not complying with the regulatory time

may lead to the disqualification of the group.

Please cooperate, keep your time well.

In all cases the timing of the routine will begin

with the 1st choreographic movement or musical note and will end in the same way.

Dancehall is an urban dance style originating in Jamaica characterized by a combination of fluid movements, rhythmic energy, and a strong connection to musicality and culture. In this discipline, proper technical execution is key to conveying the essence and authenticity of the style.

1.1 Execution of movements (10 points)

Evaluates the precision, control and technical quality in the execution of Dancehall steps.

Each movement is expected to be well-defined and executed with intention, avoiding sloppy or off-rhythm executions.

The technique should be based on the correct activation of the core and hips, ensuring powerful and fluid movements.

The correct execution of basic Dancehall movements, such as bogle, pon di river, willie bounce, bruk up, skanking, among others, will be valued, respecting its roots and characteristic energy.

Dancehall has a strong connection to groove and musicality; each step must maintain the rhythmic cadence and the appropriate attitude.

Uncontrolled executions, mechanical movements or movements without clear intention will be penalized.

For soloists: Clarity in the execution of steps, fluidity of movements, and authenticity in the interpretation of the style will be evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Uniformity in the execution of steps will be analyzed, ensuring that the entire team projects technical coherence and synchronized energy.

1.2 Transitions (10 points)

Evaluate the fluidity and naturalness in the connection between movements and the continuity of the groove in the choreography.

In Dancehall, transitions should be smooth and natural, maintaining the connection to the musicality without interruptions.

Step changes are expected to be organic and well-executed, avoiding abrupt breaks or disconnections from the rhythm.

The performer's ability to change dynamics and play with levels without losing the essence of the style will be valued.

Mechanical transitions, lack of control in changes of direction, or interruptions in the fluidity of movement will be penalized.

For soloists: We will analyze how each transition complements the choreographic structure without affecting the continuity of the groove.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Synchronization in transitions and group cohesion in stage movement will be assessed.

1.3 Body control (10 points)

Evaluates the stability, alignment and control of the body in the execution of movements.

In Dancehall, the use of the core and the mobility of the hips and chest are essential to execute the steps authentically.

The performance is expected to maintain a balance between relaxation and control, avoiding stiffness or lack of energy.

The performers' ability to maintain groove and cadence throughout the choreography will be assessed.

Performances that involve a lack of body control, loss of alignment, or movements that compromise the naturalness of Dancehall will be penalized.

For soloists: The ability to maintain stability and control without losing the ease and fluidity of the style will be measured.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The uniformity of body control and the group's ability to project a synchronized and natural performance will be analyzed.

Dancehall choreography must maintain coherence, energy, and creativity, respecting the essence of the style and reflecting its dynamic and expressive nature. The integration of traditional steps and creativity in the composition, as well as fluidity and use of space, will be evaluated.

2.1 Creativity and Originality (10 points)

It assesses the choreographer's ability to innovate within Dancehall, ensuring that the composition has identity and a strong visual impact.

Choreography is expected to maintain a clear structure, avoiding disordered or purposeless sequences.

The incorporation of traditional Dancehall steps combined with creative elements will be valued, always respecting the essence of the style.

The choreography must reflect the attitude and culture of Dancehall, avoiding external influences that distort its identity.

The use of dynamic changes, levels, and innovative transitions to enrich the proposal will be appreciated.

In group choreographies, awards will be given for the use of strategic formations, changes of direction, and visual effects that enhance the performance.

Choreographies that are repetitive, lack structure, or fail to establish a clear connection between movements will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to execute choreography with originality while maintaining coherence in their interpretation will be evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The way in which choreographic composition enhances group synchronization and cohesion will be analyzed.

2.2 Technical Complexity (10 points)

Analyze the difficulty level of the choreography in relation to the correct execution of the steps and their integration with the music.

The choreography is expected to include a combination of movements of varying difficulty levels, while maintaining fluidity and connection to the rhythm.

In group choreographies, the complexity also lies in group coordination, formation changes, and synchronization of steps.

Correct execution of advanced steps such as jumps, whines, bruk ups, and skanking, while maintaining control and groove, will be assessed.

The choreography should reflect the natural evolution of Dancehall's energy, avoiding forced movements or movements that do not fit with the dynamics of the style.

Choreographies with low difficulty, monotonous sequences, or a lack of exploration of the characteristic body language of Dancehall will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to execute dynamic combinations with technique, maintaining control and expressiveness will be evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The complexity of the group structure will be analyzed, ensuring that technical difficulty is well integrated into the collective execution.

2.3 Use of Space (10 points)

Evaluates the distribution and use of stage space within the choreography, ensuring a balanced and attractive staging.

Stage occupation is expected to be dynamic and strategic, allowing each dancer to utilize the space effectively.

In group choreography, movements and formation changes must be well organized, avoiding dead zones or unintentional transitions.

The combination of ground movements, displacements, and use of levels will be analyzed, ensuring that the visual composition is varied and dynamic.

Choreographies that do not make the most of the stage space, such as disorganized movement or poor layout that affects visual harmony, will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer will be assessed on how effectively he or she explores space, ensuring an expressive and well-projected performance.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The interaction between the dancers and the way in which the spatial distribution reinforces the choreographic proposal will be analyzed.

Musicality in Dancehall is an essential aspect that determines the quality of the performance. This dance style is completely linked to its music, so every movement must reflect the energy, accents, and cadence of the Dancehall rhythm. The performers will be evaluated on their ability to interpret the music accurately, respecting the groove, dynamic changes, and connection to the beats.

3.1 Musical Performance (10 points)

Evaluate the relationship between movements and musical structure, ensuring that each performance reflects the energy and groove of Dancehall.

Musicality is expected to be precise and authentic, maintaining a natural style and connection to the beat.

The interpretation must be aligned with the structure of the music, respecting accents, rhythmic variations, and strategic silences.

The dancers' ability to play with changes in tempo, dynamics, and movement textures will be assessed, using the different rhythmic elements of the music to enrich the choreography.

In group choreographies, collective synchronization with the music will be evaluated, ensuring that all performers maintain the same rhythmic alignment.

Off-beat performances, movements that are inconsistent with the music, or movements that do not reflect the sound structure of Dancehall will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to interpret music with rhythmic precision and maintain a consistent groove will be analyzed.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Group cohesion in musical performance will be assessed, ensuring that the musicianship is consistent and well-executed across the entire team.

Key Elements of Musicality in Dancehall

Rhythmic precision: Each movement must be aligned with the accents and changes of the music.

Use of pauses and energy contrasts: The dancers' ability to play with strategic silences and changes in intensity will be assessed.

Connection with the groove: Performers must project the essence of Dancehall, maintaining a natural and relaxed flow.

Group Sync: All performers must reflect the rhythm changes in the music evenly.

This block assesses the quality of execution, precision, synchronization, and group cohesion within the choreography. In Dancehall, each movement must project authenticity, fluidity, and control, ensuring that the performance reflects the essence of the style both individually and collectively.

4.1 Individual Performance (Soloists) (15 points)

Evaluates the dancer's technical precision, body control, and stage presence throughout their performance.

Each performer is expected to maintain precise and intentional execution, ensuring clarity at every step.

The performance must reflect confidence, relaxation, and an authentic attitude, fundamental characteristics of Dancehall.

The correct application of the groove and the fluidity in the execution of movements will be evaluated, avoiding stiffness or lack of control.

The performance should maintain a uniform intensity, without drops in energy or disconnection from the music.

Imprecise executions, lack of control in movements, or interpretations that do not reflect the naturalness of the style will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to perform with ease and precision will be evaluated, ensuring a performance faithful to Dancehall.

4.2 Synchronization and Cohesion (Duos, Trios, Teams, Groups and Mega Groups) (10 points)

Evaluates group coordination and uniformity in the execution of movements, ensuring that the whole group looks cohesive and visually balanced.

The group is expected to maintain precise synchronization in Dancehall movements, formations, and step combinations.

In Dancehall, group cohesion is key to projecting contagious energy and a strong visual impact.

It will be appreciated that all members execute the movements with the same intention, projection, and level of groove, avoiding noticeable differences in the quality of execution.

The uniformity of space distribution, the use of rhythmic accents, and the intensity of the group performance will be analyzed.

Mismatches in timing, energy gaps between members, or individual performances that disrupt group cohesion will be penalized.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Accuracy of timing and the ability to maintain a consistent and visually striking performance will be assessed.

4.3 Uniformity (Only for Duos, Trios, Teams, Groups and Mega Groups) (5 points)

Evaluates the homogeneity in the execution of movements, ensuring that all performers maintain the same aesthetic and technical level.

Consistency in posture, range of motion, and energy level will be measured, ensuring that the group remains cohesive at all times.

In group sequences, the intensity of movement and expressiveness must be balanced among all members.

Movements are expected to be precise and well-structured, avoiding imbalances that affect the visual harmony of the group.

Differences in performance between dancers, as well as variations in intensity or energy that disrupt the team's uniformity, will be penalized.

Key Elements of Dancehall Performance

Definition and cleanliness in the movements: Each step must be executed with clarity, intention, and correct alignment.

Control and fluidity: The performance should reflect the groove and essence of Dancehall without rigidity.

Group Sync: Cohesion and rhythmic adjustment are fundamental in group choreographies.

Attitude and authenticity: The performance must be genuine, transmitting the characteristic energy of Dancehall.

The visual impact of Dancehall is a key element that reinforces the authenticity and energy of the style. The overall aesthetic of the performance will be evaluated, including costumes, makeup, visual cohesion, and stage expression, ensuring that each element enhances the essence of Dancehall and its cultural identity.

5.1 Costume and Characterization (10 points)

Evaluate the coherence of the costume with the choreographic proposal and the identity of Dancehall, ensuring that it reinforces the stage image without affecting the technical execution.

The wardrobe should reflect the attitude, energy, and essence of Dancehall, using comfortable, urban-style clothing that is representative of the genre.

The use of vibrant colors, eye-catching prints, and accessories will be valued, as long as they do not interfere with mobility or the execution of movements.

In group choreographies, the costumes must maintain visual cohesion, allowing the ensemble to project a uniform image without detracting from the identity of each performer.

Clothing is expected to be functional and comfortable, ensuring complete freedom of movement for the proper execution of the groove and the characteristic steps of Dancehall.

Inappropriate attire that restricts mobility or does not represent the Dancehall aesthetic will be penalized.

For soloists: The costume will be evaluated to ensure it enhances stage presence without compromising the fluidity of movement.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The uniformity and harmony of the wardrobe will be analyzed, ensuring that all members project a cohesive and well-structured image.

Key Elements of Visual Impact in Dancehall

Consistency with Dancehall culture: The aesthetics must be aligned with the style and music chosen.

Functionality of the changing room: It should allow complete freedom of movement without interfering with the execution of the steps.

Striking and well-crafted style: Creativity in the choice of clothing and details that enhance the performance will be valued.

Group uniformity with individual identity: In group choreographies, the costumes must reinforce cohesion without losing the authenticity of each dancer.

Emotional connection is one of the essential pillars of Dancehall, as this dance style is not only based on technical execution but also on the genuine expression, attitude, and energy conveyed by the dancers. Beyond the precision of the steps, this block assesses the performers' ability to project confidence, convey self-assurance, and reinforce their stage presence with a strong and authentic attitude.

6.1 Stage Projection (5 points)

Evaluates the presence, attitude, and expressiveness of the dancer or group on stage, ensuring that the performance is powerful and realistic.

Dancehall stagecraft must be authentic, energetic, and full of attitude, reflecting the culture and essence of the style.

Performers are expected to maintain a strong and confident presence, avoiding neutral or disconnected expressions from the music.

Facial expressions, body language, and connection to the music should be natural and aligned with the energy of Dancehall, without exaggeration or overacting.

In group choreographies, all members must project the same intensity and commitment, ensuring cohesion in the performance.

Lack of expressiveness, disconnection from the music, or a weak stage attitude that affects the performance will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to fill the stage with their presence and how they achieve a real connection with the audience and the music will be evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The uniformity of the stage projection of all members will be measured, ensuring that energy and expressiveness are homogeneous.

Key Elements of Emotional Connection in Dancehall

Authenticity in interpretation: The expression and energy must be real and in tune with the music.

Strong stage presence: Attitude and energy must remain constant throughout the presentation.

Interaction with the audience and the music: Sand will assess the ability to generate visual and emotional impact on viewers.

Group cohesion: In groups, the emotional connection must be uniform, projecting collective strength in execution.

To ensure fairness and compliance with competition standards, deductions will be applied if participants fail to meet certain technical or structural aspects of their presentation.

Deductions will be subtracted from the total score obtained in the evaluation and will apply to soloists, duos, trios, teams, groups, and mega groups.

7.1 Time Exceeded (3 points will be deducted for every 10 seconds over the maximum time allowed.)

Each category has a set time limit for submission.

If the total choreography time exceeds the maximum allowed, 3 points will be deducted for every additional 10 seconds.

The duration must strictly adhere to tournament regulations to avoid penalties.

Suggestion: It is advisable to rehearse with a stopwatch to ensure that the choreography does not exceed the time limit.

7.2 Abrupt Musical Editing (5 points will be deducted if the music ends abruptly.)

The music editing should be clean and fluid, ensuring that the track ends naturally or with a proper closure.

If the music cuts off suddenly or without a fade out, a 5-point deduction will be applied.

The editing must be aligned with the choreographic concept, avoiding cuts that disrupt the performance experience.

Suggestion: It is recommended to review the track edition before the event and ensure it has a clean finish.

Key Elements to Avoid Deductions

Check the duration of the choreography: Make sure the music doesn't exceed the time limit.

Edit music correctly: Avoid abrupt cuts or unexpected terminations.

Rehearse with the final track: Check that the musical version fits well with the choreography before the competition.

Important Note:

Restriction of Dangerous Movements:

The use of whiplash and whiplash is prohibited in the Baby and Children categories.

In the other categories, it is recommended to pay special attention to the choice of movements, always prioritizing the safety of the dancers.

Use of Elements and Accessories on Stage:

The choice of music should be related to the elements used and the story you want to tell or develop in the choreography.

It is recommended to create situations and construct narratives that can be adapted to the group, taking into account the age and profile of the dancers.

The use of adult stories in children's choreography is discouraged.

Rules on the Use of Scenic Elements:

There will be no restrictions on the use of props, as long as they are not watery or remain on the stage after the performance, as they could interfere with the next act.

The use of fire, flares, or flammable materials is prohibited, as they pose a risk to the safety of participants and the public.

If props are used, the group must remove them during the blackout to ensure the continuity of the event.

Consideration of Skills:

Skills from other disciplines or dance styles outside the competition will not be evaluated.

The evaluation process is based on a detailed form covering various aspects of the presentation. The items evaluated and their corresponding scores are detailed below:

Technique (30 points):

Precision, control, and technical quality in the execution of movements are assessed, including fluid transitions and body control.

Choreography (30 points):

Creativity and originality.

Technical complexity.

Efficient use of stage space.

Musicality (10 points):

Precise interpretation and connection with the rhythmic and dynamic elements of the music.

Execution (15 points):

Soloists (15 points):

Stage presence, individual projection, and the ability to maintain precision and expressiveness throughout the performance are valued.

Duos, Trios, Teams, Groups and Mega Groups (15 points):

It includes synchronization, cohesion and uniformity among the members, ensuring a homogeneous collective performance.

Visual Impact (10 points):

Costumes and characterization, aligned with the style and artistic proposal of the choreography.

Emotional Connection (5 points):

Ability to convey emotions, stage projection and connection with the audience.

Total: 100 points

Deductions:

Time exceeded: -3 points for every 10 seconds additional to the maximum allowed time (after the 10-second tolerance).

Abrupt musical edition: -5 points if the music ends abruptly.

The teacher is responsible for the entry and exit of his students on stage, and for reviewing the manner of exit and entry.

He is legally responsible for each of his students and himself, and must sign a participation agreement before the event and present the documentation, including photocopies of the under-18 age categories, with the authorization of the parents.

The organization requires the instructor to take out liability insurance for their equipment, students, assistants, or companions, in case of injuries or any other damages that participants under their care may suffer. Otherwise, the instructor will be held responsible for any inconveniences arising from such incidents.

The teacher must have read and understood these regulations. I am only directing this to teachers who handle and use dance techniques with their students, understanding that they may be re-categorized depending on whether or not their presentation has the corresponding technique, and they may never discuss the jury's decision.

IMPORTANT: Children under 2 (two) years old do not pay admission, but neither do OCCUPY SEAT, otherwise they will have to pay the same.

It is prohibited to occupy the aisles, standing or sitting, for whatever reason.

Each person must remain in their seat throughout the entire show.

It is the teacher's obligation to transmit these rules to his or her participating audience.

At the time of the awards ceremony, only the teacher representing his or her school will go up.

Only the instructor and one adult, duly identified by the production company, will be allowed into the dressing rooms. In the case of a group of more than 30 people, mostly children, one additional adult will be allowed in.

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