Brazilian Rhythms in Azul Fest It's an explosion of joy, energy, and color that celebrates Brazil's cultural richness through its music and dance. This space combines the passion and vitality of styles like samba, axé, forró, and other distinctive genres, transporting the audience to a vibrant universe filled with rhythm and movement.

Each Brazilian Rhythms choreography must reflect the essence of Brazil: dynamic movements, contagious expressiveness, and an authentic connection with the music. Particularly valued are fluid transitions, group coordination, musicality, and the performers' ability to convey the joy and passion characteristic of these rhythms.

The goal of Brazilian Rhythms at Azul Fest is to offer a space where technique and creativity come together to highlight the cultural richness and unique energy of this style. Here, charisma, colorful costumes, and connection with the audience are just as important as technical execution, creating an unforgettable experience for both artists and audiences.

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

Each group will vary in the weighting of the evaluation criteria. For example:

In Samba and Axé, more emphasis will be placed on rhythmic precision and hip fluidity.

In Funk Carioca and Passinho, explosiveness, creativity and energy in the performance will be valued.

In Forró and Samba de Gafieira, the connection as a couple and musicality will be key elements.

In Frevo and Maracatú, expressive strength and physical endurance will have great weight in the evaluation.

In Lambada, the fluidity of movements, control of turns and the connection between the dancers will be highlighted.

Technique in Brazilian Rhythms is key to the correct execution and fluidity of movements. Each style has specific body mechanics that must be respected to ensure authentic performance. Precision, body control, posture, movement execution, and connection to the music will be evaluated.

1.1 Execution of movements (10 points)

Evaluates the cleanliness, precision and control in the execution of the characteristic steps of each style.

Samba No Pé and Samba de Gafieira: Mastery of footwork is expected, with emphasis on weight shifting and rhythmic fluidity.

Axé and Pagode: Energy in the execution of movements and naturalness in changes of direction will be valued.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: Explosiveness, agility, and coordination in rapid and acrobatic movements will be analyzed.

Lambada and Forró: The pair's connection and fluidity in turns and movements will be evaluated.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on expressive strength, physical endurance, and precision in jumping and moving.

Uncontrolled performances, lack of coordination, or movements outside of musical time will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to execute each movement with control, precision, and musicality will be evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Uniformity in step execution and group synchronization will be analyzed.

1.2 Transitions (10 points)

Continuity and fluidity between movements are analyzed, ensuring that transitions are organic and natural.

Samba and Axé: Transitions should flow seamlessly in the energy of the movement.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: Creativity in quick and dynamic transitions between steps will be valued.

Forró and Lambada: The smoothness of the transitions between turns and movements will be evaluated.

Frevo and Maracatú: Accuracy and control in rapid changes of direction and level will be analyzed.

Abrupt cuts or lack of fluidity in the connection of movements will be penalized.

For soloists: Each transition is expected to complement the aesthetic line of the movement, maintaining fluidity without unnecessary pauses.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Transitions must be performed synchronously, respecting the stage space and avoiding disruptions between members.

1.3 Body control (10 points)

Evaluates alignment, posture and stability during the execution of movements.

Samba and Axé: Precise hip control and stability are expected during rapid movement.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: The activation of the center will be analyzed to maintain energy and avoid imbalances.

Forró and Lambada: Control in turns and body connection in pairs without losing stability will be evaluated.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on physical endurance and body control in high-energy movements.

Slouching postures, lack of core control, and body alignment misalignments will be penalized.

For soloists: The ability to maintain balance and control in each dynamic will be measured.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Uniformity in body control among members will be evaluated.

Choreography in Brazilian Rhythms should reflect dynamism, authenticity, and a connection to the essence of each style. Creativity in composition, use of space, and fluidity in integrating movements with the music will be evaluated.

2.1 Creativity and Originality (10 points)

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

Samba and Axé: A combination of traditional steps with dynamic and explosive transitions is expected.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: Creativity in combining quick movements, pauses, and innovative footwork sequences will be valued.

Lambada and Forró: The fluidity of couple choreography construction will be analyzed, highlighting turns and movement control.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on the body's expressiveness and energy, ensuring rhythmic variations and dynamism in movements.

Choreographies that lack identity, repetitive sequences, or lack of exploration of the body language characteristic of each rhythm will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to interpret music with originality and maintain consistency in performance will be evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Group cohesion and how choreographic composition enhances interaction and synchronization 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.

Samba No Pé and Samba de Gafieira: Advanced combinations of turns, quick movements, and level changes are expected.

Axé and Pagode: Fluidity and endurance will be assessed in long sequences, without interruptions in the energy of the choreography.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: The inclusion of complex movements such as jumps, footwork sequences, and strategic pauses will be analyzed.

Lambada and Forró: Emphasis will be placed on partner connection, ensuring that figures are executed with precision and control.

Frevo and Maracatú: Physical endurance and the difficulty of acrobatic movements will be assessed.

Choreographies that lack technical challenge or movements executed without control 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.

Samba and Axé: A wide range of movements is expected, with dynamic and strategic routes on the stage.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: The use of space in multiple directions, with well-defined formations, will be valued.

Lambada and Forró: The use of space as a couple will be analyzed, ensuring fluidity in movement.

Frevo and Maracatú: The use of level changes and full stage occupancy with rapid movement will be evaluated.

Choreographies that do not take advantage of the stage space, such as empty areas or disorderly movements, 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 is an essential aspect of Brazilian Rhythms, as each is deeply connected to percussion, dynamic changes, and rhythmic interpretation. The dancers' ability to synchronize movements with musical accents, reflect rhythmic variations, and project the energy of the rhythm being performed will be evaluated.

3.1 Musical Performance (10 points)

Evaluate the relationship between movements and musical structure, ensuring that the choreography is aligned with the energy and rhythm of the style being performed.

Samba No Pé and Samba de Gafieira: Dancers are expected to accurately mark rhythmic accents, respecting the fast tempo and natural swing of the style.

Axé and Pagode: The connection between rhythm changes in the music and the execution of movements will be assessed, maintaining fluidity and dynamism.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: The ability to play with musical breaks, energy shifts, and strategic pauses will be analyzed.

Lambada and Forró: The couple's connection to musicality will be assessed, ensuring that movements and turns follow the rhythm of the song.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on rhythmic precision and the relationship between explosive movements and the percussion characteristic of these styles.

Performances that do not reflect the rhythmic structure of the music, out-of-time movements, or lack of connection to musical accents 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 Brazilian Rhythms

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 melody and percussion: Performers must project the essence of Brazilian rhythm, respecting its musical structure.

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

This block assesses precision, clarity, projection, and group cohesion within the choreography. Correct execution of movements in Brazilian Rhythms is essential to conveying the essence of each style without losing fluidity or connection to the music.

4.1 Individual Performance (Soloists) (15 points)

Evaluates the dancer's technical quality, control, and expressiveness throughout their entire performance.

Samba No Pé and Samba de Gafieira: Controlled execution of turns, precision in footwork, and natural body language are expected.

Axé and Pagode: The fluidity and energy in the interpretation of movements will be analyzed, avoiding rigidity or monotonous repetitions.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: Power and precision in quick, explosive steps will be assessed, ensuring control in changes of direction.

Lambada and Forró: Connection and fluidity as a couple will be assessed, ensuring a natural and harmonious performance.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on the dancer's expressiveness and physical endurance in high-intensity movements.

Performances with a lack of control, imprecise movements, or disconnection from the music will be penalized.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to perform with precision and stage projection will be evaluated, ensuring an interpretation faithful to the style.

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

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

Samba and Axé: Formation changes and movements are expected to be synchronized and fluid.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: Coordination in the visual effects generated by the steps will be analyzed, maintaining collective energy.

Lambada and Forró: The connection between partners and the harmony in turns and movements will be evaluated.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on synchronizing rhythmic movements with the percussion of the style.

Significant differences in performance quality, lack of synchronization, or lack of uniformity in group expression 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 quality and technical level.

Symmetry in movements, posture, and quality of movement will be analyzed, ensuring that the group remains cohesive at all times.

In group sequences, intensity and energy must be kept 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 Performance in Brazilian Rhythms

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

Group Sync: Cohesion in movement and rhythm is essential in group choreography.

Expressiveness and connection with music: The interpretation must reflect the character of each Brazilian rhythm.

Constant energy: The execution must be maintained with the same intensity from start to finish.

The visual impact of Brazilian Rhythms is essential to complementing the artistic proposal. It includes aspects such as costumes, makeup, and the overall aesthetic of the performance. These elements must align with the intention of the choreography and reinforce the intended message.

5.1 Costume and Characterization (10 points)

Evaluate the aesthetic coherence of the costumes and accessories in relation to the artistic concept of the choreography.

Samba No Pé and Samba de Gafieira: Expect eye-catching attire, featuring vibrant colors, feathers, sequins, and details that highlight movement.

Axé and Pagode: Comfortable, dynamic clothing that facilitates mobility and projects the style's festive energy will be valued.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: Urban and modern clothing will be analyzed, with outfits that represent the streetwise and youthful essence of the genre.

Lambada and Forró: The couple's wardrobe will be evaluated, prioritizing flowing garments that enhance their characteristic turns and movements.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on folkloric aesthetics, including colorful skirts, Frevo umbrellas, and traditional clothing.

Inappropriate attire that restricts mobility or does not represent the essence of the Brazilian rhythm performed will be penalized.

For soloists: The costumes are expected to enhance the dancer's stage presence and maintain harmony with the music and artistic concept.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The uniformity or coordination of the team's attire will be evaluated, ensuring that it reinforces the group's aesthetic without losing individuality.

Key Elements of Visual Impact in Brazilian Rhythms

Conceptual coherence: The costumes and visual elements must be aligned with the artistic proposal.

Functionality: Accessories and clothing should be practical and not interfere with the execution of movements.

Style and creativity: Originality in visual presentation will be valued.

Group uniformity: In group choreographies, the visual elements should generate a sense of unity.

Emotional connection is a key aspect of Brazilian Rhythms, as these styles convey joy, energy, passion, and authenticity. Beyond technique, this section assesses the performers' ability to project their energy, connect with the audience, and reinforce the artistic narrative of the choreography.

6.1 Stage Projection (5 points)

Evaluate the presence and attitude of the dancer or group on stage, ensuring that each movement is charged with intention and expressiveness.

Samba No Pé and Samba de Gafieira: A vibrant projection is expected, with a confident and festive attitude that reflects the essence of the Brazilian Carnival.

Axé and Pagode: Constant energy and the ability to interact with the audience, conveying the joy characteristic of the genre, will be valued.

Funk Carioca and Passinho: The dancer's defiant and charismatic attitude will be analyzed, ensuring that each step has character and determination.

Lambada and Forró: Expression and connection will be assessed as a couple, ensuring that the performance flows naturally.

Frevo and Maracatú: Emphasis will be placed on the intensity of expression and the dancer's relationship with percussion and rhythm.

Performances lacking clear intent, neutral expressions, or a lack of connection with the essence of the rhythm will be penalized.

For soloists: The evaluation will assess how the dancer manages to fill the stage with their presence and how their individual performance impacts the audience.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: It will be assessed that all members project the same energy, avoiding differences in intensity that could break cohesion.

Key Elements in the Stage Projection of Brazilian Rhythms

Emotional authenticity: Performers must reflect genuine emotions in their movements.

Stage presence: Attitude and energy must be constant and consistent throughout the routine.

Interaction with the public: The ability to generate a direct emotional impact on viewers will be valued.

Group cohesion: In groups, the emotional connection must be uniform, projecting itself as a team.

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.

We are now available to answer any questions you may have.

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