Latin Rhythms in Azul Fest It is a celebration of the diversity, flavor, and energy that characterize Latin America's most representative dance styles. This space combines passion, technique, and charisma, allowing performers to explore the cultural richness of genres such as salsa, merengue, bachata, cumbia, cha-cha-chá, and more.

Each Latin Rhythm choreography must emphasize the connection to the music, fluidity of movement, and the authentic expression of the essence of each style. Creativity in choreographic design, dynamic transitions, and the ability to convey joy and emotion to the audience are valued. This style prioritizes both technical precision and the spontaneity and attitude of the performers.

The goal of Latin Rhythms at Azul Fest is to offer a space where cultural richness, rhythm, and passion come together to create captivating performances. This style celebrates group energy and emotional connection, bringing the vibrant essence of Latin America to the stage.

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 Salsa and Bachata, more weight will be given to musicality and connection as a couple.

In Cha-Cha-Chá and Mambo, technical precision and rhythmic clarity will be emphasized.

In Rumba and Bolero, interpretation and expressiveness will be determining factors.

Technique in Latin Rhythms is essential for the correct execution of steps and fluidity in performance. Each style has its own characteristics that must be respected to maintain its authenticity. Precision, body control, posture, movement execution, and connection to the music will be evaluated.

1.1 Execution of movements (10 points)

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

Salsa and Bachata: Clear execution of basic steps and turns is expected, with proper weight distribution and fluid movements. In pairs, a natural connection should be maintained.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: Clarity of footwork, fluidity of weight shifts, and correct musical timing will be assessed.

Mambo and Rumba: Body projection, core activation, and stylized execution of movements will be analyzed.

Bolero: Emphasis will be placed on smooth movements, harmony in partner movements, and emotional connection in execution.

Undefined steps, rigid movements or movements disconnected from the essence of the style 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)

Evaluates body alignment, proper core activation, and fluidity of movement.

Salsa and Mambo: A balance between relaxation and control is expected, maintaining an upright but natural posture.

Bachata and Bolero: Hip mobility and connection within a couple will be assessed, ensuring harmonious and stylized movements.

Cha-Cha-Cha and Rumba: Torso posture, arm work, and stability during turns will be analyzed.

Merengue: Focus on proper weight distribution to maintain rhythm with agility and precision.

Slouching postures, lack of movement control, or movements without a clear intention will be penalized.

For soloists: The ability to maintain a firm posture without losing naturalness in the performance will be measured.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Coherence in group posture and fluidity in transitions will be assessed.

1.3 Body control (10 points)

Evaluates communication between dancers in styles that require interaction, ensuring fluidity and synchronization.

Salsa and Rueda de Casino: The clarity of the leader's guidance and the follower's response will be analyzed, maintaining a harmonious connection.

Bachata and Bolero: Sensitivity in physical contact and naturalness in joint movements will be valued.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: The focus will be on synchronization and proper timing between the dancers.

Mambo and Rumba: Expressiveness in pairs and fluid interaction without interruptions in performance will be evaluated.

Obvious disconnections, sudden movements, or lack of synchronization in changes of direction will be penalized.

For soloists: The ability to interpret movements without losing connection to the music will be measured.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Synchronization in execution and harmony in interaction will be analyzed.

Choreography in Latin Rhythms should reflect creativity, dynamism, and authenticity, respecting the essence of each style. The choreographer's ability to structure a fluid and balanced composition with clean transitions, strategic use of space, and connection to 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.

Salsa and Bachata: The choreography is expected to combine traditional and modern movements, with changes of direction, turns and dynamic patterns.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: Fluency in the execution of rhythmic steps and creative sequences that highlight musicality will be valued.

Mambo and Rumba: Expressiveness in the interpretation and the integration of dynamic variations in the movements will be analyzed.

Bolero: Emphasis will be placed on fluidity and elegance of movement, ensuring harmonious transitions for couples.

Choreographies without a clear structure, with repetitive sequences or without a defined intention 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.

Salsa and Mambo: A smooth integration of quick footwork, changes of direction and spin sequences is expected.

Bachata and Bolero: The connection between partners and the ability to execute sensual and fluid movements without losing precision will be analyzed.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: The use of complex step sequences and well-executed rhythmic combinations will be valued.

Rumba: A choreography that combines technique and expressiveness, integrating theatrical movements and changes in intensity, is expected.

Choreographies with low difficulty, monotonous sequences, or lack of exploration of the characteristic body language of each rhythm 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.

Salsa and Rueda de Casino: A dynamic occupation of space is expected, with well-structured formations and partner changes.

Bachata and Bolero: The use of expansive and closed movements in pairs will be evaluated, ensuring fluid movement.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: Correct stage placement and interaction with other dancers will be assessed.

Mambo and Rumba: The use of levels, changes of direction and movements that enrich the staging will be analyzed.

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 a determining factor in Latin Rhythms, as these styles have a strong connection to percussion, dynamic changes, and rhythmic interpretation. Dancers will be evaluated on their ability to synchronize movements with musical accents, reflect rhythmic variations, and project the energy of each style.

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.

Salsa and Mambo: Dancers are expected to accurately mark rhythmic accents, respecting the characteristic musical timing of each style (On1, On2, Caleña, etc.) and varying the energy according to changes in tempo.

Bachata and Bolero: The connection between melody and movement will be valued, ensuring that changes in intensity in the music are reflected in the dance.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: The fluidity of the steps' execution in relation to the rhythmic base will be analyzed, maintaining precise synchronization.

Rumba: The use of pauses, contrasts, and expressiveness in the interpretation of accents and dynamic changes will be assessed.

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 Latin 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 Latin 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 Latin 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.

Salsa and Mambo: Controlled execution of turns, precision in footwork, and natural body language are expected.

Bachata and Bolero: The fluidity of hip movements, movement control, and connection to the music will be analyzed.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: Clarity in step execution, correct timing, and coordination between the upper and lower body will be assessed.

Rumba: The dancer's expressiveness will be evaluated, ensuring a theatrical and stylized interpretation of the movement.

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.

Salsa and Rueda de Casino: Partner changes are expected to be synchronized and fluid, avoiding mismatches in execution times.

Bachata and Bolero: Harmony in group performance and coordination in partner movements will be analyzed.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: Accuracy in pacing and uniformity in posture and movement will be assessed.

Mambo and Rumba: The interaction between the dancers and the visual cohesion in the changes of levels and directions will be evaluated.

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 Latin 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 should reflect the character of each Latin rhythm.

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

The visual impact of Latin 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.

Salsa and Mambo: An elegant and striking wardrobe is expected, with vibrant colors, fringes, or sparkles that reinforce the aesthetic of the style.

Bachata and Bolero: The use of flowing, sensual clothing that promotes mobility and enhances the connection between partners will be valued.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: The wardrobe will be analyzed based on the dynamics of the rhythm, with garments that allow for quick movements and precise marking.

Rumba: The integration of stage elements, such as full skirts, scarves, or clothing that highlights the expressiveness of the style, will be evaluated.

Inappropriate attire that restricts mobility or does not represent the essence of the Latin 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 Latin 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 Latin Rhythms, as these styles convey energy, sensuality, strength, and joy. Beyond technique, this block 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.

Salsa and Mambo: A vibrant and charismatic projection is expected, reflecting the joy and dynamism of the style.

Bachata and Bolero: The ability to convey sensuality and emotion through movement and connection with one's partner will be valued.

Merengue and Cha-Cha-Chá: The festive attitude and the ability to maintain constant energy throughout the routine will be evaluated.

Rumba: Theatrical expressiveness and depth in the interpretation of rhythm and the story to be told will be analyzed.

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 Latin 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.

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