Afro Fusion in Azul Fest Celebrates the cultural richness and versatility of movements inspired by traditional African dances, fused with contemporary and modern styles. This space invites participants to explore the diversity of rhythms, energy, and expressiveness that characterize this unique style.

Each choreography must convey a deep connection with the music, highlighting the power, intensity, and fluidity of Afro Fusion's movements. This style prioritizes authentic interpretation, creativity in the fusion of styles, and the performer's emotional connection with their audience.

The goal of Afro Fusion is to create a vibrant and dynamic experience, where traditional movements combine with modern elements to tell stories and convey emotions, highlighting the cultural and artistic essence of the style.

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.

Afro Fusion It is a dance style characterized by the integration of fluid, rhythmic, and explosive movements, combining African dance techniques with contemporary influences. To evaluate the technique in this discipline, the following aspects applicable to soloists, duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups.

1.1 Execution of movements (10 points)

Evaluates precision, control, and technical quality in the execution of fundamental steps and choreographic combinations.

In Afro Fusion, the movements must be energetic but controlled, ensuring fluidity without losing the power characteristic of the style.

Technical mastery is expected in the execution of steps such as Azonto Steps, Kuduro Kicks, Amapiano Grooves, Ndombolo Isolations, among others.

Correct distribution of body weight and activation of the core (abdominal and lumbar areas) allow movements to be performed with greater stability and safety.

For soloists: Individual mastery of the body and precision in the execution of each movement are valued, since there is no other dancer who can complement their performance.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: In addition to individual performance, the synchronization of movements is measured, avoiding visual imbalances between the members.

1.2 Transitions (10 points)

The continuity between movements within the choreography is analyzed, avoiding abrupt pauses that affect the fluidity of the presentation.

Afro Fusion It is distinguished by dynamic transitions, which may include movements with level changes, chained turns and combinations of rhythmic bounces.

The transition between sequences must respect the musical intention and groove of the style, maintaining a coherent connection with the rhythm.

Proper use of transitions helps maintain the energy of the choreography without creating visual interruptions.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to maintain a constant flow of movement without unnecessary pauses or forced transitions is evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: It measures how changes between positions and levels are coordinated between dancers, ensuring harmony in the staging.

1.3 Body control (10 points)

Alignment, posture and stability in the execution of movements are evaluated, reflecting physical and technical mastery.

Afro Fusion demands Precise isolations and segmented movements, combined with bursts of energy at key moments.

The core plays a fundamental role in stability during impact movements and in maintaining balance during elevated leg combinations.

The control technique in Afro Fusion It is also reflected in the ability to contract and relax the body at different times, ensuring contrasts between tension and fluidity.

Adaptability to the ground is another key element, as many choreographies incorporate descents and movements at low levels that require control and strength in the legs and core.

For soloists: It measures self-management of balance and control without external references, which requires greater precision and body awareness.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The uniformity of body control among performers is assessed, ensuring that movements maintain a homogeneous level within the choreography.

The choreography in Afro Fusion It focuses not only on the combination of movements, but also on the construction of a rhythmic and expressive narrative that highlights the essence of modern Afro styles. This evaluation block considers creativity, technical complexity, and the use of space within the staging, applying to soloists as well as duos, trios, teams, groups, and mega-groups.

2.1 Creativity and Originality (10 points)

Evaluates the innovation in the movements, combinations and artistic design of the choreography.

Afro Fusion It allows a fusion of traditional and urban elements, so creativity is manifested in the way steps of different styles are combined (Azonto, Kuduro, Afrohouse, Amapiano, Ndombolo, etc.).

The choreographer's or solo dancer's ability to reinterpret traditional movements within a modern context without losing the essence of the African groove is valued.

Originality is measured through the use of level changes, unexpected rhythmic structures, and the way performers engage with the music through their bodies.

The incorporation of varied movement textures is encouraged, contrasting between explosiveness, undulations and bounces.

For soloists: Creativity is measured by your ability to hold the viewer's attention by using contrasts of movement, expression, and dynamic changes that make the choreography engaging and original.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The way in which dancers interact with each other is considered, developing complementary movements and using the group to create striking visual effects.

2.2 Technical Complexity (10 points)

The level of difficulty of the movements is considered, including precise isolations, rapid sequences, dynamic changes, and level variations within the choreography.

Afro Fusion It combines asymmetrical and syncopated rhythmic patterns, requiring advanced groove mastery to execute changes of weight and direction with precision.

Choreographies that challenge dancers to manage musical setbacks and execute movements simultaneously with variations in different parts of the body are valued.

Use of fusion styles: The fluid combination of several modern Afro styles is appreciated, maintaining coherence in the choreographic structure.

For soloists: Individual technical difficulty is considered, such as changes in rhythm, isolation of body segments, and weight control without group support.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: In addition to individual difficulty, the coordination and complexity of the dancers' interactions are measured, including synchronized turns, formation changes, and variations in ensemble dynamics.

2.3 Use of Space (10 points)

The distribution and use of the stage space in relation to music and movements are analyzed.

Afro Fusion, being a discipline with a strong visual impact, requires a strategic and varied use of space, avoiding dead zones within the stage.

The dancer or group's approach to the stage is evaluated, using diagonal movements, circles, or irregular patterns to enhance the performance.

The interaction between performers in creative formations and dynamic transitions is valued, ensuring that each movement has a scenic purpose.

For soloists: The use of space must be expressive and varied, ensuring that the dancer constructs an expansive bodily narrative, avoiding being limited to a single point on the stage.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The use of space is assessed based on the formation, transitions between positions, and how each performer complements the staging.

Musicality is a key aspect in Afro Fusion, as this discipline is born from the direct connection between movement and music. Dancers must demonstrate a deep understanding of groove, adapting to the rhythmic structure and dynamic changes of the music.

This section will assess the dancer's or group's ability to interpret music with precise, expressive movements in sync with the Afro rhythmic base.

3.1 Musical Performance (10 points)

Evaluate the dancer or group's connection to the music, ensuring that movements are in harmony with the rhythmic and dynamic elements of the chosen theme.

Afro Fusion It is characterized by its intimate relationship with rhythm, where the dancers not only follow the music, but also "dialogue" with it through movement.

Performers are expected to play with different musical accents, alternating between impactful and fluid movements depending on the intensity of the music.

The ability to interpret tempo changes and rhythmic variations is valued, ensuring a performance faithful to the nuances of the musical composition.

In styles such as Amapiano, Ndombolo, Afrohouse either Descaled Coupe, the dancer's ability to maintain the groove is essential, emphasizing knee bounces, torso contractions and isolations to the beat.

For soloists: The dancer's independence is explored in order to mark each rhythmic detail without external references, using his or her body as a visual percussion instrument.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Collective synchronization with the music is assessed, ensuring that all dancers interpret the musicality accurately, without creating gaps or abrupt breaks in the choreography.

Key Elements of Musicality in Afro Fusion

Constant groove: The movements should maintain a fluid and natural feel with the music.

Dynamic changes: Variations between explosiveness and softness, respecting the structure of the song.

Synchronization: The dancer or group must mark the main beats clearly.

Use of silence: Knowing how to pause or slow down movements in moments of low musical impact, generating scenic contrasts.

Adaptation to different styles within Afro Fusion: Each rhythm has particularities and movement patterns that must be respected.

This block evaluates the quality of the dancer's or group's performance, ensuring precision, uniformity, and visual coherence within the choreography.

For soloists, the ability to perform with quality, control and stage presence, maintaining consistency from beginning to end, is measured.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups, group synchronization and cohesion are assessed, ensuring that movements are performed with collective uniformity and precision.

4.1 Individual Performance (Soloists) (15 points)

Evaluates the dancer's precision, control, and projection throughout their entire performance.

A solo dancer must demonstrate complete self-control of movement, avoiding synchronization errors or mismatches with the music.

The performance should convey strength and confidence, using the body as a means of expression without depending on other dancers.

In Afro Fusion, the energy must remain constant and connected to the groove, avoiding abrupt cuts or loss of intensity.

The ability to adapt to changes in pace is measured, ensuring that each transition is executed smoothly.

For soloists: Endurance, precision, and consistency in the execution of movements are valued, ensuring quality from start to finish.

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

Coordination between dancers is analyzed, ensuring that everyone maintains the same timing and rhythm without any discrepancies.

Afro Fusion requires groups to synchronize with the groove, maintaining uniformity in the bounce and marking of the beats.

Members are expected to perform movements with the same intensity and energy, avoiding visual differences within the team.

During formation changes, transitions must be executed precisely, ensuring that the dancers move in harmony without affecting the fluidity of the choreography.

Synchronization is evaluated based on the clarity of movement and the rhythmic adjustment of each dancer with respect to the others.

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 energy.

Consistency in posture, range of motion, and intensity level is measured, avoiding differences between team members.

A cohesive group should move as a fluid unit, where each dancer reinforces the visual structure without standing out individually (unless intentional within the choreography).

Clean formations, synchronous transitions, and unity in the interpretation of movements are valued.

Key Elements of Execution in Afro Fusion

Definition of movements: All steps must be executed with clarity and power.

Connection with music: The execution must respond directly to the rhythmic accents.

Fluency and control: The dancer or group must move confidently and naturally, without forcing movements.

Accuracy and timing: For groups, accuracy in joint execution is essential.

The visual impact on Afro Fusion It is key to complementing the technical execution and choreography. The dancers' overall appearance, costumes, and makeup contribute to the aesthetic coherence and atmosphere of the performance. This section assesses the dancers' ability to use image as an expressive resource, ensuring that the visual approach reinforces the style's identity.

5.1 Costume and Characterization (10 points)

Evaluate the aesthetic coherence of the costumes and characterization in relation to the choreographic proposal and the identity of the Afro Fusion.

Clothing should allow for mobility and comfort, without affecting the execution of movements.

The use of cultural and urban elements that reflect the essence of the Afro Fusion, integrating vibrant colors, ethnic prints, dynamic textures or contemporary references to African urban dance.

In some styles, such as Ndombolo either Afrohouse, it is common to use accessories such as glasses, hats or scarves, as long as they complement the proposal without limiting its execution.

The costumes are expected to be aesthetically appealing, but not overshadow the dance.

For soloists: The dancer's ability to convey the essence of the style through his or her wardrobe without losing mobility is evaluated.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Visual uniformity is measured, ensuring that the wardrobe maintains a cohesive aesthetic without necessarily being identical between team members.

Key Elements of Visual Impact in Afro Fusion

Coherence with the artistic proposal: The costumes must be aligned with the concept of the choreography.

Mobility and practicality: It should allow movements to be executed without restrictions.

Style and personality: Originality in presentation is valued, while maintaining the identity of the dancer or team.

Visual cleaning: In groups, the combination of clothing should create harmony without unnecessary distractions.

Emotional connection is a fundamental aspect in Afro Fusion, as this discipline is based on the transmission of energy, joy, and expression. Beyond technique and execution, the dancers' interpretation plays a key role in creating a connection with the audience and conveying the spirit of the style.

This evaluation block measures the dancer's or group's ability to project emotions, communicate stage intention, and capture the audience's attention.

6.1 Stage Projection (5 points)

The stage projection assesses the dancers' presence, attitude, and energy during their performance, reflecting the vibrant and positive nature of the Afro Fusion style.

For soloists: It measures how the performer fills the stage with their energy and charisma, projecting confidence and a direct connection with the audience.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Uniformity in projection among members is valued, ensuring that everyone maintains a consistent energy and represents the collective spirit of the choreography.

In Afro Fusion, it is essential that the projection reflects the joy, freedom, and social energy characteristic of this style.

Key Elements in the Stage Projection of Afro Fusion

Confidence and vibrant attitude: Every movement should project confidence and joy.

Connection with the public: The energy should convey a sense of community and positivity.

Group uniformity: In duos, trios, teams, groups, and megagroups, the projection must be consistent and reflect unity.

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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