Jazz Dance in Azul Fest It is a celebration of the versatility, elegance, and energy that characterize this style. This space combines technique, musicality, and expressiveness, offering performers the opportunity to explore stylized and dynamic movements that capture the essence of jazz.

Each Jazz Dance choreography must reflect technical precision, well-defined body lines, fluid transitions, and a strong connection to the music. Creativity in choreographic designs, emotionally charged interpretation, and the performers' ability to convey energy and charisma to the audience are valued. From classic jazz to modern fusions, this genre allows for the exploration of a wide variety of artistic expressions.

The goal of Jazz Dance at Azul Fest is to highlight the balance between technique and creativity, promoting innovation and emotional connection in every performance. This style celebrates the passion and power of movement, providing a stage where performance and technical excellence come together in perfect harmony.

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.

Jazz dance encompasses a wide range of styles, each with distinctive characteristics in technique, musicality, and expression. The main categories are detailed below:

1. Traditional Jazz

This style is based on the original movements of Jazz, characterized by its energy, improvisation, and syncopated rhythms. It incorporates elements such as twists, jumps, and rhythmic movements that reflect the essence of classic Jazz.

2. Jazz Broadway

Known for its presence in theaters and musicals, Broadway Jazz combines jazz technique with theatrical elements. It is characterized by stylized, expressive movements and a strong connection to theatrical narrative.

3. Lyrical Jazz

This style fuses jazz techniques with contemporary dance, focusing on emotional expression and fluid movement. It seeks to convey deep feelings through smooth and controlled performances.

4. Jazz Funk

A blend of jazz and urban styles like hip-hop, jazz funk is characterized by dynamic, energetic, and attitude-filled movements. It's commonly used in music videos and commercial productions.

5. Contemporary Jazz

This style integrates elements of jazz and contemporary dance, allowing for greater freedom of movement and artistic exploration. It focuses on technique, emotional expression, and choreographic innovation.

6. Commercial Jazz

It fuses jazz with elements from the commercial world, including influences from pop and entertainment. It is the predominant style in choreography for music videos, television shows, and artist performances. It is characterized by its explosive energy and the combination of stylized movements with a strong stage presence.

7. Latin Jazz

This style incorporates elements of Latin rhythms such as Salsa, Mambo, and Cha-Cha-Chá into the technique of Jazz. It is characterized by fluidity in the hips, the use of pronounced weight shifts, and a rhythmic connection to Latin music.

In Jazz Dance, the technique is essential to project strength, precision and fluidity, respecting the specific characteristics of each variant, whether traditional jazz, modern jazz, lyrical jazz, contemporary jazz, funk, Broadway, Latin jazz, commercial jazz or any other subvariantThis evaluation block covers the following aspects:

1.1 Execution of movements (10 points)

Evaluate the precision, control and technical quality of the characteristic movements of the style or variant of Jazz presented.

Each variation has technical specificities that must be respected during execution. For example:

Traditional Jazz and Broadway: Marked movements, long lines and emphasis on stage drama.

Lyrical jazz and contemporary jazz: Fluid movements, expressiveness and emotional connection.

Funk and Commercial Jazz: Explosive energy, emphasis on stage presence and charisma in performance.

Latin Jazz: Rhythmic and dynamic movements that incorporate the essence and musicality of Latin dances.

Movements are expected to be clean and defined, avoiding ambiguous executions that do not reflect the essence of the selected variation.

Fusions between variants must be executed clearly, respecting the technique specific to each one.

For soloists: The ability to project a solid and precise execution, maintaining the essence of the variant or fusion of variants, is measured.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: In addition to individual performance, joint technical coherence is assessed, ensuring that all members adhere to the technical foundations of the selected style.

1.2 Transitions (10 points)

The analysis is made continuity between movements, ensuring that transitions are fluid and natural, without interruptions in the energy of the choreography.

Transitions must respect the dynamics of the style or variant presented:

For example, in contemporary or lyrical jazz, the movements are usually smooth and expansive.

In Broadway or funk, they can be more marked and energetic.

In Latin Jazz, transitions should reflect the rhythmic connection characteristic of Latin dances.

Transitions between variants should be clear and well-defined, avoiding visual confusion.

Transitions that are abrupt or affect the overall flow of the choreography will be penalized.

For soloists: Each transition should complement the aesthetics of the movement, connecting the styles or sequences in a coherent manner.

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)

It assesses physical and technical mastery, reflected in alignment, posture and stability during execution.

Each variant of Jazz requires body control adapted to its style:

In contemporary or lyrical jazz, conscious control of the body's core is expected for movements of great amplitude and fluidity.

In Broadway or funk, control must reflect strength and precision in explosive movements.

In Latin Jazz, control should allow for rhythmic and energetic movements, with an emphasis on isolating the hips and torso.

Body weight management is essential for smooth transitions and safe executions, especially in dynamic combinations that include spins, jumps, or landings.

For soloists: The ability to maintain balance, control, and strength in all dynamics is evaluated, adapting to the characteristics of the style presented.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: Uniformity in body control among members is measured, ensuring that everyone maintains a consistent posture and technique.

Key Elements in Jazz Dance Technique

Adaptation to the variant: Each technique must respect the specific bases of the style or subvariant presented.

Fluidity and cleanliness: The movements must be executed clearly and without interruptions in energy.

Projection and accuracy: The posture, lines, and technical details must reflect the essence of Jazz in any of its variations.

Group uniformity: In group choreographies, all members must execute the movements with the same quality and energy, respecting the selected style.

The choreography in Jazz Dance It must reflect the richness and diversity of the style, adapting to the particularities of its variants such as traditional jazz, modern jazz, lyrical jazz, contemporary jazz, funk, broadway, Latin jazz and commercial jazzThis block assesses creativity, technical complexity, and efficient use of stage space.

2.1 Creativity and Originality (10 points)

Evaluates the choreographer's ability to create a unique, dynamic proposal adapted to the Jazz variant presented.

Each variant has particular characteristics that must be present in the choreography:

Broadway: Theatrical, dramatic and charismatic choreographies.

Contemporary and Lyrical Jazz: Emotional narratives with fluid movements.

Latin Jazz: Rhythmic and energetic proposals that reflect the essence of Latin dance.

Commercial Jazz and Funk: Commercial choreographies with an emphasis on stage presence and explosive movements.

Originality is valued in the combinations of movements, formations, and stage design, avoiding repetitions or clichés.

The fusion between variants must be intentional and well-connected, showing a clear common thread.

For soloists: Creativity should allow the performer to stand out individually, exploring unique dynamics and movements.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The group's ability to work with dynamic formations, dancer interaction, and striking visual effects is analyzed.

2.2 Technical Complexity (10 points)

Evaluate the level of difficulty of the choreography, considering:

Advanced movements such as spins, jumps, isolations and rhythmic combinations.

Rapid changes in rhythm and dynamics typical of Jazz Dance.

Each variant may include specific complexities:

Lyrical and Contemporary Jazz: Floor sequences and slow turns with a high level of control.

Broadway and Funk: Rapid energy changes and marked movements.

Latin Jazz: Precise rhythmic and dynamic combinations.

The complexity must be well balanced with the dancers' execution ability.

Choreographies that are too simple or do not present technical challenges appropriate to the competitive level will be penalized.

For soloists: The choreography should highlight the performer's technical skill, ensuring that the movements are challenging yet executable.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The assessment evaluates how individual movements fit into a group performance, including fluid transitions and complex formations.

2.3 Use of Space (10 points)

Evaluate the use of the stage space, ensuring that all areas are used strategically and balanced.

In Jazz Dance, expansive movement and changes in level are essential to creating dynamism.

The choreography must integrate movements, formation changes and dynamics that enrich the visual impact.

In groups, each dancer is expected to use the space in a coordinated and synchronized manner, avoiding dead zones or stagnation.

For soloists: Control and fluidity in individual movements are valued, ensuring that the performer projects confidence in all areas of the stage.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups:The use of space should be collective, creating harmonious visual patterns and designs.

Key Elements in Jazz Dance Choreography

Adaptation to the variant: The choreography must faithfully reflect the characteristics of the selected variant(s).

Narrative and originality: Combinations of movements and formations must be creative and convey a clear message.

Visual impact: The stage design, transitions, and dynamics must capture the viewer's attention.

 

Ctechnical consistency: The complexity must be aligned with the capabilities of the group or soloist.

Musicality in Jazz Dance It is key to reflecting the connection between movements and the rhythmic and melodic elements of the music. This block assesses how dancers interpret and respond to the dynamic changes, accents, and emotions present in the music, while respecting the essence of the style's variations.

3.1 Musical Performance (10 points)

Evaluates the dancers' ability to synchronize movements with the rhythmic and melodic elements of the selected music.

Each variant of Jazz Dance has specific approaches to musical interpretation:

Broadway and Funk: Marking of strong rhythmic accents and emphasis on tempo details.

Lyrical and Contemporary Jazz: Emotional connection with melodies and changes in intensity.

Latin Jazz: Precision in the interpretation of syncopated rhythms and dynamics characteristic of Latin dances.

Commercial Jazz: Direct response to rhythmic accents and explosive energy.

The use of dynamic variations, such as smooth, explosive or sustained movements, that enrich the performance is valued.

Musicality should reflect technical and expressive mastery, conveying a deep connection with the music.

For soloists: It measures how the performer marks rhythmic and melodic changes individually, projecting a personal connection with the music.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The collective ability to interpret music in a synchronized manner is analyzed, ensuring that all members reflect the same energy and precision.

Key Elements of Musicality in Jazz Dance

Connection with musical nuances: Movements must respond to changes in tempo, intensity and accents.

Variety in interpretation: Alternate between soft, energetic, and sustained dynamics, as the music demands.

Emotional projection: Musicality must convey the intention of the music, generating a sensorial impact on the audience.

Group coherence: In group choreographies, all members must perform the music uniformly and in sync.

In Jazz Dance, execution is crucial to projecting precision, energy, and quality in every movement. This section assesses both individual technical ability and collective cohesion in groups, ensuring a consistent and visually striking performance.

4.1 Individual Performance (Soloists) (15 points)

Evaluates the dancer's ability to maintain consistent technical quality, projecting confidence and mastery in each movement.

The soloist should reflect the essence of the chosen Jazz Dance variant (for example, explosive energy in Funk, expressiveness in Lyrical Jazz or precision in Latin Jazz).

The ability to execute movements fluidly is measured, avoiding timing errors or abrupt cuts.

The performance should convey confidence, strength, and an emotional connection to the music.

Key Elements for Soloists:

Constant and safe stage projection.

Individual technical mastery in each variant.

Clarity in complex transitions and movements.

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

Coordination between members is analyzed, ensuring that all movements are synchronized and aligned with the rhythms of the music.

Cohesion includes the visual harmony of the group, where each member complements the others, avoiding differences in rhythm or intensity.

In Jazz Dance, variations such as Broadway or Funk require dynamic group transitions, while in Lyrical and Contemporary Jazz, timing must be fluid and expressive.

Transitions and formation changes must be carried out precisely and naturally, reinforcing group cohesion.

Key Elements for Duos, Trios, Teams, Groups and Mega Groups:

Precise timing in every movement.

Visual cohesion that projects group unity.

Fluidity in transitions and formation changes.

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

Evaluate the homogeneity in the execution of movements, ensuring that all dancers maintain consistent technique and energy.

Uniformity includes aspects such as posture, range of motion, and intensity level, avoiding differences that disrupt visual cohesion.

The groups are expected to project a fluid unit, where all members work as a single organization.

Clean formations and well-coordinated transitions reinforce the visual quality of the presentation.

Key Elements in Uniformity:

Synchronized and technically consistent movements.

Uniform posture and amplitude in all members.

Clean and fluid group transitions.

Key Elements of Jazz Dance Performance

Individual accuracy: The movements must be clear and technically impeccable.

Group Sync: In groups, coordination between members is essential.

Stage projection: The energy and attitude of the dancers must reflect the essence of the style presented.

Fluidity and cohesion: Formation changes and transitions should be natural and harmonious.

The visual impact on Jazz Dance It is a key element to complement the artistic proposal. It includes the costumes, characterization, and overall aesthetic of the presentation, which must align with the choreographic intention and highlight the energy and style of the selected variant.

5.1 Costume and Characterization (10 points)

Evaluate the aesthetic coherence of the costumes and accessories in relation to the Jazz Dance variant presented.

Each style may have specific requirements:

Broadway: Theatrical costumes with striking and elegant details.

Contemporary and Lyrical Jazz: Simple, flowing clothing that allows for expressiveness and highlights movement.

Latin Jazz: Vibrant attire that reflects Latin energy and rhythms.

Commercial Jazz and Funk: Modern and stylish attire, with an emphasis on projecting a commercial image.

Clothing should be functional and comfortable, allowing for proper technical execution without interfering with movement.

Characterization (makeup, hairstyles, accessories) should complement the narrative of the choreography, without overshadowing the technical execution.

For soloists: It is valued that the costumes reinforce the dancer's personality and expression, maintaining harmony with the artistic proposal.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: The uniformity or coordination of the team's attire is evaluated, projecting a cohesive group aesthetic.

Key Elements of Visual Impact in Jazz Dance

Adaptation to style: The wardrobe and visual elements should reflect the characteristics of the style or variant presented.

Functionality and comfort: Accessories and clothing must be practical, ensuring mobility and safety.

Creativity: The choice of wardrobe must add aesthetic value to the artistic proposal.

Group uniformity: In groups, the wardrobe must project a cohesive and aesthetically consistent image.

The emotional connection in Jazz Dance It is essential to convey artistic intent and captivate the audience. This section assesses how dancers manage to project emotions and generate a genuine connection with the audience, while respecting the essence of the presented variation.

6.1 Stage ProjectionNicaragua (5 points)

Evaluate the dancers' presence, attitude, and energy throughout their performance, ensuring that each movement is full of intention and expressiveness.

The stage projection must be adapted to the variant presented:

Broadway: Focus on theatricality, charisma and drama.

Contemporary and Lyrical Jazz: Emotional expressiveness and a deep connection to musical narrative.

Latin Jazz and Funk: Vibrant and dynamic energy that transmits joy and strength.

Commercial Jazz: Confidence, charisma, and a commanding stage presence.

Dancers must maintain a constant energy that is congruent with the music and choreography, avoiding disconnections during the performance.

For soloists: The performer's ability to fill the stage with their presence and project emotions individually is valued.

For duos, trios, teams, groups and mega groups: It is assessed that all members project a uniform energy, avoiding differences in intensity that affect group cohesion.

Key Elements in Jazz Dance Stage Projection

Constant projection: Energy and attitude must be maintained throughout the routine.

Emotional adaptation: The emotional connection must be aligned with the variation presented and the intention of the choreography.

Interaction with the public: The connection must be direct, generating an emotional impact on the viewers.

Group cohesion: In groups, the emotional connection must be uniform, projecting a collective narrative.

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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