Skill Levels

If ALL of our judges feel a routine is not entered into the correct category, that routine will be pulled out of its existing category and adjudicated only.

Novice: This category is for a recreational, introductory level dancer, learning rhythm, coordination and memorization. ie: Dancer has never competed before.

Beginning: This category is for a dancer learning beginning dance moves and attempting dance skills. This category includes but is not limited to: single pirouette, chaine, grand jete or pas de chats, toe touch and variety of kicks. NONE of the following are allowed: Double Pirouette, Left Pirouette, Firebirds, Fouettés, A la Seconde, Leg Hold Turns, Changing spots in different directions, Switch Leap, Back Leap.

Intermediate I:  This category is for a dancer that has polished basic dance moves, learning challenging dance movements/skills executed with fair-good technique, flexibility and working on the fundamentals of audience appeal and showmanship. This category includes but is not limited to: double pirouette, coupe turns, side leaps, grand jete, 2-3 consecutive a la seconde turns and a variety of leaps. NONE of the following are allowed: Triple pirouettes, Fouettés, Switch tilts, no more than 3 consecutive rotations in any turn combo.

Intermediate II: This category is for dancers that exhibit efficiency in more advanced dance skills. These dancers are proficient in their display of showmanship and are comfortable on the stage. This category includes but is not limited to: triple pirouette, fouettés, a la secondes, switch leaps, switch tilt and turning leg grab. NONE of the following are allowed: No more than 5 consecutive rotations of any turn combo. 

Advanced: This category is for dancers who have  polished challenging dance movements/skills executed with great technique, flexibility and artistic expression. This category includes but is not limited to: turns with changing spot, fouettés, triple + turns, switch leaps (tilt, firebird, arabesque), or advanced jumps.

*We welcome tumbling and acrobatic skills as a complimentary element of any routine. However, if the focus of the routine is on tumbling and acro movements, the routine should be entered in the “Acro” Category.

* Gymnastics and Acro Movements are not restricted by any part of the Skill level Regulations.

* Remember! Teachers and directors are the best resource for routine placement. Reach out to them with any questions or clarification needs.