Ballroom dancing is a competitive sport and a fun activity to partake in. Ballroom dance competitions take awhile to train for but, in the end, you get to show off your skills and abilities while competing against your peers. Staying on key with your steps is very important, as even one error could cost you severe penalty points toward your final score.
Level of Competition
Not everyone has mastered the same skills of ballroom dancing, so the competition is divided into different levels of experience, including beginner, intermediate, advanced, master and novice. In the same manner, dance style categories are broken down as well, and include American Rhythm, American Smooth, International Latin and International Standard. According to the Columbia Ballroom Organization, not system is in place that ensures the competitors will enter the competition at their appropriate level. Dancers are in charge of determining what level they need to enter the compeition.
Dress Code
In a ballroom dance competition, you must adhere to certain dress codes. The men must have neat hair, held in place with gel. If your hair is long, it must be pulled back and held with a rubber band. Although facial hair is not forbidden, it is strongly discouraged. Wearing a white or black long sleeve shirt, tie and black dress pants is required, a tuxedo is a better option. If you wish to coordinate with your partner, you can wear a tie of a matching color to her outfit.
The women's hair must be pulled up in a classy up-do with loose hairs held tightly back with hairspray, mousse or gel. Their makeup should be applied heavier than usual, especially on the eye and lip area. The women's costume must be a formal dress that is easy to move in. Most women wear dresses that are to their knees or calf, which allows the judges to see your foot steps.
Point System
Couples are awarded points for each dance they compete in. Advancing to the finals will earn you higher points. Once a person, or couple, has earned seven points in a certain level, he is no longer allowed to compete in that level. First-place winners receive three points for their current level and six points for the level below them. Second-place winners receive two points for their current level and four points for the level below them. Third-place winners receive one point for their current level and two points for the level below them.
Competition Time
Upon registration, you and your partner are given a number, which must remain pinned on your back until the competition is over. You are not referred to by your name unless you advance to the final round, that is why keeping the number attached to your back is of extreme importance.
When the competition has been divided into rank and dance style, the event begins with the groups coming out with the other competitors in their rank, and dancing for around 90 seconds. The judges announce which couples will move on to the next round. This same process repeats a couple more times until the final round, where the judges will announce the winner by name.
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