Tips for Salsa & Bachata dancers competing in Competitions
What is your motivation for competing?
Here are some possible reasons. Firstly, it can be an enjoyable experience. The thrill of being in the spotlight and showcasing your salsa skills is incomparable. Moreover, it can be fulfilling. Setting a goal to compete can enhance your dancing abilities as it drives you to focus on your choreography, partnering, and performance skills. Additionally, there is the potential for gaining recognition and credibility. If you aspire to build a salsa career, it is essential to establish a presence in the Salsa & Bachata community, and competing can help you achieve that. Many of the best dancers in the world started by competing, solidifying their positions as both performers and instructors.
Judges, what do they see?
Judges will seek an impressive performance in either an improvised or choreographed showcase dance, rather than a social dance. Focus on executing your combinations and show moves cleanly and simply, avoiding a messy and overly complicated approach. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating strong basics, timing, and fundamentals. It is important to highlight musical interpretation, styling, body movement, and adding "sabor" (flavor). Displaying footwork shines to showcase musical interpretation is encouraged, along with incorporating styling and body movement.
Timing
Timing is the most debated category among judges and poses a significant challenge for competitors. Given that timing carries double the points of other categories, it involves much more than just moving in rhythm. The precision of footwork is crucial, with specific rules like the prohibition of interchanging steps 1 and 5, as well as steps 2 and 6. Some judges even assess the body in two parts, focusing on upper body movements versus lower body movements. It's possible for arms to be on beat while feet are off, especially in fast-paced music where feet move independently of the rest of the body. Coordination is key, as shines must be synchronized with the partner rather than performed solo or out of sync. Judges may deduct points if there are prolonged periods of inactivity or "quiet feet," unless it serves a specific choreographic purpose. While these guidelines aren't set in stone, they offer a general idea of judges' preferences. Deductions may also occur for sloppy footwork or being off the beat. Even if a lead's arms are on time, if their feet are sloppy and out of sync, deductions may be made for timing and possibly technique.
Technique
This encompasses various aspects, all of which are linked to solid fundamentals and basics. A couple must diligently rehearse and master each movement and turning pattern in their routine. Turns should be executed fully, without being under or overdone. Spins need to be executed smoothly. Are the bodies, arms, or legs too rigid or too flexed? In a cross body lead, if one partner leans too much in or out, points may be deducted. Maintaining precise and strong balance in a pose is crucial, without any wobbling. Additionally, considerations such as lines, extensions, and pointed toes come into play. Posture is essential - It should exhibit overall alignment (avoiding rounded backs, protruding stomachs or buttocks, jutting jaws, and raised shoulders). Judges seek extended spinal alignment with elongated necks, relaxed shoulders, and controlled yet relaxed or purposeful arms. Footwork is crucial - It involves keeping the feet tidy (infractions include rolled or sickled ankles, turned-in or sliding feet). Judges expect feet to be placed precisely, without shuffling, and to create aesthetically pleasing lines throughout the body, legs, arms, feet, and hands. Turns should be well-balanced, controlled, and executed at the right moment... and the list continues.
Musicality:
How well does the dance synchronize with the music? Does it accentuate the pauses and flow harmoniously with the musical style? Improving freestyle musicality requires extensive listening and dancing to a variety of music genres in order to sense the pauses and transitions. An effective starting point is to notice when the music changes after four '8 counts', sometimes even after two '8 counts'. While this is a common guideline, it may not always apply.
Musicality is a unique skill that transcends mere timing, allowing your body to become an instrument within the music once it becomes more innate.
Partner-work & Lead & Follow
While timing is important, mastering connection can be the most difficult aspect for a couple. Consider whether the leader is using too much force or being too rough, if the follower is overpowering the lead or backleading, if turns and spins are off-center due to the lead's positioning, and if there have been any mistakes or missed connections, such as losing handgrips. The partners' connection is crucial, as they should demonstrate that they are enjoying their interaction and drawing energy from each other, reflecting the excitement and allure of the dance. To improve in this area, focus on mastering the basics of partner work.
The smoothness of execution is key. Disrupted connections can lead to a decrease in points. Improve your performance in this aspect by concentrating on the fundamentals of partner work.
Difficulty
This element is intriguing. While everyone notices the woman turning and spinning, have you observed if the man also performs single or double turns? Are there any distinctive variations to the typical moves or turning sequences? It is important to consider that a routine that is challenging yet executed with ease and perfection will score high, whereas a simpler routine performed cleanly will rank higher than a difficult routine that a couple struggles to complete.
To enhance your skills in this aspect, focus on mastering the fundamentals of partner work and for more intricate movements, consider enrolling in advanced classes.
Presentation & Stage presence
The couple's utilisation of the stage is crucial. Do they make use of the space or do they remain stationary during their performance? Are they positioned at the center of the stage or do they tend to stick to one side, limiting visibility for the judges? Are they able to captivate the audience through their facial expressions, body language, and music? Do they maintain a smile and show enthusiasm in their routine? Are they genuinely enjoying their performance? Do they possess charisma that draws in the audience or the judges? A polished appearance is essential, with no jeans, sleeveless shirts, or props permitted in competitions. Women are advised to wear skirts or dresses with fishnet stockings. Hair should be styled away from the face to prevent distractions. Opt for attire that complements your natural features while avoiding any potential wardrobe malfunctions.
Costumes
This can add or detract to a performance and many couples ignore this. Do the costumes match? Do the costumes go with the music and the routine? Do the costumes even fit properly? Couples need to practice in their costumes and work out any problems with the costumes before they compete. Sequins breaking loose can trip a couple on the stage, affect balance and technique and cause deductions.
Advice To Competitors
Practice:
Make sure to plan ahead! Executing the routine and ensuring its smooth and effortless flow requires a significant amount of time. Seek feedback from an instructor or a highly skilled dancer to identify and address any issues or challenges. Record a video of the routine for self-assessment and practice while wearing costumes. It is advisable for couples to showcase their routine in front of a group prior to the competition.
Fundamentals are King
Fundamentals are crucial, serving as the foundation for improvement in dancing. Just like a building needs a strong foundation, dancers require solid basics to excel. Spending more time in classes, social dancing, watching performances, taking private lessons, and practicing will enhance your skills and make you feel more confident. Intermediate dancers sometimes overlook the significance of fundamental training in regular dance classes, opting for performance classes instead. However, social dancing complements learning, providing motivation and a platform for self-expression. New performers may underestimate the value of regular classes and the importance of honing their fundamentals, assuming they have already mastered them. In reality, dance teams and performances are on par with regular classes, not inferior to them. To truly excel in a dance style, one must internalise and perfect the fundamentals on an ongoing basis. Experienced teachers and judges understand this well, continuously refining their skills through teaching and dancing at a fundamental level, provided they also continue to learn, which they should to gain maximum success. Seeking feedback from knowledgeable judges and teachers can help dancers improve their basics. Returning to class, focusing on fundamentals, and paying attention to details in the taught moves are essential for rapid growth in dancing.
Expression:
When performing, remember that facial expressions and connecting with the audience play a significant role. It is essential to practice in front of a mirror or on video. Enjoyment is key; if a couple is not having fun, or look stressed, it will be evident. Use natural expressions to convey your emotions. Let your face reflect your inner joy of dancing, as it will be visible in your performance.
Focus on enhancing your presentation skills. Your presentation and showmanship can greatly impact the success of your routine. Keep in mind that you are performing for others. Acting like you feel good about yourself will make others believe it too. Practice in front of a mirror and consider recording your performances to practice in front of a live audience. Don't hesitate to establish eye contact with your partner, the audience, and the judges.
Prep on the day:
Ensure you get enough rest and fuel. Be punctual and warm up before each performance. Keeping warm between dances is crucial to prevent injuries. Remember to bring snacks and drinks. Stay concentrated and use a headset to listen to your music while visualising your performance.
Clean up your Routine & Technique:
It is advisable to allocate sufficient time for practice once you establish a routine. This will allow you to identify and address any issues, as well as make necessary adjustments and enhancements. Conducting complete run-throughs will also enhance your endurance. The key is to execute a challenging routine effortlessly. It is essential to have the choreography memorised to the point where you can perform without conscious effort, particularly if you experience performance anxiety. Additionally, it is important to anticipate how to handle mistakes during a performance. Regular practice will prepare you to quickly recover from errors. Lastly, remember to always point your toes, as having weak foot positioning is unappealing.
Get Feedback:
Seek feedback from seasoned dancers to evaluate all facets of your performance and routine, particularly dance instructors who have a track record of coaching competition winners. Investing in a coach is worthwhile if you are truly dedicated. Despite the discomfort of criticism, it is crucial to find a trustworthy trainer who provides constructive & truthful feedback. Many independent dancers overlook this aspect, which is a major pitfall.
Timing, timing, timing:
Once again, focus on improving your timing. While it might not appear significant to the casual observer, timing holds the highest importance for judges in many competitions. Whether you follow the "1" or the "2," ensure you maintain the beat consistently during your performance. It's common to hear spectators question why a particular couple failed to qualify despite being crowd favorites, often due to their inadequate timing. If you lack training or are uncertain about your timing, seek guidance from a professional dance instructor.
Warmup & Stretch
The significance of this is often overlooked, but it is beneficial for both training and competition days. Ensure to warm up properly; if you are not slightly sweaty, then you are not adequately warmed up. However, be cautious not to overdo it.
Stretching is important, but be mindful not to push yourself too far.
Exercise sessions should always start with a warm-up period.
This is because: Core body temperature increases by a few degrees This leads to: 1 Increased oxygen supply to muscles. 2 Reduced muscle tension 3 Preparation of the heart, lungs, and other organs for physical activity In other words, it gets your blood flowing.In essence, anything that raises body temperature can be beneficial for a warm-up period.
Your dance partner:
If your routine is a couple routine, both of you should share similar motivation and ensure open communication about your shared goals. Discrepancies in skill level or experience are acceptable, but they should not be overly noticeable. Differences in style, such as one person being more flashy than the other, are also fine as long as there is a strong connection between you.
Written by
Reuben (NZ/Aust Judge)
Salsa Latina
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