III: Special Couple Dance Disciplines

The rules outlined below cover the following Special Couple Dance Disciplines:

Note: In Double Bugg competitions, one male partnered with two females forms a trio. As defined by IDO rules, a one male / one female Couple must enter all other events.

General Provisions III

Each discipline has some rules specific to that particular discipline. Such information is provided under the specific heading for the discipline in question. In general, the following rules apply to ALL Special Couple Dance Disciplines. Any exceptions are noted in each rule. When an exception is noted, please refer to the specific rules governing the discipline mentioned.

Competitors in most, but not all, Disciplines dance to the Organizer's music.

EXCEPTIONS: IDO Compulsory Music is used in Swing Dance and Mixing Blues events. In final rounds of all categories, either Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice may be used.

No dancer / couple shall compete against him or herself.

In all IDO disciplines, a Couple is defined as one male and one female partner.

Stage Props: Not permitted in ANY Special Couple Dance Discipline

Time duration (length) of Exhibition / Routine / Performance: Refer to the specific discipline.

Liquids or other substances that can litter, damage, or make the dance floor / stage unsafe may not be used in any discipline.

Costumes are of one's own choice, but should be well-fitted and tasteful.

Lifts: Permitted in some, but not all, disciplines. Please refer to specific rules for the Discipline in question. Lifts are defined as: Movements / figures in which both feet of one dancer are off the floor and such figures / movements are performed with the help / physical support of another person. Lifts are NOT permitted in Children's divisions unless stated otherwise in the specific rules governing a specific discipline.

Drops: Permitted in some, but not all, disciplines. Drops are defined as: A movement in which the Lady ‘drops' down into a pose that must be supported by her partner in some manner. This can be with his hands and arms, or the Lady can use her hands and arms on the Man's waist, leg, etc., to support her own weight.

Acrobatic Movements: Permitted in some, but not all, disciplines. Please refer to specific rules for the Discipline in question. If permitted, Acrobatic Movements will not always enhance the dancer's score, and could even detract from the score if they are not performed in a technically correct manner. Acrobatics are those movements , in which body overturns round sagittal or frontal axis, such as somersaults, hand wheeling and similar figures

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A: Argentine Tango (Tango, Milonga, Tango Vals and Tango Fantasia)

1. Music: Organizer's music in all rounds EXCEPT the final round of Tango Fantasia, where dancers may use their own choice of music.

2. Length of Exhibition: Two (2) minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase, in all rounds EXCEPT the final round of Tango Fantasia. Music chosen for Tango Fantasia final round performances must not exceed three (3) minutes.

3. Tempo: Tango 30 - 32 bars per minute (120 - 128 beats per minute). Milonga (27-32) Tango Vals (48-55)

4. Characteristics and Movement: Argentine Tango is a social dance that falls into a smooth category of dance. It follows the line of dance (LOD), going around the dance floor in a counter-clockwise direction. This dance form expresses love and passion, which is evident by the closeness of the dancers, the man's control and the woman's seductiveness. The dancers execute the figures mainly from the waist down while trying to achieve an interesting interplay between them. This interplay between the partners is dictated by the music, and the dancers should be dancing to something IN the music. One should be able to see the melody expressed through their movement. The epitome of Argentine Tango is to see the couple dancing with good posture, good extension through the legs, their feet almost always caressing the floor, and pausing with the music with a sense of rhythm that is clear to those watching.

5. Typical Movements: Walks, turns, ochos to front and back, sandwiches, twists and curls, leg-wraps, drags and saccades to front and back, Boleos that leave the floor and other decorations that allow the legs to swing. Molinetes, paradas, barridas, and pauses with the music are also typical of this dance. Brushing and follow-through technique is essential in all movements. Knees must stay connected when executing boleos and ganchos, although certain saccades do allow the legs to swing open without the knees being closed.

6. Preliminary Rounds: Dancers should avoid using obvious choreography, only improvisation, which is the true heart of the Tango. Couples will be qualified to the quarter-final by dancing three (3) different kinds of tango: The Tango, the Milonga and the Tango Vals. The CROSS MARKING System will be used to determine which couples qualify for the quarter-final round. No lifts, separations or jumps are allowed. Only normal dance hold is allowed. A 1-minute presentation dance will take place in each dance before the couples are divided into separate heats where not more than six (6) couples will dance together in each heat. All couples must dance the first dance before the next dance will be performed.

7. Quarterfinal Rounds: As for #6 above, couples will be qualified to the semi-final by dancing three (3) different kinds of tango: The Tango, the Milonga and the Tango Vals. The CROSS MARKING System will be used to determine which couples qualify for the semi-final round.

8. Semi-final Round: As for #7 above, but Tango will be dropped and Tango Fantasia will be added. Only normal dance hold is allowed in Milonga and Tango Vals.

9. Lifts, separations and jumps: Permitted in Tango Fantasia only, and no acrobatic figures / movements are allowed where the feet or the main part of the body is above the partner's shoulders.

10. Final Round: Couples will dance Milonga, Tango Vals and Tango Fantasia. All couples will dance together in Milonga and Tango Vals, and may only use normal dance hold in these two dances. In the Tango Fantasia, each couple will perform alone. Tango Fantasia in the final round of a competition must consist of mainly Argentine tango. Some bars of Milonga or Tangowaltz are permitted. Reason: As in the semi final and the final the tango is not judged anymore and the tango Fantasia is taking his place, couples could get placed without having to dance Argentine tango anymore. The Skating System will be used to determine the order of merit over all three (3) dances.

Rules for "Rising Star" Argentine Tango championships.

1. The same rules will apply as in the above standing rules for Argentine Tango Three Dance Championships.
2. Only the Argentine tango will be danced (one dance championship).
3. It is only allowed to dance in "Abrazzo" all the time. Only "Open and closed hold" are allowed. Couples must stay all the time in dance hold. No jumps , lifts or acrobatics are allowed.

Couples eligible to dance in the "Rising Star" championship.

1. Only couples that did not dance before in the Three Dance Argentine Tango championships are allowed to participate.
2. The winner of the "Rising Star" championship has to dance the next season in the Three Dance championship.
3. If there are more then.8 participants in the Rising Star championship, first three have to dance the next season in the Three Dance championship.

A1: Nordic Tango

1. Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final.
2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1-½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 ½ minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2-¾ minutes
3. Tempo: 28-31 bars per minute (112 - 124 beats per minute)
4. Characteristics and Movement: Nordic Tango is a social dance in which steps, movements and style are based on what is possible to dance at a social event where the lady is simply following the man's lead. The dance should express love and passion evident through the closeness of the dancers, the man's control and the woman's seductiveness. There is a great deal of melancholy in this type of Tango music, and this should be reflected in the dancers' portrayal of the mood of the dance. The dancers should achieve an interesting interplay between them, something that is dictated by the music, and they should be dancing to something in the music. Movements should not be run together - a slow is a slow and a quick is a quick, and one should see the melody expressed through the dancers' movements. Running through in Promenade and Counter Promenade Position, or continuous spinning for longer than 10 seconds at a time, is not allowed.
5. Hold: Man holding lady's right hand in his left hand should be kept at all times. Releasing all hold, or releasing hold with man's left hand is not allowed. The bodies can be separated as long as the normal hold is maintained. Poise should be upright and natural with the lady slightly to man's right side, but this position should more closely resemble the hold used in Argentine Tango than the International Tango hold.
6. Typical Movements: Walks, turns, twists and curls, leg-wraps, drags and outside swivels, promenades and counter promenades, rocks and spins. Drops are allowed as long as the hold stays intact. Oversways, checks and lunges are typical for this type of Tango.
7. Lifts: Not allowed as defined under General Provisions III.
8. Costume changes: Not permitted during the performance. Costumes should be in accordance with and reflect the accepted and typical styles used in Tango.
9. Preliminary and Semi-final Rounds: Up to six (6) couples in each heat.
10. First Rounds: All couples dance an opening minute together as a presentation dance, which must sometimes be taken in more than one heat according to the size of the floor. All couples will dance a final minute together at the conclusion of the first round.
11. Final Round: All couples first dance together to the Organizer's music for one minute, then each couple performs solo and may, if they desire, use their own music. After all solo performances have been completed, all couples will dance a final minute together to the Organizer's music.

B: Mambo (American)

1. Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final.

2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1 ½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2minutes 15 seconds

3. Tempo: 45 - 47 bars per minute (180 - 188 beats per minute). Dancers must break on the 2^nd beat of the bar.

4. Characteristics and Movement: Mambo originated as a street dance, and is a dance in which the man and woman challenge each other for control / strength / dominance. The woman is very strong and can be just as dominating as the man. The man is trying to remain in control and impress the woman with his physical ability and speed. Steps and movements come out of the original Latin American dance styles. It is very important that the movements, step combinations and ‘poses' be in perfect harmony with the rhythm and character of music throughout the dance. Interesting rhythms, twisty turns and wraps are characteristic of the dance.

5. Lifts: Not permitted.

6. In preliminary and in the semi-final rounds, two or three couples will dance at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, each couple performs alone.

7. In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final 1 minute together.

B2: Street Mambo

1. Organizer's music in preliminary and semi-final rounds, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final
2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1-½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2minutes 15 seconds.
3. Tempo: 50 - 52 bars per minute (200 - 208 beats per minute).
4. Characteristics and Movement: Unlike the American Mambo used for Dance Sport competitions in America and Europe, Street Mambo is virtually the same dance as Salsa. The style is referred to as the Puerto Rico / New York style of Salsa. The basic is a three-step pattern taken during four beats of music in a quick, quick, slow rhythm, but the basic pattern, is commenced by breaking on the second beat of the bar. There are two ways to do this. "Break on two" or "Dance on two". The "dance on two" is also used in the American Mambo and in the International Rumba where the hesitation is made between 4-1. The "break on two" is where the man will break forward starting with the RF counting 1, step fwd with the LF count 2, and are hesitating between 3-4, as in Salsa but starting with the RF, stepping forward with the LF on 2. Street Mambo is a very popular club dance in that it allows a great deal of freedom for the dancers' interpretation of the music using movements and elements from many different Latin dances. Street Mambo choreography is more open with more side-by-side 'shine' maneuvers and other open figures, and the basics are danced more on a line than is the practice in Salsa. In the open 'shines', practically all types of rhythm breaks are allowed.
5. In preliminary and semi-final rounds, 6 couples will dance at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, each couple will perform solo.
6. Lifts: Low lifts are permitted.
7. At least 50% of the performance should be danced with a hold.
8. In every round, including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final minute together.

C: Salsa

1. Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final

2. .Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1 ½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2 minutes 15 seconds.

3. Tempo: 48 - 52 bars per minute (196 - 208 beats per minute).

4. Characteristics and Movement: Salsa is of Latin-American origin but has been developing in different ways the last 10 years. There are three main styles of Salsa. The Salsa Cuban style, the Salsa Puerto Rico/New York style (Street Mambo) and the L-A style. The Cuban style of Salsa is more rotating than the Puerto Rico/New York style (Street Mambo) and the L-A style is known to include more show figures. All three styles are accepted. Salsa basic is a two times three-step pattern taken during 8 beats of music, in a quick, quick, slow - quick, quick, slow rhythm. It is allowed to break on the 1^st and 3^rd beat in the bar or the 2^nd and 4^th beat in the bar. What is important is to keep the consistence of the breaking. If one starts on breaking on 1 or 3 one must continue to break on 1 or 3 and not travel on to break on 2 and 4 suddenly. Salsa is a very popular club dance in that it allows the dancers much freedom to interpret the music using movements and elements from many different Latino dances. Salsa means, "Sauce", and the dancers should depict a very hot and spicy interaction with each other. The Salsa basics involve clever hand and arm movements as well as changes of handhold while maintaining the flowing movements and which are all typical of the dance.

5. In preliminary and in the semi-final rounds, six (6) couples will dance at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, each couple performs alone.

6. Lifts: Low lifts are permitted. However, in the final round, when couples perform alone, it is proposed to allow an acrobatic figure, such as a Cartwheel, to be danced, just once (AGM 2007)

7. The main part of the performance should be danced with a hold.

8. In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final minute together.

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D: Merengue

1. Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final.

2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2minutes 15 seconds.

3. Tempo: 29 - 32 beats per minute in 4/4 time signature / 56 - 68 bars per minute in 2/4 time signature.

4. Characteristics and Movement: Merengue is a Latin-American Spot Dance, and does not move along the Line of Dance (LOD). Steps are quite compact, and Latin hip movement, at times quite staccato, is used throughout. A slight counter sway is often used to compliment the Latin hip movement. The basic action is similar to a marching rhythm, but many other rhythms, including syncopations, slows, etc., may be used in interpreting the music. Merengue is a club dance, and the couples should focus on one another to create an earthy and sensual feeling through the use of close, intricate rotational movements coupled with an almost playful teasing interaction with one another.

5. In preliminary and in the semi-final rounds, two or three couples will dance at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, each couple performs alone.

6. In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final minute together.

E: Bachata

1.Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final.

2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2minutes 15 seconds.

3.Tempo: 28 - 32 bars per minute in 4/4 time signature (112-128 beats per minute)

4.Characteristics and Movement: Bachata is of Caribbean origin, and does not move along the Line of Dance (LOD). The basic action is a flowing rather slow, romantic and passionate movement. Steps are composed by a 3-step moving pattern and a lifting/tilting hip moment with no weight transference on 4. The 4th beat is a hip action(lift, drop), counted "and 4", and NOT a weight transference of "in place, in place" - rather like a Cha Cha action/timimg, which should only be used as a Variation, and not the basic A slight counter sway is often used to compliment the Latin hip movement. There are also many other rhythms, including syncopations, slows and quicks etc., may be used in interpreting the music. Bachata is a club dance, and the couples should focus on one another to create an earthy and sensual feeling through the use of close, intricate rotational movements coupled with an almost playful teasing interaction with one another.

5.In preliminary and in the semi-final rounds, up to 6 couples will dance at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, each couple performs alone.

6.In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final minute together.

7.In the final round, when the couples perform alone, it is proposed to allow a turning or spinning low level lift to be performed, just once

F: Caribbean Dances

Overview

Caribbean Dance is a multi-dance discipline where each of the three (3) dances contributes an equal value to the overall placements of the dancers. Each dance is first evaluated on its own merits, and the places for each couple will be determined by using the Skating System. All couples in the final must dance a medley consisting of at least two (2) of the three (3) dances in the discipline. All three (3) dances maybe be used, but no other dances are permitted in these medleys. The Caribbean Show Medley will be judged as one more dance on its own merits. In the event of a tie between couples, the placing in the Caribbean Show Medley will have the higher value.

Caribbean Dances and Tempi

• Salsa 45 - 47 bpm (180 - 188 beats per minute)
• Merengue 29 - 32 bpm (116 - 128 beats per minute)
• Bachata 28 - 32 bpm (112-128 beats per minute)

1. Music: Provided by Organizer for all but the Caribbean Show Medley in the final round, for which couples will supply their own music.

2. Length of Exhibition: Ninety seconds (1-½ minutes) in all rounds except for the Caribbean Show Medley in the final round, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2 minutes 15 seconds.

3. Characteristics and Movement: As described previously for each of these three dances. It is very important that the movements and step combinations are in perfect harmony with the rhythm and character of the music throughout each dance.

4. Costumes: Clothing should follow the developments of new trends in Caribbean Dance style, but should always be in good taste.

5. Lifts: Low lifts are permitted in Salsa and in the final Caribbean Show Medley, but not in the other two dances. Lifts must follow the guidelines listed under General Provisions III.

6. First Round: In the first dance only, all couples will dance an opening and final minute together. The opening minute provides the judges with an opportunity to discern the overall dance quality of the couples before judging each individual heat. The final minute is used to insure that marks have been awarded to all couples properly.

7. Preliminary & Semi-final Rounds: Up to six (6) couples will dance at the same time in each heat. All couples must perform each dance before the next dance is commenced. Results for each round will be announced before commencing the next round.

8. Final Round: All couples dance at the same time in each dance prior to each couple performing the Caribbean Show Medley as a solo. The placing in the final will be found by using the Skating system over 4 dances. Salsa, Merengue, Bachata and Caribbean Show.

9. Stage Props: Permitted only in the Caribbean Show Medley, and only as outlined under General Provisions III.

G: Jitterbug-SHOW

1. Music: Organizer's music in all rounds EXCEPT the final round of Jitterbug Solo Show, where dancers may use their own choice of music.

2. Length of Exhibition: 1,30 minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase, in all rounds EXCEPT the final round of Jitterbugg Solo Show. Music chosen for Jitterbug Solo Show final round performances must not exceed 2.15.

3. Tempo: 30 - 36 bars per minute in the Slow Jitterbug. Organizers music

4. Tempo: 48 - 52 bars per minute in the Fast Jitterbug. Organizers music

5. Tempo: Free in the Jitterbug Solo Show. Own music or organizers music.

6. Characteristics and Movement: Jitterbug is a social dance that falls into the Swing dance family. It has a long tradition and is originated in America. There is a well documented literature how to perform the dance. Acrobatics, lifts, separations and jumps are allowed and encouraged but should if possible be connected to the musical phrase.

7. Typical Movements: Swing Outs, Mixing 6 and 8 counts, Kick variations, Jig walks, Charleston steps,

8. Preliminary Rounds: Dancers should avoid using obvious choreography but rather improvisation, which is the true heart of the Jitterbug so that it is possible to adjust the steps to the music. Couples will be qualified to the next round by dancing the Fast Jitterbug only. 1-minute presentation dance will take place before the couples are divided into separate heats where not more than six (6) couples will dance together in each heat.

9. Quarterfinal Rounds: As for #8 above, plus: Couples will be qualified to the semi-final by dancing also the Slow Jitterbug The Cross - System in both dances combined, will be used to determine which couples qualify for the semi-final round.

10. Semi-final Round: As for #9 above,

11. Final Round: Couples will dance three dances in the final. Slow Jitterbugg all together for 1.30. In the Jitterbug Solo Show each couple will perform alone 2 minutes to 2.15. All couples will than dance the Fast Jitterbug together for 1.30. All three dances are judged separately and the Skating System will be used to determine the order of merit over all three (3) dances.

H: Bugg

1. Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final.

2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds the length of performance should be 1½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music.

3. Tempo: 42 - 44 bars per minute (168 - 176 beats per minute).

4. In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening and final minute together, but not more than 12 couples will dance at the same time. This gives the judges a chance to compare the couples while observing how they lead / follow in an improvised dance, avoiding collisions with each other and using the whole floor space in an effective way.

5. Characteristics and Movement: The music may be any type of swing music written in 4/4 timing with a boogie beat in the rhythm. Bugg is a non-choreographed dance. All figures must be guided. Side by side figures are not allowed. The dance should be performed with a smooth flow. (See Patterns listed below.)

6. Acrobatic Movements: Not permitted in any form.

1. Shoes must be worn at all times. Clothing is of the competitors' choice but must always be in good taste.

Patterns

Basic Movement

Man: The man's steps are free but should harmonize with the lady's steps, the figure and the music. When the man is using the basic walking action, weight changes with the LF should be on beats ‘1' and ‘3'; weight changes with the RF would be on beats ‘2' and ‘4'. A variation of the man's footwork is preferred.

Lady: As for Man, with RF weight changes on ‘1' and ‘3', LF weight changes on ‘2' and ‘4', but she may hesitate on either foot. Lady may walk forward, backward or make ½ turn on each step. She may turn more or less than ½ turn on each step, but may not make a full spin on any one weight change / foot. For instance, she may make three (3) turns or more in the time normally used for two (2) rotations as long as she does not make a full turn on any one (1) weight change / foot.

Lady's Alternative Basic Movement: The lady may use ‘double tempo' weight changes in which she dances four steps on any two (2) beats of the bar, counted 1&2&.

Rhythm Breaks: The following Timing Variations / Hesitations are allowed.

1. Kick, ball-change
2. Ronde, ball-change
3. Hesitation, close, forward

Performing the Dance

Man's Part: The man is leading the lady around the room in a counter-clockwise direction, using different types of hold, circling around her to the right or left. He can also turn on the spot to the right or left with the lady circling around the man. To make the performance more interesting, he can use different types of rhythm breaks. The Bugg is a dance that is performed and invented the moment it is danced. The arms are an expressive part of the dance, and should follow the movements in a natural way. The man leads all movements by increasing or decreasing the amount of tone in his arms, coupled with weight changes and raising / lowering the joined hands.

Lady's Part: The lady normally makes one weight change on each beat of the bar, following the man's lead. She can use rhythm breaks and the double tempo turns. Since this is a ‘free style' dance, the lady must be very sensitive to all the man's actions so she can react quickly to his leads. She must increase / decrease the amount of tone in her arms to respond correctly to the man's lead, but must never allow the arms to be completely without tone.

H1: Double Bugg

(A trio where 1 Man dances with 2 Ladies)

1. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds the length of performance should be 1-½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase.
2. Music and Tempo: In the final round, the trio may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music. The tempo must be between 42 - 44 bars per minute. (If dancing to own music, the tempo is free.)
3. Characteristics and Movement: The Double Bugg is a formation dance for three people, which is known as a trio. It is performed with one man and two ladies. The man leads the ladies in different figures that could be improvised or choreographed. The basic step is used from any type of Bugg, Jive, Jitterbug, Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop or Rock ‘N' Roll. Show figures are allowed, but must not control / dominate the performance.
4. Acrobatic Movements: Permitted, but can only be used in the solo performances.
5. In the preliminary and semi final rounds, up to eight (8) trios are dancing at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, there should not be more than six (6) trios.
6. All trios shall first perform one by one to music of their own choice, no less than 1 minute & 15 seconds, and not more than 1½ minutes. In the second part all trios dance at the same time for 1-½ minutes to the Organizer's music. All trios are placed in order of merit in the final round.
7. In every round including the final, all trios will dance an opening minute and final minute together
8. All Patterns and other rules are as outlined under F: Bugg.

I: Disco-Hustle / Disco-Swing / Disco-Fox (Revised June, 2006)

1. Both a Slow and a Fast Round is required. Technique and improvisation are highly important in the Slow Round, and overall agility and partnership dynamics are highly evaluated in the Fast Round.

2. Definition: Disco Fox could be known and named as Disco Hustle, Swing Fox, Disco Swing, Rock Fox in different regions.

3. Accepted characteristics and movements: The characteristic of the dance is basically stationary, although the couple can move with walks and turns across the floor. Most of the time it is danced in double or one handhold in every variation like cross handhold, right in right hand and others. Wrap figures, spin turns, pivot turns, throw outs, let go and catch again actions are the main characteristics of the dance. Natural hip movements are accepted. Posing as over sways, leans, checks, drops and points are allowed.

4. Basic steps and rhythms: Disco Fox is danced in open or closed facing position with different handholds. It consists of basic steps and basic step variation which are in the rhythm 1 2 X. X can be 3, &3, a3, 3&, 3a. Examples are 1 2 & 3, 1 2 3&, 1 2 a3. Any combination of those counts, like 1& 2& 3 are allowed as variations of the basic step.

5. Poses, Drops: Poses and drops are allowed.

6. Acrobatic figures and lines are limited to two (2) per performance, combined as follows:

- One acrobatic figure and one line or

- Two acrobatic figures or

- Two lines.

Acrobatic figures and lines during the intro of the "fast" part of the Final are free.

An acrobatic figure is when:

1. • A dancer is lifting the partner above the dance floor, so he or she has no contact to the floor (lift)
   • A dancer is swinging the partner, e.g. floor spin

An acrobatic figure is not allowed if:

• Both feet of one partner are higher than his/her own head.
• One partner is thrown. (Like in figure skating or in Rock-n-Roll).
• One partner is turning on more than one axis during one move

Definition of a line figure: A line is more than one dance move without having contact to the partner.

7. Competition Mode:

In every round except the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final 1-½ minutes together.

Preliminary Rounds

Organizer's music is used in preliminaries and semi-final.

In the Preliminary and Semi final Rounds up to six (6) couples dance at the same time depending on the size of dance floor.

Up to six (6) couples will dance a Fast Dance with a length of 90 seconds. The intro part of the music should be not longer than 20 seconds. The music should end in a slow fade out after a short louder part.

Hope Round:

If the timetable allows, the organizer may run a "Hope round" in order that all couples may dance twice.

Semi-final:

In the semi final the Slow round is added

After an opening overview round of 60 seconds fast music for all couples in the semi final, 50 % of the couples dance a Slow Dance with a length of 90 seconds and than the remaining couples dances their Slow dance. The first heat dances than a Fast Dance with a length of 90 seconds and than the second heat will dance their fast dance. The intro part of the music should not be longer than 20 seconds. At the end there is a closing overview round of 90 seconds fast dance for all semi final couples.

The Slow and the Fast round will be evaluated as different dances by the adjudicators. This means that a judge may give one couple one cross in the "Slow dance" but no cross in the "Fast dance". In this way the maximum amount of crosses for one couple to qualify for the final will be 14 crosses from 7 judges.

Final Round

In general 6 couples are qualified for the Final Round. Depending on the marks there may be no less than 5 and no more than 8 couples in the Final round.

Slow Performance:

The Music for the Slow Performance is of the organizers choice. All couples will dance together for 90 seconds. The adjudicators will evaluate the Slow dance performance, as a separate dance.

Show Performance:

Each couple is dancing a Show Performance to music of their own choice with a length of not longer than 2 minutes 15 seconds including intro. The start order of the couples will be arranged by a lottery. The adjudicators will evaluate the Show dance performance, as a separate dance.

Fast Performance:

The music for the Fast Performance is of the organizers choice. All couple will dance together for 90 seconds. The adjudicators will evaluate the Fast Performance as a separate dance. The adjudicators will evaluate the Fast dance performance, as a separate dance. The adjudicators will place each couple in the order of merit for first the Slow dance Performance and will than place each couple in the order of merit for the Show dance performance and finally giving the placing in the Fast dance Performance. The over-all placing of the couples will be decided by the Skating system over the three dances.

8. Music

Type of music: Dance music in Disco style in 4/4 or 2/4 timing.

Choice of music: In the Show Dance of the final round, the couple may use music of their choice. In that case the couple provides a high quality recording on CD. If a couple has no own music the organizer will provide a choice of at least three (3) pieces.

Length and speed of music:

J: Mixing Blues

Created by IDO founder, Mr. Moreno Polidori

1. Organizer's music during first through semi-final rounds Music of the dancers' choice in the final.

2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1 ½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, and exhibitions must be between 2 to 2-¼ minutes (120 - 135 seconds) to conform to the end of the musical phrase.

a. During the selection, the dancers will dance two (2) quick parts and one *1) slow part as follows: Quick, Slow, Quick, and the length of the music will be 85 - 100 seconds to conform to the musical phrase.

b. During the semi-final, dancers will dance two (2) slow parts and one (1) quick part as follows: Slow, Quick, Slow, and the length of the music will be 85 - 100 seconds to conform to the musical phrase.

c. During the final, dancers will dance two (2) slow parts and two (2) quick parts as follows: Slow, Quick, Slow, Quick

3. Tempo: 28 - 32 bpm (112 - 128 beats per minute) for the slow section and 48 - 52 bpm (192 - 208 beats per minute) for the quick section.

4. Characteristics and Movement: Because of the music, the slow and fast sections follow each other. The Blues steps and various kinds of movements characterize the choreography of slow sections. The fast sections can be mixed with the steps and movements of other dances such as Boogie-Woogie, Be Bop, Lindy Hop, Bugg, Jitterbug, West and East Coast Swing, etc. The interpretation in the slow part shall be decisive. During the selections and semi-final, the length of exhibition will be 1-½ minutes (90 seconds) to conform to the end of the musical phrase, divided into Slow - Quick - Slow.

5. Acrobatic Movements: Acrobatic figures and movements in which the head is higher than the hips and the hips are below the partner's head are permitted.

6. In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final 1-½ minutes together.

K: Special Couple Dance Formations

1. Number of Dancers: 8 - 24.

2. Music: Of Formation's choice.

3. Length of Exhibition: 150 - 300 seconds (2.5 to 5 minutes).

4. Tempo: No restrictions.

5. Characteristics: This type of exhibition / competitive event should consist of choreography suitable for presentation at balls and other social dance events. This discipline includes all forms of social dances (newer, older and national), and historical dances. Choreography where the musical assembly doesn't need to come out of a typical social dance, but where the social dance technique is used. The work with space, choreography, total image, work with music, performed movements and patterns will all be evaluated as a whole.

6. Permitted and recommended figures and movements: Not defined.

7. Forbidden Figures: Not defined.

8. Stage Props: Allowed as outlined under General Provisions III.

L: Salsa Rueda de Casino Teams and formations

1. Number of Dancers: 4 - 24.

2. Music: Of the group's choice.

3. Length of Exhibition: 150 - 180 seconds (2-½ to 3 minutes).

4. Tempo: No restrictions, but the character of the music must be in the typical Salsa rhythm marked by the "claves".

5. Basic Structure: Each group consists of 2 - 12 couples that dance together in one or more circles. Other types of formation work may be used, such as lines, stationary dancing and dividing the Rueda circle into smaller groups, but must not dominate the performance.

6. Characteristics: Musicality (rhythm / breaks, etc.), dance variety and originality, performance of stage and individual choreography, use of space, etc. will all be highly evaluated. It is very important to present harmony of music, dance and costume, which should all work together to emphasize the special Salsa Rueda de Casino character.

7. Lifts: Permitted as outlined under General Provisions III.

8. Acrobatic Movements: Permitted as outlined under General Provisions III, but movements where body turns / pivots on its horizontal axis are not allowed. Splits, kicks and other flashy tricks are permitted, but must not dominate.

9. Stage Props: Permitted as outlined under General Provisions III.

10. Groups will be judged as a whole. Solo parts may be performed, but must not dominate.

L1: Salsa Rueda de Casino Teams

Teams

1. Number of Dancers: 4 - 12 for groups or formations.

2. Music: Of the Team's choice.

3. Length of Exhibition: 150 - 180 seconds (2-½ to 3 minutes).

4. Tempo: No restrictions, but the character of the music must be in the typical Salsa rhythm marked by the claves.

5. Basic Structure: Each Team consists of 2 - 6 couples that dance together in one or more circles. Other types of formation work may be used, such as lines, stationary dancing and dividing the Rueda circle into smaller groups, but must not dominate the performance.

6. Characteristics: Musicality (rhythm / breaks, etc.), dance variety and originality, performance of stage and individual choreography, use of space, etc., will all be highly evaluated. It is very important to present harmony of music, dance and costume, which should all work together to emphasize the special Salsa Rueda de Casino character. Typically, Rueda dancers change partners; incorporating this aspect of the dance into the Team's work is very important.

7. Lifts: Permitted.

8. Acrobatic Movements: Permitted, but movements where the body turns / pivots on its horizontal axis are not allowed. Splits, kicks and other flashy tricks are permitted, but must not dominate.

9. Stage Props: Permitted as outlined under General Provisions III.

10. Teams will be judged as a whole. Solo parts may be performed, but must no dominate.

L2: Salsa Rueda de Casino formations

1. Number of Dancers: 13 - 24

2. Length of Exhibition: 210 - 240 seconds (3-½ to 4 minutes)

3. All other rules as for Rueda de Casino Teams, but there are 6 - 12 couples forming the circles.

M: Street Latino

Overview

Street Latino is a multi-dance discipline where each of the five (5) dances contributes an equal value of 20% to the overall placements of the dancers. Each dance is first evaluated on its own merits, and the places for the couples will be determined by using the Skating System. All couples in the final will also dance a medley consisting of at least two (2) of the five (5) dances in the discipline. All five (5) dances may be used, but no other dances are permitted in these medleys. The Street Latino Show Medley will be judged as one more dance on its own merits. In the event of a tie between couples, the placing in the Street Latino Show Medley will have the higher value.

Street Latino Discipline Dances and Tempi

• Salsa all styles 48 - 52 BPM (192 - 208 beats per minute)
• Bachata 28 - 32 BPM (112 - 128 beats per minute)
• Merengue (60 - 70 BPM 2/4 time) 30 - 35 BPM (112 - 140 beats per minute)
• Mambo all styles 48 - 52 BPM (192 - 208 beats per minute)
• Guapacha (Slow Club Cha-Cha) 27 - 29 BPM (108 - 116 beats per minute)

1. Music: Provided by Organizer for all but the Street Latino Show Medley in the final round, for which couples will supply their own music.

2. Length of Performance: Ninety seconds (1-½ minutes) in all rounds EXCEPT for the Street Latino Show Medley in the final round, which must be between 150 - 180 seconds (2-½ to 3 minutes).

3. Characteristics and Movement: As described for each dance in easily accessible dance literature. It is very important that the movements and step combinations are in perfect harmony with the rhythm and character of the music throughout each dance. Dancers MUST break on the 2^nd beat of the bar in Mambo, Bolero and Guapacha.

4. Costumes: Clothing should follow the developments of new trends in Street Dance and be modern and futuristic in nature and impact, but should be well tailored and tasteful.

5. Lifts: Low lifts are permitted in all dances, but must follow the guidelines listed under General Provisions III. Not more than three (3) lifts may be used in each dance. In the Street Latino Show Medley, a maximum of five (5) lifts may be used.

6. First Round: In the first dance only, all couples will dance an opening and final minute together. The opening minute provides the judges with an opportunity to discern the overall dance quality of the couples before judging each individual heat. The final minute is used to insure that marks have been awarded to all couples properly.

7. Preliminary & Semi-final Rounds: Up to six (6) couples will dance at the same time in each heat. All couples must perform each dance before the next dance is commenced. Results for each round will be announced before commencing the next round.

8. Final Round: All couples dance at the same time in each dance prior to each couple performing the Street Latino Show Medley as a solo.

9. Stage Props: Permitted only in Street Latino Show Medley and only as outlined under General Provisions III.

N: Latino Show Teams

1. Characteristics and Movement: When we refer to the Latino music, in dance styles such as Rumba and Samba, we do NOT expect to see Latin American style dances or moves, but Real Rumba, Real Samba, Carnival Samba, etc., to be used. We are looking for some of the many original dance styles, NOT the 5 International Latin American dances. Latino style performances to any type of Latino music such as Salsa, Bachata, Meringue, Son, or any other type of Latin-inspired music of the competitors' choice. Costumes may be Carnival, African, Futuristic, Street, Caribbean, or any combination of those styles and other styles suitable to the dance or dances being performed. Exhibitions may be in any one form, or a combination of two or more different styles, and may include theatrical movements. The performance or clothing should not be similar to what is used in International Latin American competition dancing.

2. Evaluation: Musicality, variety of dance and patterns, originality, total performance and individual choreography will be evaluated. It is very important to present harmony of idea, music, dance, choreography, costume and props in the presentation, as the entire image will be used in evaluating Latino Show Team performances.

3. Acrobatic Movements: Permitted

4. Lifts: NOT permitted in the Children's category, but permitted in all other categories.

5. Stage Props: Permitted if the dancers can bring it to the stage in one go.

solo male / solo female

1. Length of Exhibition: 1 minute & 45 seconds minimum to 2 minutes & 15 seconds maximum.

2. Number of Dancers: 1

3. All other rules as outlined under Latino Show Teams above.

duos / couples

1. Length of Exhibition: 1 minutes & 45 seconds minimum to 2 minutes & 15 seconds maximum.

2. Number of Dancers: 2

3. All other rules as outlined under Latino Show Teams above.

Small Groups

1. Length of Exhibition: 2 minutes & 30 seconds minimum to 3 minutes maximum

2. Number of Dancers: 3 - 7

3. All other rules as outlined under Latino Show Teams above.

Formations

1