Welcome to the Dance Machine competition! To ensure a smooth and fair experience for all participants, please carefully review the following rules and regulations. Understanding these guidelines will help you prepare effectively and make the most of your time at our event.
Music Requirements for Dance Machine Events
To streamline the competition process, all music must be uploaded in advance via our online system. It is crucial that your music is recorded at the correct performance speed. As a precautionary measure, we strongly recommend bringing a backup flash drive containing your music in case of any unforeseen technical issues. This ensures a seamless performance experience on competition day.
Time Limits for Performances
To maintain a balanced schedule and allow all participants adequate stage time, we adhere to strict time limits for each performance category:
- Solos, Duet/Trios: 3 minutes maximum
- Groups: 4 minutes maximum
- Productions: 10 minutes maximum
These time limits are inclusive of entrance and exit, as well as any prop setup required. Should your routine require additional time, please contact our office prior to the event to discuss the procedure for requesting an extension. Adherence to these time limits is essential for the smooth running of the competition.
Entry Regulations and Limitations
Participation in Dance Machine competitions is on a first-come, first-served basis. Entries are limited by the available performance time to ensure a well-paced and enjoyable event for everyone. Dance Machine maintains the right to adjust the competition schedule, including adding extra competition days or relocating the event if necessary due to unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, Dance Machine reserves the right to refuse entries at its discretion to maintain the quality and fairness of the competition.
Videography and Photography Policy
To protect the privacy and performance integrity of all dancers and studios, videotaping and photography are strictly prohibited at Dance Machine and ANDC Family Competitions. We understand the importance of capturing these moments, which is why Dance Machine provides complimentary professional photos and videos of every routine at both regional competitions and national championships. This service ensures high-quality memories are available to all participants without compromising the competition environment.
Online Entry System and Scheduling
Utilize our user-friendly ONLINE Entry System to register your routines for the competition. Approximately 10-12 days prior to the regional competition, a detailed schedule will be emailed to you. Please note that unpaid entries will not be included in the schedule. A general performance schedule will also be posted on the Dance Machine website one week before the competition. Timely payment of entry fees is mandatory for participation. We accept certified funds or credit card payments. Double-check all entries before submission, as any changes required after the schedule is created will incur a “change fee.”
Fee Policy and Refunds
Please be aware that ALL FEES ARE NONREFUNDABLE under any circumstances. However, in specific situations, credits may be issued for future events at Dance Machine’s discretion. All communication regarding credits must be facilitated by studio directors; our office will not handle these requests directly with performers’ parents or guardians.
National Championship Qualification
Routines achieving an Elite Gold Award or higher are eligible to advance and compete at our prestigious Dance Machine-America’s National Dance Championships Finals. These finals, known as The Clash of the Champions, are held in June in North Carolina and July in Tennessee, offering a platform for top-tier competition and recognition.
Photogenic Competition Entry Details
For those interested in the Photogenic category, please bring a recent 5×7 or 8×10 inch photograph, either black and white or color, to the competition. On the back of the photo, clearly write the performer’s name, age, and studio affiliation. Photos will be available for collection at the merchandise table after the conclusion of the age division judging. Dance Machine is not liable for any damage to submitted photographs. Entry into the Photogenic category is done on the day of the competition and is open to participants affiliated with a registered studio, even if they are not registered competitors. Do not send photos or payment in advance; entry is processed at the competition with a $50.00 fee per photo. The number of photogenic entries is limited at each competition. Photos will receive an Adjudicated Award and are eligible for Top Score Awards, which are presented during Group Awards at regional competitions.
Restrictions on Stage Props and Substances
To maintain the stage quality and safety for all performers, absolutely NO liquids (including water), gels, aerosols, glitter, confetti, or similar substances that could affect the stage surface are permitted during routines. All props must be set up within the allocated routine time limit, although reasonable additional time may be granted in specific circumstances depending on stage location and conditions.
Competition Day and Time Adherence
All routines must compete on their assigned day and time as per the schedule. Entries that do not compete at their scheduled time will be adjudicated for judging purposes but will not be eligible for top score awards. Any changes to competition days or times are at the sole discretion of Dance Machine and are determined based on the availability of time at each regional competition.
Schedule Flexibility and Fairness
A detailed studio schedule will be emailed 8-10 days before the competition date to studios with fully paid entries. Dance Machine does not follow a fixed schedule format for regional competitions. Each regional schedule is uniquely constructed based on the specific breakdown of entries, including solos, duets/trios, groups, and productions for that particular event. This detailed breakdown is only available after all entries have been processed. Schedules are then created to best accommodate all participants at each competition. We prioritize scheduling to avoid late Sunday nights, considering participants’ school or work commitments the next day. This tailored approach, rather than a rigid format, allows for optimal scheduling. Dance Machine reserves the right to extend or shorten the competition duration or change the competition venue due to unforeseen circumstances, always aiming for a fair and positive experience.
Dance Machine is committed to fair practices, and all rules are applied with fairness as a guiding principle, ensuring the best possible experience for everyone involved.
Maxx Opportunities, Inc., operating as Dance Machine/The ANDC Family of Competitions & Conventions, and the hosting facility are not responsible for any personal injury or property loss. A panel of qualified judges will evaluate performances, and all judges’ decisions are considered final and binding.
