As In10sity Dance Competition continues to evolve and elevate the dance experience, we are thrilled to announce exciting updates for the 2025 season! At In10sity, we deeply value the feedback from our participating studios and are committed to creating an inclusive and dynamic environment where every dancer can shine. These changes, effective from 2025, are designed to enhance fairness, celebrate diverse talents, and provide even more opportunities for recognition within the in10sity dance competition.
I. New for 2025: Lines vs. Productions and Ballroom is Here!
One of the most significant updates for the upcoming season is the separation of “Lines” and “Productions” in routines with 20 or more dancers. This change directly addresses feedback from studios seeking clearer distinctions and dedicated adjudication for these large-scale performances within the in10sity dance competition.
1. Lines and Productions: A New Division
Starting in 2025, while both Lines and Productions will still require a minimum of 20 dancers, studios will have the option to classify their routines as either “Line” or “Production” during registration for the in10sity dance competition. This classification choice will impact judging criteria and award eligibility, ensuring each style is evaluated on its own merits. All other competitive class and age division parameters will remain the same.
This update acknowledges the unique artistry and performance qualities inherent in both Line and Production routines. Line routines often emphasize precision, uniformity, and intricate formations within a specific dance genre. Production routines, on the other hand, are known for their theatricality, narrative elements, and incorporation of multiple dance genres to create a spectacular performance. By separating these categories, In10sity aims to provide a more equitable and appreciative judging environment for both types of large group performances within the in10sity dance competition.
2. Best Of Production Awards
Further emphasizing our commitment to Production routines, In10sity Dance Competition is excited to introduce “Best Of Production” awards for the 2025 season. Recognizing that Production routines often blend various dance styles and may not fit neatly into traditional category awards, these new accolades will specifically celebrate the highest-scoring Production routines. Awards will be divided across Premier and Elite competitive classes, and within age divisions (11 & under and 12 & over), ensuring broad recognition within the in10sity dance competition.
This means we will acknowledge outstanding Production routines in the following categories:
- Premier 11 & Under Best of Production
- Elite 11 & Under Best of Production
- Premier 12 & Over Best of Production
- Elite 12 & Over Best of Production
This addition ensures that Production routines receive the specialized recognition they deserve at the in10sity dance competition, highlighting their unique creative and performance achievements.
3. Welcoming Ballroom to the Category List
Responding to popular demand and recognizing the growing interest in ballroom dance, In10sity Dance Competition is thrilled to add “Ballroom” to our official category list for 2025! Ballroom routines, choreographed using classic ballroom techniques and performed in ballroom shoes, will now have a dedicated space to shine within the in10sity dance competition.
This expansion reflects In10sity’s dedication to embracing diverse dance forms and providing a platform for dancers across various genres. We are excited to see the elegance, artistry, and precision of ballroom dance showcased on our stages in the coming seasons of the in10sity dance competition.
4. In10se Platinum: Now Attainable Across All Competitive Classes
Previously exclusive to the Elite Class, In10sity’s highest distinction, In10se Platinum, will become attainable across all competitive classes (Debut, Premier, and Elite) in 2025. This change makes the pursuit of In10se Platinum more inclusive, recognizing exceptional performances regardless of competitive level within the in10sity dance competition.
This update is designed to motivate dancers in all competitive classes to strive for excellence and reach for the highest levels of achievement. The In10se Platinum award will be scaled appropriately for each competitive class, ensuring that the criteria for this prestigious award remain rigorous and reflective of outstanding performance across all levels of the in10sity dance competition.
II. Competition Guidelines and Programs
In addition to these exciting updates for 2025, In10sity Dance Competition maintains its commitment to providing a well-organized, fair, and enriching experience for all participants. Here’s a review of essential guidelines and popular programs within the in10sity dance competition:
1. Camera Policy
To protect dancers and choreographers’ intellectual property, cameras, camcorders, and recording devices are strictly prohibited in performance arenas and dressing areas, unless explicitly authorized by the show director at the in10sity dance competition. Violators will face expulsion from the event. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a secure and respectful environment for all participants at the in10sity dance competition.
2. Con10der Title Program: Shine as an Individual
The Con10der Title Program remains a highlight of In10sity Dance Competition, offering dancers the opportunity to compete for Mini, Junior, Teen, and Senior titles at Regional and National events. Con10ders compete in solo performances and an exclusive improv competition for their age division. Judges evaluate both solo and improv performances to select Con10ders, celebrating well-rounded talent within the in10sity dance competition.
Key features of the Con10der Title Program:
- Exclusive Improv Competition: Con10ders participate in a separate improv competition and are not eligible for the general In10se Improv competition.
- Regional and National Levels: Titles are awarded at both Regional and National In10sity Dance Competition events.
- Solo and Improv Evaluation: Judging is based on both solo performance and improv skills.
- Eligibility for Solo Overalls (Regionals): Regional Con10ders are eligible for solo overall awards within their age division.
- Cash Awards and Scholarships (Regionals & Nationals): Winning Regional Con10ders receive $100 cash and a $100 scholarship for the following Regional season. National winning Con10ders are awarded $500 cash and an All Access Pass scholarship for In10sity events.
- National Re-performance and Recognition: National Con10ders re-perform their solos at the GRP Finale and receive special recognition within the in10sity dance competition.
Alt text: A dynamic image capturing the energy of dancers performing on stage at a dance competition, showcasing the passion and athleticism of youth in motion.
3. In10se Dancers: National Opening Number
The In10se Dancers program offers selected soloists from Regional events the prestigious opportunity to perform in the opening number of the GRP Finale at Nationals. These dancers collaborate with top industry professionals and fellow In10se Dancers from across North America, creating unforgettable memories and fostering camaraderie within the in10sity dance competition.
Program Highlights:
- Selection at Regionals: Judges select outstanding soloists from Elite and Premier classes (Junior, Teen, Senior divisions) at each Regional event.
- National Performance: In10se Dancers perform in the opening number at the National GRP Finale.
- Industry Choreography: Performance choreographed by a leading industry professional.
- Nomination Option: Studios attending Nationals without Regional soloists can nominate performers.
- Audition Opportunity: Dancers not selected at Regionals can audition at Nationals.
4. In10se Improv: Test Your Spontaneity
Open to all registered dancers, the In10se Improv competition provides a platform to showcase improvisational skills. Divided by age division (Mini, Junior, Teen, Senior), and held just before awards, In10se Improv challenges dancers to perform spontaneously to unfamiliar music. Con10der participants have a separate improv competition. Scholarships are awarded to top performers in each In10se Improv division within the in10sity dance competition.
Competition Format:
- Age Divisions: Mini, Junior, Teen, Senior.
- Preliminary to Final Rounds: Dancers advance through rounds based on judges’ evaluations.
- Scholarship Awards: Top dancers receive scholarships redeemable for the following Regional season.
- Non-refundable Entry Fee: Participation fee is non-refundable.
5. In10sity Honors: Celebrating Excellence
In10sity Honors recognizes outstanding routines with special awards presented at Regional events. These honors celebrate various aspects of dance excellence, encouraging studios and dancers to strive for well-rounded performances within the in10sity dance competition.
In10sity Honors Categories:
- Technical Excellence Award: Recognizes exceptional technical skill.
- Perfect Precision Award: Celebrates routines with outstanding precision and execution.
- Exceptional Entertainment Award: Awarded for captivating and entertaining performances.
- Couture Costuming Award: Honors costumes that perfectly complement the music and theme.
- Cutting Edge Choreography Award: Recognizes artistically resonant and innovative choreography.
Alt text: A detailed close-up shot of dance shoes, emphasizing the intricate footwork and technical precision required in competitive dance, relevant to In10sity dance competition.
6. Beauty With In10tion: Photogenic Competition with a Cause
The Beauty With In10tion photogenic competition combines artistry with philanthropy. Participants submit digital photos, and proceeds support the Living With In10tion scholarship program for graduating seniors. Winners are announced in each age division (Mini, Junior, Teen, Senior), adding another layer of recognition and contribution within the in10sity dance competition.
7. Best Of Category & Best Of Production Awards: Recognizing Top Routines
“Best Of Category” awards at Regional events recognize top overall non-solo routines in each age division and category (with a minimum of 5 entries). As introduced in 2025, “Best Of Production” awards specifically honor high-scoring Production routines across Premier and Elite classes and age divisions. These awards celebrate diverse styles and exceptional performances within the in10sity dance competition.
8. Studio of Xcellence: Top Studio Recognition
The “Studio of Xcellence” award distinguishes top-performing studios at Regional and National events. Separate Elite and Premier awards recognize studios with consistently high-scoring routines across age divisions. Winning studios receive a trip for two with In10sity staff, fostering a strong partnership and celebrating studio-wide excellence within the in10sity dance competition.
Studio of Xcellence Criteria:
- Elite Studio of Xcellence: Requires at least one Elite non-solo routine in each age division (Mini, Junior, Teen, Senior). Based on cumulative scores of highest-scoring routines per age division.
- Premier Studio of Xcellence: Requires at least one Premier non-solo routine in each age division (Mini, Junior, Teen, Senior). Based on cumulative scores of highest-scoring routines per age division.
9. The In10sity Challenge: Studio-Wide Competition
The In10sity Challenge fosters studio-wide competition by awarding cash prizes to the top five studios with the highest average scores for their top five non-solo routines at each Regional and National event. This challenge encourages studios to showcase overall strength and depth within the in10sity dance competition.
III. Essential Competition Details
For studios and dancers preparing for the in10sity dance competition, understanding the rules and guidelines is crucial. Here’s a detailed overview of essential competition details:
1. Age Divisions
In10sity Dance Competition offers six age divisions:
- Petite (6 years & under)
- Mini (7-8 years)
- Junior (9-11 years)
- Teen (12-14 years)
- Senior (15-19 years)
- Adult (20 years & older)
Age divisions for group routines are determined by the average age of dancers as of January 1st of the competition year, rounding down to the nearest whole number. Soloist age divisions are based on the dancer’s age as of January 1st. Petite division routines default to the Debut competitive class. “Bumping up” to older age divisions is not permitted.
2. Size Divisions & Time Guidelines
Routines are categorized by size:
- Solo (1 dancer)
- Duet & Trio (2-3 dancers)
- Small Group (4-9 dancers)
- Large Group (10-19 dancers)
- Line & Production (20+ dancers)
While In10sity Dance Competition respects dance as an art form and does not enforce strict time limits, suggested time guidelines are provided: Solos, Duets/Trios, Small Groups (3 minutes); Large Groups/Lines (4 minutes); Productions (7 minutes). The focus is on impactful performances, not rigid time constraints within the in10sity dance competition.
3. Categories: Showcasing Diverse Styles
In10sity Dance Competition offers a wide range of categories (excluding Production routines, which are judged separately):
- Acro
- Ballet
- Ballroom (New for 2025!)
- Character
- Contemporary
- Clogging
- Folk/Ethnic
- Hip Hop
- Jazz
- Lyrical
- Modern
- Musical Theatre
- Open
- Pointe
- Pom/Drill
- Tap
Studios should select the category that best represents the primary style and technique of their routine when registering for the in10sity dance competition.
4. Competitive Classes: Ensuring Fair Competition
In10sity Dance Competition utilizes three competitive classes: Debut, Premier, and Elite. Studios are responsible for placing dancers in the appropriate class based on their experience and training level. Debut class is suggested for beginners, Premier for recreational level dancers with some experience, and Elite for highly competitive dancers with intensive training. Petite division routines are automatically in the Debut class. For group routines with dancers from different classes, the routine defaults to the class with the majority of dancers, or the higher class in case of a tie. Studios can “bump up” a routine to a higher class but not down. Class changes are not permitted after the final schedule release for the in10sity dance competition.
5. Adjudication: Fair and Constructive Feedback
Routines are judged based on:
- Technique (35%)
- Showmanship (25%)
- Precision/Execution (15%)
- Choreography (15%)
- Overall Performance (10%)
Cumulative scoring determines awards (In10se Platinum, Platinum, High Gold, Gold, Silver) within each competitive class (Elite, Premier, Debut). Top-scoring routines are recognized in each division. Tie-breaking prioritizes technique score, then showmanship, precision/execution, choreography, and overall performance scores within the in10sity dance competition.
Scoring Breakdown Examples:
- Elite In10se Platinum: 285-300
- Premier Platinum: 264-278.9
- Debut High Gold: 250-258.9
6. Scheduling & Registration
Tentative schedules are released 7 days prior to each event, after full payment of competition fees. Performance schedules with approximate times are provided to studio administrators. Studios must be prepared to compete 90 minutes before their scheduled time. In10sity Dance Competition reserves the right to adjust schedules as needed. Online registration is streamlined through studio accounts on the In10sity website. Independent entries are not accepted.
Alt text: A behind-the-scenes view of the backstage area at a dance competition, capturing the anticipation and preparation as dancers get ready to perform at the In10sity dance competition.
7. Fees, Media, Props, & Music
- Registration Fees: Due 30 days prior to the event; non-refundable. Payment methods: cash, check, money order (discount available), credit/debit card. Special needs dancers receive a 50% entry fee scholarship.
- Media Fee: A one-time media fee per dancer covers digital downloads of all photos and videos from the competition.
- Props: Allowed, studio responsible for transport and safety. Size and material restrictions apply.
- Music: Must be age-appropriate, profanity-free, and submitted online one week prior to the event. Backup music is recommended.
8. General Information & Cash Awards
- No Human Props, No Coaching from Backstage/Audience.
- No Refunds (Credit for future events in case of illness/injury).
- Cash Awards: Awarded to top-scoring soloists, Con10der winners, In10se Award recipients, and top studios in the In10sity Challenge. Cash awards are payable to studios.
Cash Award Highlights:
- Top Soloists: $50-$100 cash awards based on competitive class and age division.
- Con10der Title Winners: $100-$500 cash awards.
- In10se Award (Top Non-Solo Routines): $250 cash award.
- In10sity Challenge (Top Studios): $100-$1000 cash awards based on studio average scores.
IV. Join Us for an In10se 2025 Season!
In10sity Dance Competition is dedicated to providing an exceptional and evolving experience for dancers, studios, and families. We are excited about the updates for the 2025 season, including the Lines vs. Productions separation, Ballroom category, and expanded In10se Platinum access. We invite you to join us for a season of incredible talent, inspiring performances, and unforgettable moments within the in10sity dance competition. Visit our website at ten-dance.com for registration details and further information. We look forward to seeing you shine on the In10sity stage!
