Newcomer Division Level Rules and Regulations
To ensure fairness and uphold the integrity of the competition, the following strict rules apply specifically to the Newcomer level.
Understanding the Newcomer Division Level
The Newcomer Division is a newly introduced level designed for first-time competitors, including dancers who have never competed before or those with experience in other dance genres but new to this competition style. It provides a supportive environment for dancers to gain experience on the competition floor. To maintain the integrity of this level, dancers with any prior competition experience—regardless of style or category—are not eligible and must register at the appropriate level (e.g., Beginner, Pre-Intermediate).
Permitted Movements
Newcomers are only allowed to execute moves and figures that fall within the basic and fundamental techniques of their dance style. Advanced tricks, lifts, drops, acrobatic elements, and overly complex patterns are strictly prohibited.
The official Canadian Salsa Dance Corporation (CSDC) curriculum will serve as the primary reference for all permitted figures and steps. Competitors and instructors are encouraged to review the curriculum to ensure compliance.
Scrutineering
A designated scrutineer will oversee the competition to ensure all participants adhere to the established rules. The scrutineer’s role is to monitor, evaluate, and report any rule violations to the judging panel.
Penalties for Rule Violations
- One warning will be issued during the performance; after that, point deductions will begin.
- A five-point deduction per infraction from the overall score.
- Disqualification will occur after three infractions (totaling 15 points deducted).
1. General Information
- Competition Dates: Thursday, May 15th & Friday, May 16th, 2025.
- Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 1255 Jeanne-Mance Montréal, QC H3B 5L4
- Eligibility: Open to national and international competitors of all levels.
- Minimum Age: 18+ (except for the 17 & Under category).
- Stage Size: Approximately 24’ x 24’ with stairs on both sides (subject to change, check updates one month prior).
2. Competition Categories
- Heats & Showcase
- Professional
- Amateur
- Team
- Pro-Am
- 17 & Under
3. Registration & Competitor Pass
- Minimum Entries: Competitors must register for at least two entries to access the discounted Competitor Pass.
- Registration Deadlines:
- Early Bird: Dec 24 – Feb 28
- Regular Price: Mar 1 – Apr 4
- Last Chance: Apr 5 – May 9
- How to Obtain the Competitor Pass:
- Register and send proof to info@montrealsalsaconvention.com.
- Receive a promo code.
- Purchase the Competitor Pass via Eventbrite.
- Competitor Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable.
4. Policies & Regulations
- Media Release: By registering, competitors grant permission for photos/videos to be used for promotional purposes.
- Liability: Competitors participate at their own risk; the event is not liable for injuries or lost belongings.
- Restrictions: No props, theme choreography, costume changes, or symbolic accessories (flags, hats, chairs, etc.).
- Compliance & Penalties: Non-compliance with regulations may result in point deductions or disqualification.
- Regulation Adjustments: Rules may be updated at the organizer’s discretion; competitors must comply.
- Withdrawals: No refunds for withdrawal after registration.
- Rehearsals: No scheduled run-throughs, dress rehearsals, or practice time on stage.
- Score Announcements: Results will be published on the event website post-competition.
Welcome to the official Competition Rules for this event. These guidelines have been carefully designed to ensure a fair, professional, and safe environment for all competitors. Whether you are a solo performer, part of a couple, or a team, it is essential to review and comply with all rules outlined below. From check-in procedures and performance expectations to division classifications and penalties, these rules aim to maintain the highest standard of competition and sportsmanship. By participating, you agree to adhere to these regulations and uphold the spirit of the event.
1. General Rules
- Check-in Time: Competitors must check in at the designated time. Late check-in may result in disqualification.
- Competitor Pass Requirement: Every competitor must have a valid Competitor Pass.
- Order of Performance: Will be determined a few days before the competition.
- Head Judge Decisions: The head judge has the final say in case of disputes.
- Release of Liability: By participating, competitors release the organizers from liability.
2. Performance Guidelines
- Costumes: Required for all performers. Jeans are discouraged.
- No Props Allowed: Items not attached to costumes are prohibited.
- Rhythm & Musicality:
- Rhythm must be consistently maintained.
- Music must align with the selected dance style (Salsa, Bachata, Hustle, etc.).
- Mixed music genres are ONLY ALLOWED in the Open Division.
- Routine Lengths:
- Solo Showcase: 1:30 – 2:00 min
- Couple Showcase: 1:30 – 2:30 min
- Team Showcase: 1:30 – 3:00 min
- Music Submission: A maximum of 3 song mixes allowed. Must be submitted in advance with competitor details.
3. Competition Structure
- Division Separation:
- Levels: Newcomer, Beginner, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, Pre-Advanced, Advanced.
- Age Groups: 17 & Under, 18 & Over, 40+, 50+, 60+
- Status: Solo, Same-Gender.
- Heats & Showcase Rules:
- Showcase: Dips, drops, lifts allowed but must not exceed 30% of performance.
- Heats: No dips, drops, lifts, or tricks. Shines allowed up to 20%.
- Dossards (Numbers):
- In Amateur Divisions, the male dancer wears the number.
- In Pro-Am, the Amateur wears the number.
4. Penalties & Compliance
- Musical Timing: Consistent timing is required. Failure may result in deductions.
CATEGORIES
A grouping based on factors such as the dancer’s skill level, partnership type, groupings, or age. It organizes competitors to ensure fair and structured participation by matching individuals or groups with similar experience or characteristics, making the competition more balanced and meaningful.
- Pro-am ladies: A category where a professional dancer (Pro) partners with a female amateur dancer (Am). The amateur competes with the guidance of the professional, focusing on skill development and performance quality.
- Pro-am men: A category where a professional dancer (Pro) partners with a male amateur dancer (Am). This format allows the amateur to refine their technique while benefiting from the professional’s experience and mentorship.
- Amateur: Amateurs have not competed at the professional level or taken on professional roles in Pro-Am competitions. While amateur-level dancers may teach and perform, they typically receive minimal compensation for these activities.
- Professional: Once a dancer enters the Professional category, they are no longer eligible to compete as an amateur. However, professional dancers may still participate in Pro-Am divisions, taking on the role of the professional partner.
- Teams: A group category where three or more dancers perform together. Teams may include synchronized choreography, formations, and creative elements to showcase group dynamics and stage presence.
- Small teams: 4 couples or 8 dancers or less.
- Large teams: 5 or more couples, or 9 dancers or more.
- 17 & under: An age-restricted category for dancers who are 17 years old or younger on the competition day. This division provides young dancers with a competitive platform suited to their skill level and age group.
LEVELS
Levels classify dancers based on experience and proficiency to ensure balanced competition.
- Newcomer: For first-time competitors, providing a supportive environment for new dancers.
- Beginner: The next level after Newcomer, for dancers with some experience in dance competitions or formal training.
- Pre-intermediate: Designed for dancers with substantial technical knowledge and a strong understanding of rhythm.
- Intermediate: For dancers in their second year, incorporating more intricate figures and longer routines.
- Pre-advanced: For high-level intermediate dancers working towards professional-level skills.
- Advanced: For competitors with over three years of experience, focusing on refining technique for professional performances.
SHOWCASE DIVISION
Defined as a category where a partnership, solo dancer, or team presents a choreographed routine performed to music of their choice. This division focuses on creativity, performance quality, and storytelling, allowing dancers to highlight their unique style, musicality, and artistic expression without the constraints of a specific syllabus or standardized patterns.
HEATS DIVISION
In this division, all partnered dancers take the stage or floor simultaneously, moving to music chosen by the organizers or DJ. Each heat typically lasts for about 1 to 1.5 minutes. This category focuses on lead and follow dynamics rather than predetermined choreography. Its aim is to showcase partners’ skill in connecting, timing, musicality, and creativity while adapting to various music. Please note that lifts, tricks, flares, or drops are not allowed in this context.
AGE-BASED DIVISIONS
- 17 & under: Competitors must be 17 years of age or younger on the competition day.
- Over 40 divisions: Amateurs must be 40+ years old on the competition day.
- Over 50 divisions: Amateurs must be 50+ years old on the competition day.
- Over 60 divisions: Amateurs must be 60+ years old on the competition day.
DANCE STYLES
Various recognized dance styles included in the competition.
- Bachata: A modern style influenced by Zouk and contemporary dance, emphasizing fluidity, isolations, and body rolls.
- Dominican bachata: Traditional Bachata from the Dominican Republic, known for intricate footwork and syncopated partner movements.
- Cha-cha: A Cuban-origin dance with quick, syncopated steps and rhythmic hip movements.
- Kizomba: A smooth, rhythm-driven partner dance originating from Angola, emphasizing close connection and elegant footwork.
- Latin hustle: A fusion of hustle and Latin dance elements from the disco era, incorporating energetic footwork and partner patterns.
- Merengue: A lively Dominican dance characterized by simple steps and pronounced hip movements.
- Salsa: Includes all Salsa styles, allowing dancers to choose On1 or On2 timing while maintaining consistency.
- West coast swing: A versatile partner dance known for its slotted movements and smooth footwork, adapting to various music genres.
- Open division: Open to all levels, ages, dance genres, and styles unless otherwise specified.
- Shines: Involves fancy footwork, intricate and stylish dancing done separately from your partner and can be choreographed, based on learned patterns, or improvised. In a shines category, lead and follow patterns are typically excluded.
SAME-GENDER
Refers to a category or division where individuals of the same sex or gender identity compete together as partners or in groups. This category allows for dances to be performed by participants of the same gender, acknowledging and celebrating diversity in dance styles and partnerships.
SOLO
An individual performance category where a single dancer performs without a partner. It highlights the dancer’s skills, creativity, and stage presence.
Amateur Ladies Solo Salsa Showcase Over 40
Amateur Ladies Solo Bachata Showcase
Amateur Ladies Solo Bachata Showcase Over 40
Amateur Ladies Solo Open Showcase
Amateur Men Solo Salsa Showcase
Amateur Men Solo Salsa Showcase Over 40
Amateur Men Solo Bachata Showcase
Amateur Men Solo Bachata Showcase Over 40
Amateur Men Solo Open Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On1 Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On2 Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Salsa Shines Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Bachata Showcase Over 50
Am-Am Bachata Shines Showcase
Am-Am Cha-Cha Showcase
Am-Am Latin Hustle Showcase
Am-Am Merengue Showcase
Am-Am West Coast Swing Showcase
Am-Am Open Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Open Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Bachata Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Bachata Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Open Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On1 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On1 Showcase Over 50
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On2 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa On2 Showcase Over 50
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Showcase Over 50
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Cha-Cha Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Cha-Cha Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Latin Hustle Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Latin Hustle Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies Merengue Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Merengue Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Ladies West Coast Swing Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Open Showcase
Pro-Am Ladies Open Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Bachata Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Bachata Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Cha-Cha Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Latin Hustle Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Merengue Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies West Coast Swing Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Ladies Open Showcase
Pro-Am Men Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Men Salsa On1 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Salsa On1 Showcase Over 50
Pro-Am Men Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Men Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Men Salsa On2 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Salsa On2 Showcase Over 50
Pro-Am Men Salsa Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Men Salsa Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Men Bachata Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Men Bachata Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Bachata Showcase Over 50
Pro-Am Men Bachata Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Men Bachata Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Cha-Cha Showcase
Pro-Am Men Cha-Cha Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Latin Hustle Showcase
Pro-Am Men Latin Hustle Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men Merengue Showcase
Pro-Am Men Merengue Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Men West Coast Swing Showcase
Pro-Am Men Open Showcase
Pro-Am Men Open Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa On1 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa On2 Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Salsa Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Bachata Advanced Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Bachata Shines Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Bachata Shines Showcase Over 40
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Cha-Cha Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Latin Hustle Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Merengue Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men West Coast Swing Showcase
Pro-Am Same Gender Men Open Showcase
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Newcomer
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Over 50
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Pre-Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On1 Pre-Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Newcomer
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Over 50
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Pre-Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa On2 Pre-Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Newcomer
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Over 50
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Pre-Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata Pre-Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Cha-Cha Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Cha-Cha Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Cha-Cha Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Cha-Cha Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Newcomer
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Over 50
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Pre-Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Dominican Bachata Pre-Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Latin Hustle Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Latin Hustle Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Latin Hustle Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Latin Hustle Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just Merengue Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just Merengue Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just Merengue Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just Merengue Over 40
Pro-Am Men Just West Coast Swing Advanced
Pro-Am Men Just West Coast Swing Beginner
Pro-Am Men Just West Coast Swing Intermediate
Pro-Am Men Just West Coast Swing Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Bachata Advanced
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Bachata Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Bachata Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Bachata Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Cha-Cha Advanced
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Cha-Cha Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Cha-Cha Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Cha-Cha Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Dominican Bachata Advanced
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Dominican Bachata Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Dominican Bachata Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Dominican Bachata Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Latin Hustle Advanced
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Latin Hustle Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Latin Hustle Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Latin Hustle Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Merengue Advanced
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Merengue Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Merengue Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Merengue Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1 Advance
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1 Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1 Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1 Newcomer
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1 Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2 Advance
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2 Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2 Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2 Newcomer
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2 Over 40
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just West Coast Swing Advanced
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just West Coast Swing Beginner
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just West Coast Swing Intermediate
Pro-Am Same-Gender Men Just West Coast Swing Over 40
Am-Am Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On1 Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Salsa On2 Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Salsa Shines Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Shines Showcase
Am-Am Bachata Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Bachata Showcase Over 50
Am-Am Cha-Cha Showcase
Am-Am Latin Hustle Showcase
Am-Am Merengue Showcase
Am-Am Open Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Open Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Bachata Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Bachata Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Bachata Shines Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Open Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On1 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On1 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On2 Advanced Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa On2 Intermediate Showcase
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Salsa Shines Showcase
Am-Am West Coast Swing Showcase
Amateur Ladies Solo Bachata Showcase
Amateur Ladies Solo Bachata Showcase Over 40
Amateur Ladies Solo Open Showcase
Amateur Ladies Solo Salsa Showcase
Amateur Ladies Solo Salsa Showcase Over 40
Amateur Men Solo Bachata Showcase
Amateur Men Solo Bachata Showcase Over 40
Amateur Men Solo Open Showcase
Amateur Men Solo Salsa Showcase
Amateur Men Solo Salsa Showcase Over 40
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Beginner
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Intermediate
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Newcomer
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Over 40
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Over 50
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Pre-Advanced
Am-Am Just Salsa On1 Pre-Intermediate
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Advanced
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Beginner
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Intermediate
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Newcomer
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Over 40
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Over 50
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Pre-Advanced
Am-Am Just Salsa On2 Pre-Intermediate
Am-Am Just Bachata Advanced
Am-Am Just Bachata Beginner
Am-Am Just Bachata Intermediate
Am-Am Just Bachata Newcomer
Am-Am Just Bachata Over 40
Am-Am Just Bachata Over 50
Am-Am Just Bachata Pre-Advanced
Am-Am Just Bachata Pre-Intermediate
Am-Am Just Cha-Cha Advanced
Am-Am Just Cha-Cha Beginner
Am-Am Just Cha-Cha Intermediate
Am-Am Just Cha-Cha Over 40
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Advanced
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Beginner
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Intermediate
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Newcomer
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Over 40
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Over 50
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Pre-Advanced
Am-Am Just Dominican Bachata Pre-Intermediate
Am-Am Just Latin Hustle Advanced
Am-Am Just Latin Hustle Beginner
Am-Am Just Latin Hustle Intermediate
Am-Am Just Latin Hustle Over 40
Am-Am Just Merengue Advanced
Am-Am Just Merengue Beginner
Am-Am Just Merengue Intermediate
Am-Am Just Merengue Over 40
Am-Am Just West Coast Swing Advanced
Am-Am Just West Coast Swing Beginner
Am-Am Just West Coast Swing Intermediate
Am-Am Just West Coast Swing Over 40
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Bachata
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Cha-Cha
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Dominican Bachata
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Latin Hustle
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Merengue
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Salsa On1
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just Salsa On2
Am-Am Same-Gender Ladies Just West Coast Swing
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Bachata
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Cha-Cha
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Dominican Bachata
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Latin Hustle
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Merengue
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2
Am-Am Same-Gender Men Just West Coast Swing
Amateur Ladies Just Bachata Solo
Amateur Ladies Just Salsa Solo
Amateur Men Just Bachata Solo
Amateur Men Just Salsa Solo
Professional Open Showcase
Professional Salsa On1 Showcase
Professional Salsa On2 Showcase
Professional Salsa Shines Showcase
Professional Bachata Shines Showcase
Professional Bachata Showcase
Professional Cha-Cha Showcase
Professional Ladies Solo Bachata Showcase
Professional Ladies Solo Open Showcase
Professional Ladies Solo Salsa Showcase
Professional Latin Hustle Showcase
Professional Men Solo Bachata Showcase
Professional Men Solo Open Showcase
Professional Men Solo Salsa Showcase
Professional Merengue Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Bachata Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Cha-Cha Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Latin Hustle Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Merengue Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Open Shines Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Open Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On1 Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Salsa On2 Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Ladies West Coast Swing Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Bachata Shines Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Bachata Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Cha-Cha Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Latin Hustle Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Merengue Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Open Shines Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Open Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Salsa On1 Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Salsa On2 Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men Salsa Shines Showcase
Professional Same-Gender Men West Coast Swing Showcase
Professional West Coast Swing Showcase
Professional Just Salsa On2
Professional Just Bachata
Professional Just Cha-Cha
Professional Just Latin Hustle
Professional Just Merengue
Professional Just West Coast Swing
Professional Ladies Just Bachata Solo
Professional Ladies Just Salsa Solo
Professional Men Just Bachata Solo
Professional Men Just Salsa Solo
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just Bachata
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just Cha-Cha
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just Latin Hustle
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just Merengue
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just Salsa On1
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just Salsa On2
Professional Same-Gender Ladies Just West Coast Swing
Professional Same-Gender Men Just Bachata
Professional Same-Gender Men Just Cha-Cha
Professional Same-Gender Men Just Latin Hustle
Professional Same-Gender Men Just Merengue
Professional Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On1
Professional Same-Gender Men Just Salsa On2
Professional Same-Gender Men Just West Coast Swing
Am-Am Salsa Showcase 17 & Under
Am-Am Bachata Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Am-Am Bachata Showcase 17 & Under
Am-Am Open Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Am-Am Open Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Ladies Bachata Solo Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Ladies Open Solo Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Ladies Salsa Solo Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Men Bachata Solo Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Men Open Solo Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Men Salsa Solo Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Team Bachata Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Team Open Showcase 17 & Under
Amateur Team Salsa Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Bachata Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Open Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Open Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Salsa Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Bachata Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Bachata Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Open Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Open Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Salsa Shines Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Salsa Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Team Bachata Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Team Open Showcase 17 & Under
Pro-Am Team Salsa Showcase 17 & Under
Am-Am Just Bachata 17 & Under
Am-Am Just Cha-Cha 17 & Under
Am-Am Just Hustle 17 & Under
Am-Am Just Merengue 17 & Under
Am-Am Just West Coast Swing 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Just Bachata 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Just Cha-Cha 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Just Hustle 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Just Merengue 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Just Salsa 17 & Under
Pro-Am Ladies Just West Coast Swing 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Just Bachata 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Just Cha-Cha 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Just Hustle 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Just Merengue 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Just Salsa 17 & Under
Pro-Am Men Just West Coast Swing 17 & Under
Amateur Large Team Bachata Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Ladies Bachata Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Ladies Open Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Ladies Open Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Ladies Salsa Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Men Bachata Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Men Bachata Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Men Open Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Men Open Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Men Salsa Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Men Salsa Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Open Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Open Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Large Team Salsa Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Amateur Large Team Salsa Showcase (5 couples or more)
Amateur Small Team Bachata Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Bachata Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Ladies Bachata Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Ladies Open Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Ladies Open Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Ladies Salsa Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Men Bachata Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Men Bachata Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Men Open Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Men Open Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Men Salsa Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Men Salsa Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Open Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Open Showcase (4 couples or less)
Amateur Small Team Salsa Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Amateur Small Team Salsa Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Large Team Bachata Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Bachata Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Ladies Bachata Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Ladies Open Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Ladies Open Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Ladies Salsa Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Men Bachata Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Men Bachata Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Men Open Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Men Open Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Men Salsa Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Men Salsa Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Open Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Open Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Salsa Shines Showcase (9 dancers or more)
Pro-Am Large Team Salsa Showcase (5 couples or more)
Pro-Am Small Team Bachata Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Bachata Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Ladies Bachata Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Ladies Bachata Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Ladies Open Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Ladies Open Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Ladies Salsa Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Ladies Salsa Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Men Bachata Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Men Bachata Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Men Open Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Men Open Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Men Salsa Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Men Salsa Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Open Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Open Showcase (4 couples or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Salsa Shines Showcase (8 dancers or less)
Pro-Am Small Team Salsa Showcase (4 couples or less)
The judging criteria for the competition evaluate multiple aspects of a dancer’s performance, ensuring a well-rounded and high-quality presentation. Each category is weighted differently, emphasizing key elements. Judges will assess the competitors’ ability to maintain consistent timing, interpret music creatively, demonstrate strong technique, execute challenging movements, establish partner connection, and deliver a captivating performance.
20% TIMING:
The majority of the routine must demonstrate recognizable timing within the chosen dance genre (e.g., Salsa, Bachata, Hustle*). For Salsa, competitors may choose to break ON 1 or ON 2 but must maintain consistency throughout the routine. The break step can be directed either forward or backward, as long as the timing remains consistent (either on counts 1 and 5 or 2 and 6). The routine should predominantly reflect recognizable Salsa timing.
15% MUSICALITY:
Competitors will demonstrate their ability to creatively work with the timing of their individual music. This can be done in a variety of ways, including patterns, footwork, “hits”, tricks, etc.
15% GENERAL DANCE TECHNIQUE & DANCE SPECIFIC TECHNIQUE:
Dance technique is reflected through balance, placement, and line. This refers also to general technique for partner dance, where the movement is “grounded”, and there is clarity of proper weight changes from foot to foot. Movement should appear to be both clear and effortless. Dance specific technique is sometimes referred to as “latin motion” or “sabor”.
15% DIFFICULTY:
Difficulty is reflected in the complexity of patterns, turns, shines, and the level of tricks, dips, drops, and flares. Examples include the number of turns executed on both single and double foot, the intricacy of shines, and the precision of movement execution. Additional factors include jumps, kicks, extensions, and any movements requiring exceptional balance, flexibility, or strength. To receive credit, all movements must be successfully executed.
15% PARTNERING/CONNECTION:
This is reflected in the lead/follow aspect of the dance. Are partners truly connected, or are they merely executing choreography while holding hands? Synchronicity during side by sides or shines will also help determine the score in this category.
10% CHOREOGRAPHY:
The competitor’s interpretation of the music. Good choreography should contain clever turn patterns and shines. All choreography should be musical, and competitors should show a good usage of the space itself. Originality is a factor here.
10% OVERALL PRESENTATION/SHOWMANSHIP:
Overall Presentation score includes costuming, showmanship, and also good sportsmanship.
The Ultimate Top Teacher Award!
Celebrating 20 Years of Dance Excellence at the Montreal Salsa Convention
Honoring Talent, Dedication, and Passion
This milestone year, we are pulling out all the stops to recognize the incredible contributions of our Latin dance instructors. Our mission is to ignite growth, fuel inspiration, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Latin dance. With CASH PRIZES for the Top 3 Instructors, this is your moment to shine brighter than ever before!
How to Earn Your Spot at the Top
- Points System: Earn 1 point for every Pro-Am competition entry you dance with an amateur student.
- Tie Breaker: In case of a tie, placements will determine the winner—first-place wins add the most, followed by second and third.
Prestigious Prizes Await
- 1st Prize: Compete in 70+ entries to take the crown. (CASH PRIZE + TROPHY)
- 2nd Prize: Achieve 55+ entries to claim silver glory. (CASH PRIZE + TROPHY)
- 3rd Prize: Secure 40+ entries for a podium finish. (CASH PRIZE + TROPHY)
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about competition—it’s a celebration of your relentless passion, creativity, and dedication. This award highlights your invaluable role in shaping the future of dance and inspiring the next generation.
Make History with Us!
Join us for an unforgettable celebration at the Montreal Salsa Convention’s 20th anniversary. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to dazzle the dance floor!
All performers and competitors,
Please provide your music in advance and upload your music in this form. The file will be handed directly to DJ for your showcase Thursday thru Sunday. Suggested file type should be mp3 format.
How to submit: Fill this form and upload the file.
Make sure that you include the EXACT team name in the message box (ie San Tropez Latin Dance School, Amateur Team) especially if your school/company has multiple teams performing at the event. If it is a couple performing, please include the first and last name of each dancer.
File Naming: Detailed naming of your upload file is very important to the efficient organization of the DJ for performances and competitions. Please name each file as follows:
{GroupName}_{TeamName}_{Genre}_{Show/Competition}
EXAMPLES FOR PERFORMANCE:
SanTropez_AmateurTeam_Bachata_Show.mp3
Sonia_Moris_Salsa_Show.mp3
EXAMPLES FOR COMPETITION SHOWCASE:
SanTropez_Team_Salsa_Comp.mp3
Jack_Jill_Amateur_Salsa_Comp.mp3
Music Format: MP3 (minimum bitrate of 220) or Mac AIFF format. Make sure you are submitting good quality files, ie not music downloaded from YouTube.
DEADLINE TO UPLOAD YOUR MUSIC: APRIL 15th, 2025