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WELCOME TO THE 19th MONTREAL SALSA CONVENTION 2024 EXTREME LATIN DANCE COMPETITION!
CATEGORIES: HEATS & SHOWCASE FOR PROFESSIONAL, AMATEUR, TEAM, & PRO-AM DANCERS
Participation from Competitors of Different Nationalities in All Categories is Accepted.
MINIMUM AGE
The minimum age for participants is 18 years old unless age is specified in the 17 and Under category.
OPEN TO ALL
The competitions are open to all national and international artists.
COMPETITOR PASS
All competitors must purchase a Competitor Pass to access Montreal Salsa Convention activities.
COMPETITION DATE
The competition will be held on (Thursday) May 16th and (Friday) May 17th, 2024. The event will be open to the public, and the final results will be presented at the end of the competition.
SIZE OF THE STAGE
Stage dimensions: approximately 28’ x 20’ (width x depth), with stairs on each side.
REGISTRATION FORMULA – HEATS & SHOWCASES
All competitors must be registered for a minimum of 1 entry to be eligible for the reduced-price Competitor Pass. Should you register for 4 or more entries, your Competitor Pass will be further reduced.
HEATS LEVELS
Registration for a maximum of 2 levels of any division will be accepted to allow competitors to stand out and compete in a fair and balanced environment. Each director and/or instructor will be responsible for registering their students at the respective levels while respecting the guidelines of each level.
Simply register HERE
REGISTRATION DEADLINES
- Until March 15th: Early bird registration
- March 16th to April 30th: Registrations at regular price
- May 1st to May 16th: Last chance
STEPS TO OBTAIN THE COMPETITOR PASS
- Send proof of registration to info@montrealsalsaconvention.com to receive the PROMO CODE.
- Obtain the competitor pass online on Eventbrite using a promotional code assigned to each competitor.
- If a competitor has already purchased a regular Full Pass before registering, it cannot be changed into a Competitor Pass. However, all the access that a Competitor Pass offers will be the same as a Regular Pass.
- There are no refunds/no transfer/no credits for the purchased “Competitor Pass”.
TIMELINE OF COMPETITORS PASS PRICE CHANGE ( as of January 20th )
- Until February 15th: $229 plus fees
- Until March 15th: $239 plus fees
- Until April 15th: $249 plus fees
- Until May 1st: $259 plus fees
- Register for 4 or more entries and receive your competitor’s pass for only $199
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
MEDIA RELEASE
Upon registration, participants grant full authorization for the unrestricted release of all media (photos and videos) for commercial purposes, without any financial or contractual obligations imposed on the event organizers.
LIABILITY
The festival assumes no responsibility for accidents that may occur during the preparation or execution of competitors’ performances. The 19th Montreal Salsa Convention 2024 shall not be held liable for the physical condition or health of competitors before, during, or after the event.
RESTRICTIONS
Theme choreography and the utilization of accessories, including flags, caps, hats, chairs, tables, costume changes on stage, and any form of symbolism, are strictly prohibited.
COMPLIANCE AND PENALTIES
By registering with the Montreal Salsa Convention, participants fully accept the commitment to follow the competition’s regulations. They acknowledge and respect decisions made by judges, organizers, audience, sponsors, or any official linked to the convention. Non-compliance with any rules may result in penalties, including point deductions or disqualification, without registration cost reimbursement.
REGULATION ADJUSTMENT
The competitor acknowledges and agrees that the regulations are subject to potential adjustments. Following and adhering to the rules are mandatory for all participants registering for the competition, and the competitor commits to wholeheartedly accepting the convention and judges’ decisions without any form of dispute.
WITHDRAWAL POLICY
If a competitor decides to withdraw from any category after payment of the registration fee, the MSC organization does not provide any reimbursement for the costs paid by the competitor.
LOST OR STOLEN ITEMS
The MSC organization assumes no responsibility for any items used or brought by the competitor, including but not limited to costumes, dance shoes, jewelry, and personal belongings. This includes items that may be lost, forgotten, or stolen during the event.
ELIMINATORY STAGE
The festival reserves the right to introduce an elimination round for any category if deemed necessary.
REHEARSAL
There will be no run-through or dress rehearsal or general practice on the performance stage.
Score Announcement
The scores will be provided on the website after the event.
Competition Guidelines
1. Non-Refundable Entry Fees
Competition Registration entry fees are non-refundable/non-transferable. It is a live event and refund and/or transfer will not be accepted after the purchase.2. Division Cancellation
If there are fewer than 3 entries in any division, the MSC reserves the right to cancel or combine that division. Entry fees will be refunded if the division is canceled, and the fee will apply to the combined division.3. Costumes
Competitors must wear costumes and shoes regardless of the environment in which they choose to perform. Jeans are discouraged as costumes. Costumes will be judged as part of Presentation.4. All Circumstances Considered
All circumstances will be taken into consideration, and they will not affect the score. This includes space and floor limitations and other restrictions related to current world circumstances.5. Dossards
Only one person from each couple will wear a number sign pinned to their back. In any Amateur Division, the male dancer will wear the number sign, and in any Pro-Am Division, the Amateur dancer will wear the number sign.6. No Props
NO PROPS are allowed in any category. Props are defined as items not part of a dancer’s costume and not attached for the entire duration of the choreography.7. Rhythm Must be Consistently Maintained
Rhythm must be consistently maintained throughout the performance.8. Competitor’s Choreography
The competitor’s choreography must predominantly feature distinct and characteristic steps and dance elements that represent the rhythm chosen by the competitor (Bachata, Salsa, Hustle, etc.).9. Music Alignment
In their respective categories, participants must use music that aligns with the dance style, such as Salsa, Bachata, Hustle, etc.. Mixing music from other genres is prohibited.10. Consistent Musical Timing
Maintaining consistent musical timing throughout the performance is essential. Non-compliance with this rule may lead to point deductions in Timing or Musicality categories.11. Showcase Category Limitations
For the Showcase Category, dips, drops, lifts, and shines are allowed but limited to 30% of the performance. Tricks, Dips, Drops, and Flares must be successfully executed to receive credit.12. Heats Limitations
For Heats, dips, drops, lifts, or tricks are not permitted. Shines, however, are allowed, provided they make up no more than 20% of the performance. Any maneuver where both partners elevate both feet off the ground simultaneously, assisted or supported by each other, is not allowed. If either dancer takes both feet off the floor, there will be deductions in points. Furthermore, if any part of either dancer’s body is raised above their partner’s shoulder level, the couple will be disqualified, and no refund will be provided.13. Length of Routine
Solo Showcases – 1:30 to 2:00 minutes Couple Showcases – 1:30 to 2:30 minutes Team Showcases – 1:30 to 3:00 minutes14. Showcase Categories Timing
Showcase Categories will have no more than 20 seconds to get into place for the performance, and 20 seconds to exit the floor at the conclusion. For Heats, no entrances or exits.15. Submission of Music
A maximum of 3 songs can be mixed into the routine. Competitors must submit music in advance through links on the competition page. Identified with competitor name, song title and category/division.16. Competition Categories
Categories are divided into 6 groups – Professional, Amateur, Pro-Am Female, Pro-Am Male, Teams and 17 Under.17. Divisions Separation
Divisions will be separated by skill levels (Newcomer, Novice, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate and Advanced), age groups (17 and Under, 18 and Over, Over 40, and Over 50), as well as status (Solo and Same-Gender).18. Competitor’s Level
Competitor may dance up to two levels (their own level, plus one level up). This applies to both Showcase and Heats.19. Order of Competitors
Order of competitors in Showcase divisions will be assigned in reverse order as competitors check in for each division to expedite the process.20. Check-In Time
All competitors must check-in during designated times. Late check-in may result in disqualification without a refund.21. Head Judge Decisions
The head judge will have the final say on all discrepancies, and any questions/disputes should be brought to their attention.22. Competitor Pass
Each competitor must have a Full Pass (Competitor Pass) and register in their chosen Category and Division to participate.23. Verbal Expressions
Verbal expressions like singing or talking during the performance are discouraged.24. Release of Liabilities
By registering, competitors release the Montreal Salsa Convention and judges of all liabilities.Advanced Level:
Geared towards competitors with extensive years of competition experience, the Advanced level caters to dancers who have engaged in dancing for more than 3 years and are dedicated to honing their expertise. This stage involves preparing for professional performances or engagements.The Advanced level caters to more dedicated competitors. Dancers should have a firm grasp of intermediate-level material before progressing to the advanced stage. This tier surpasses mere proficiency in social dancing, aiming at dancers with robust technical aptitude, impeccable timing, adept musical interpretation, and exceptional partnering skills.Guideline: The Advanced category generally comprises students with at least 3 years of dancing experience, including prior competition involvement or participation in student performance teams or amateur teams.
Amateur:
Participating in professional-level dance competitions is prohibited for amateurs, and they are not permitted to assume professional roles in Pro-Am competitions. Furthermore, amateurs have not competed at the professional level. In contrast, amateur-level dancers enjoy the freedom to teach and perform, although they receive minimal compensation for their teaching and performances.Amateur Over 40 Divisions:
Defined as an amateur couple whose partners are BOTH 40 years of age or older on the day of the competition. A couple is defined as one male and one female unless otherwise stated such as in the “Same-Gender” divisions.Amateur Over 50 Divisions:
Defined as an amateur couple whose partners are BOTH 50 years of age or older on the day of the competition. A couple is defined as one male and one female unless otherwise stated such as in the “Same-Gender” divisions.Amateur Team Showcase Divisions:
All the members of the Team are Amateurs.Bachata:
A Dominican dance, involves a three-step with Cuban hip motion, followed by a hip tap on the fourth beat. Swaying hips are vital, embodying the dance’s soul. Lower body, especially hips, moves more than the upper body.Beginner Level:
This level is tailored for individuals who possess little to no prior training or just a few months of experience, displaying a grasp of foundational dance elements. It caters to those new to the style or entering the current season’s competition for the first time. Typically, beginners have less than 1 year of studio instruction. They exhibit an understanding of basic dance techniques.Suggested Patterns:
Salsa: Single underarm turns, 1 ½ turns during movement (e.g., cross body leads), transitioning in and out of patterns, and cross body leads leading to a check position.Hustle: Include Cross Body Lead, Wheel, Hesitations, combinations of underarm turns, New York Walk, Las Vegas, Grapevine, Shadow with Comb, Sliding Door, Cross Body Lead coupled with Underarm Turn, Leader’s Behind the Back Pass, and Open Breaks.Bachata: Integrate single turns to the right and left, lateral and forward-backward travel, the sweetheart pattern, and similar moves.*Note: Patterns are presented as suggestions only. You have the liberty to incorporate any self-designed pattern, as long as you adhere to the established guidelines.Categories:
Categories are groupings of dance styles, techniques, or genres that share common traits, aiding in organizing and distinguishing various forms of dance. They facilitate the comprehension and study of diverse movements and artistic expressions in dance, each with distinct defining features.Cha-Cha:
A lively and rhythmic dance that originated in Cuba. It is characterized by quick, syncopated steps and hip movements, often danced to upbeat Latin music. The dance incorporates a distinctive pattern of three quick steps (cha-cha-cha) followed by two slower steps, giving it a playful and energetic feel. The Cha-Cha is also a popular ballroom dance style, often seen in dance competitions and social dance events, and it has become a staple in various music and dance cultures around the world.Check-In:
In the context of a competition refers to the process where competitors are required to register their presence at a specific competition venue, date, and time. This is done to confirm their participation and ensure that all participants are present and ready for the event. Check-in helps us manage the logistics of the competition, finalize the schedule, and ensure a smooth start to the event.Combo Pass:
Experience an exclusive opportunity provided by the organizers, granting you access to our annual activities of both events at a discounted rate. The two events being, the “Montreal Bachata Festival” and the “Montreal Salsa Convention”.Competitor Pass (Dancers Pass):
This discounted pass offers the same benefits as a Regular Pass, ensuring that Competitor Pass holders enjoy the same privileges as those who bought a Regular Pass. Kindly note that all registered competitors are required to obtain a Pass.Couple:
In dancing, a “couple” refers to a pair of individuals who dance together as partners. They work in tandem to execute choreography or dance moves that involve coordinated movements, connection, and interaction. In partner dances, such as ballroom, salsa, tango, and swing, the couple comprises a lead (usually the person who initiates the movements) and a follow (the person who responds to the lead’s cues). The connection and communication between the couple.Divisions:
Refers to distinct categories or groups into which participants are organized based on certain criteria. These criteria could include factors such as age, skill level, dance style, or other relevant characteristics. Divisions ensure that competitors are competing against others who are similar in terms of their dance experience, age range, or technical abilities. This helps to create a fair and equitable playing field, allowing dancers to showcase their skills and artistry within a more appropriate and relevant context.
Heated (Just Dance) Divisions:
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.
Intermediate Level:
Designed for dancers entering their second year of dance, this level marks the phase where dancers begin to incorporate more intricate figures and assemble longer routines. Participants are well-acquainted with both rhythms and patterns, along with the genre’s technical nuances. This tier aims to enhance the execution of moderately basic content while introducing slightly more demanding material. It caters to those who have mastered fundamentals, established solid technique, and are striving to cultivate professional performance skills.
Latin Hustle:
A dance style that emerged during the disco era in the 1970s. It combines elements of hustle, a partner dance that originated in the 1970s, with Latin dance influences. The Latin Hustle incorporates energetic footwork, spins, and partner patterns, often danced to disco and Latin music. This dance style is characterized by its dynamic and vibrant movements, which draw from Latin dance forms such as salsa, mambo, and cha-cha, while still maintaining the basic structure of the hustle. The Latin Hustle gained popularity during the disco era and continues to be danced in various social dance settings and events, showcasing the fusion of disco and Latin dance elements.
Levels:
Refer to the hierarchical stages or categories that classify dancers based on their skill, experience, and proficiency. These levels help to ensure that competitors are placed in groups with others who are at a similar stage of their dance journey, creating a fair and balanced competitive environment. The levels commonly range from newcomer to advanced, and dancers may be categorized as:
- Newcomer
- Novice
- Pre-Intermediate/Intermediate
- Advanced
Merengue:
A lively Dominican dance where partners hold each other closely and move their hips side to side while doing simple steps. It’s known for its upbeat music and celebratory atmosphere, making it a popular social dance at parties and events.
Newcomer Level:
This level is designed for dancers who are entirely new to the style, possess limited experience, or aim to grasp the core principles. It is tailored for those entering their first competition. It’s crucial to uphold continuous connection between partners, thus avoiding solo footwork moments (“shines”). Movements should remain contained within the designated space; there should be no crossing the room. Within this level, dancers are permitted to execute single and 1 ½ left turns, exemplified by the Cross Body Lead technique. However, executing double turns or multiple spins is not allowed. Furthermore, consecutive 1 1/2 turns are also restricted.
Novice Level:
Geared toward dancers who possess some prior class experience or a few months of practice, showcasing a firm grasp of foundational skills. This level caters to individuals who are new participants in the current season’s competition. Typically, novice contestants hold less than 1 year of studio training. They possess a comprehension of and can execute basic dance elements.
Open Division:
A division in which it is open to all levels, all ages, all dance genres and all styles unless otherwise specified in the division title.
Over 40 Divisions:
Defined as an amateur couple whose partners are BOTH 40 years of age or older on the day of the competition. A couple is defined as one male and one female.
Over 50 Divisions:
Defined as an amateur couple whose partners are BOTH 50 years of age or older on the day of the competition. A couple is defined as one male and one female.
Pre-Advanced Level:
For high level intermediate and advanced dancers who have strong skills and are working towards dancing at a professional level.
Pre-Intermediate Level:
Geared toward experienced dancers, this level accommodates confident individuals with substantial technical knowledge and a strong command of the rhythmic language of the dance style. The content within this tier presents challenges across rhythm, technique, and tempo.
Pro-Am:
Refers to a partnership format where a professional dancer (Pro) pairs with an amateur dancer (Am) to compete together. This format allows amateurs to gain experience, learn from professionals, and participate in competitions even if they aren’t at the professional level themselves.
Professional:
After a dancer enters the Professional category, they are no longer eligible to compete as an amateur. However, professional dancers still have the option to participate alongside amateurs in the Pro-Am divisions.
Salsa:
All styles of Salsa are accepted. Couples can choose to dance either On1 or On2 but must maintain consistent timing for the duration of the routine or heat. Recognized timing for this competition is 1-2-3/5-6-7. Pro-Am & Amateur Heated Divisions will have separate categories for Salsa On1 and for Salsa On2.
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.
17 & Under:
Dancers must be 17 years of age or younger on the day of the competition to compete in this division.
Shines:
Shines involve 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, there might be the inclusion of tricks, but lead and follow patterns are typically excluded.
Showcase:
Defined as a category where the partnership, the solo dancer or the team showcases their choreography and dances to the music of their choice.
Solo:
An individual performance category where a single dancer performs without a partner. It highlights the dancer’s skills, creativity, and stage presence.
Styling:
It encompasses the visual appeal a dancer crafts and the distinctive dance style they adopt, like choosing between linear or rotational movement structures. It involves graceful and refined movements, aligning with your natural motion while harmoniously blending with the dance’s essence.
Teams:
A collective of three or more dancers. Small Teams consist of 4 couples or 8 dancers or less. Large Teams consist of 5 or more couples, or 9 dancers or more.
West Coast Swing:
Originating in the US, particularly the West Coast, West Coast Swing is a versatile partner dance that interprets various music genres. It features smooth, slotted movements within a designated space on the floor. With a blend of counts, intricate footwork, and subtle partner connection, it suits crowded spaces and diverse tempos. Known for improvisation and creativity, West Coast Swing is a favored choice in social dances and global competitions.