Rules and Regulations

• Age Divisions (based on age as of January 1st of the event year):

  • Seniors: 15-18 years old

  • Teens: 12-14 years old

  • Juniors: 9-11 years old

  • Petites: 6-8 years old

• Ensemble Age Division: Determined by the average age, rounded down.

• Classical Ballet: Variations from classical ballets with classical choreography updated only slightly to match dancers’ technique level.

• Contemporary/Open Dance: Showcasing a different aspect of the dancer’s skill. Music may not contain inappropriate lyrics.

At the Michigan Ballet Festival, our focus is on fostering growth, artistry, and community rather than competition. Dancers are not ranked against one another; instead, our adjudication process is designed to provide individualized feedback that helps each performer reach their full potential. Using the adjudication scale below, our esteemed judges offer valuable insights into technique, artistry, and performance quality, allowing dancers to learn, grow, and refine their craft. This collaborative approach encourages a supportive environment where dancers can celebrate their achievements while building meaningful connections within the dance community.

1. Technique & Fundamentals (40 points)

   • This category focuses on technique fundamentals such as alignment, turnout, footwork, and proper execution movements (e.g., pirouettes, arabesques, extensions, and jumps). Judges assess the dancer's overall technical accuracy.

2. Artistry & Musicality (20 points)

   • Artistry is essential and includes fluidity, grace, and emotional expression. This category focuses on how well the dancer interprets the music and conveys emotion through movement, while maintaining classical elegance and control.

3. Performance Quality & Stage Presence (15 points)

   • Judges assess the dancer’s ability to command the stage with grace, confidence, and a connection to the audience, while remaining true to the style of the chosen piece (e.g., romantic, neoclassical, or contemporary ballet).

4. Line & Aesthetics (15 points)

   • This category evaluates the visual impact and overall presentation of the performance. Judges will assess the quality of movement, including the fluidity, shape, and clarity of lines created through the dancer’s arms, legs, and extensions. Costume and overall presentation will also be considered, focusing on how these elements contribute to the artistic cohesion and effectiveness of the piece.

5. Execution  (10 points)

   • This category evaluates the accuracy and precision of critical technical movements. Judges also assess overall timing, synchronization (for groups), cleanliness, and precision in movement execution.

Each performance will be evaluated by three judges, with each judge providing a score out of 100 based on the adjudication criteria outlined above. This means that dancers will receive a combined total score out of 300. In addition to their scores, dancers will receive personalized video feedback from the judges, offering detailed insights into their performance. This unique opportunity allows dancers to review their work with expert guidance from multiple professionals and perspectives, helping them grow and refine their artistry and technique.

Solos

○ Contemporary/Classical - 2:30

Ensembles

○ Classical Pas de Deux: Maximum - 6:00 (Adagio and Coda only) 

○ Contemporary Pas de Deux: Maximum - 3:30 

○ Duet/Trio (2-3 members): Maximum - 2:45 

○ Ensemble (4 members): Maximum - 3:30 

○ Ensemble (5+ members): Maximum - 5:00

We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all dancers. Please make sure that you adhere to the guidelines set forth below.

Dance and Performance Guidelines

• Pointe Work

  • Dancers under age 10: Strictly prohibited from performing en pointe.

  • Dancers age 11: Strongly discouraged from performing en pointe.

• Pas De Deux/Partnering: For male dancers 14 years old or younger, it is strongly recommended to perform using "par terre" partnering, without lifts above shoulder level.

General Safety Guidelines

• Medical Preparedness:

  • Participants should inform Festival staff of any pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., asthma, allergies) before the event.

  • Bring any necessary medications (e.g., inhalers, EpiPens) and ensure they are clearly labeled and accessible.

• Hydration and Nutrition:

  • Dancers should stay hydrated and eat balanced meals throughout the day to maintain energy and focus.

  • Snacks should be eaten only in designated areas to avoid allergens and maintain cleanliness.

• Warm-Up Requirements:

  • Dancers are responsible for warming up before master classes, rehearsals, and performances to prevent injury.

  • Use designated warm-up spaces for safety and to avoid disrupting others.

• Footwear and Attire:

  • Proper footwear and dance attire must be worn at all times to ensure safety and professionalism.

  • Avoid wearing jewelry or accessories that could cause injury to yourself or others.

Dressing Rooms and Backstage Access

Dressing Rooms:

• Parents are not allowed in the dressing rooms unless their child requires assistance with dressing.

• Only parents of the same gender as the dancer may enter the dressing room to assist.

• No one of the opposite gender is permitted to enter the dressing rooms under any circumstances.

Backstage Access:

• Parents/guardians are not allowed backstage during the Gala.

Faculty and Staff Conduct

• Observable and Interruptable Rule:

  • All interactions between faculty/guest faculty and students must be observable and interruptable.

• Music Deadline (2 weeks before the event):

  • Late submission: $10 penalty per entry

  • Submission/updates during competition weekend: $20 penalty per entry

    (payable onsite)

• TBD Deadline (2 weeks before the event):

  • Entries still marked "To Be Determined" (TBD) after this deadline: $10 penalty per entry

• Refund Policy:

  • No refunds. Credits are only issued for injuries, with a $120 administrative fee deducted.

  • Credits must be requested with a doctor's letter (signed and on letterhead) submitted 2 weeks before the event.

• Illness: Entry fees (minus $120 administrative fee) may be transferred to another event with a valid doctor's note.

MBF reserves the right to make photo/video recordings during any part of the event. By participating, participants and their guardians agree to the use of these recordings for MBF promotional purposes. No personal photography or videography is permitted during performances, adjudications, or master classes.

The support of parents and guardians is vital to the success of the festival. We encourage families to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

1. Respect the space and focus of dancers and instructors:

   • Avoid entering class or rehearsal spaces to allow dancers and faculty to concentrate.

   • Parents are not allowed in the audience during master classes unless an observer pass is purchased.

2. Follow dressing room policies:

   • Parents are not allowed in dressing rooms unless their child requires assistance with dressing.

   • Only parents of the same gender as the dancer may enter dressing rooms to assist.

   • Under no circumstances is someone of the opposite gender allowed to enter dressing rooms.

3. Adhere to backstage rules:

   • Parents and guardians are not permitted backstage during the Gala to maintain a safe and organized environment.

4. Maintain a quiet environment in audience spaces:

   • Refrain from disruptive behavior during adjudications, performances, and other events.

5. Support dancer safety:

   • Respect festival policies designed to prioritize dancer safety, including the observable and interruptable rule for faculty interactions.

   • Provide updated medical information for your child and ensure they have any necessary labeled medications (e.g., inhalers, EpiPens).

By following these guidelines, families contribute to the success of the festival and help create a positive, safe, and enjoyable experience for all participants.