Rules and Regulations

We're thrilled to have you join us at Michigan Ballet Festival, a celebration of artistry, excellence, and community. Below you'll find everything you need to know to prepare — from entry requirements to safety policies and event etiquette.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We're happy to help.

Entry & Competition Rules

  • Age divisions are based on the dancer's age as of January 1st of the event year:

    • Petites: 6–8 years old

    • Juniors: 9–11 years old

    • Teens: 12–14 years old

    • Seniors: 15–18 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.not contain inappropriate lyrics.

  • Solos

    • Contemporary/Classical: 2:30 maximum

    Ensembles

    • Classical Pas de Deux: 6:00 maximum (Adagio and Coda only)

    • Contemporary Pas de Deux: 3:30 maximum

    • Duet/Trio (2–3 members): 2:45 maximum

    • Ensemble (4 members): 3:30 maximum

    • Ensemble (5+ members): 5:00 maximum

  • 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 provides individualized feedback to help each performer reach their full potential.

    Each performance is evaluated by three judges, with each judge scoring out of 100 — for a combined total score out of 300 — based on the following criteria:

    1. Technique & Fundamentals (40 points) — Alignment, turnout, footwork, and proper execution of movements (pirouettes, arabesques, extensions, jumps).

    2. Artistry & Musicality (20 points) — Fluidity, grace, emotional expression, and musical interpretation.

    3. Performance Quality & Stage Presence (15 points) — Command of the stage, confidence, and audience connection, staying true to the piece's style.

    4. Line & Aesthetics (15 points) — Visual impact and presentation, including the quality of lines and how costume choices support the piece.

    5. Execution (10 points) — Accuracy, timing, synchronization (for groups), and cleanliness of movement.

    In addition to scores, dancers receive personalized video feedback from the judges — detailed, expert insight to help them grow and refine their artistry and technique.

Safety & Backstage Policies

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

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

  • For male dancers 14 years old or younger, it's strongly recommended to perform using "par terre" partnering, without lifts above shoulder level.

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

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

  • Dancers should stay hydrated and eat balanced meals throughout the day. Snacks should be eaten only in designated areas to avoid allergens and maintain cleanliness.

  • Dancers are responsible for warming up before master classes, rehearsals, and performances. Use designated warm-up spaces for safety and to avoid disrupting others.

  • Proper footwear and dance attire must be worn at all times. Avoid jewelry or accessories that could cause injury.

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

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

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

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

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

  • Observable and Interruptable Rule: All interactions between faculty/guest faculty and students must be observable and interruptable.

  • MBF reserves the right to take photos and video during any part of the event, and by participating, participants and guardians agree to their use for MBF promotional purposes. No personal photography or videography is permitted during performances, adjudications, or master classes.

Dancer Code of Conduct

The Michigan Ballet Festival is committed to a positive, respectful environment for all participants. We ask all dancers, teachers, families, and staff to follow these guidelines:

Respect & Kindness

  • Treat all participants, festival staff, guest instructors, and fellow attendees with kindness and respect.

  • Use positive, supportive language at all times.

Venue Etiquette

  • Respect the property of the performing arts center, including dressing rooms, rehearsal spaces, and performance areas.

  • Follow all instructions from Festival staff and venue personnel.

  • Eating is only permitted in designated areas — no food or beverages in dressing rooms, backstage, or classrooms.

Backstage Etiquette

  • Maintain a quiet, focused atmosphere backstage.

  • Be punctual and ready for your assigned class, performance, or rehearsal time.

  • Leave dressing rooms and shared spaces clean and tidy after use.

For Families & Audience Members

  • Avoid entering class or rehearsal spaces so dancers and faculty can concentrate.

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

  • Provide updated medical information for your dancer and ensure any necessary labeled medications are on hand.

By following these guidelines, families and studios help create a positive, safe, and enjoyable experience for every dancer at MBF.