Judging Criteria

Choreography is age-appropriate and thoughtfully constructed. Choreography exhibits creative use of space (like changing formations, facing different directions, changing levels, dancing in different part of the space, etc.) and demonstrates clarity and variety in musicality and rhythmic choices.

Choreography has a structure, exhibits some spatial variety, and demonstrates some clarity and variety in musicality and rhythmic choices.

Choreographic structure is not fully realized. Choreography exhibits minimal variety in its use of space. Choreographer incorporates minimal diversity in rhythmic choices and musicality.

Choreography lacks any coherent structure. Choreography lacks creative and intentional use of space, and it lacks clarity and creativity in musicality and rhythmic choices.

Dancers are well-rehearsed and fully perform the movement with clarity.

Dancers are rehearsed. Movements are clear but are not fully executed throughout the work.

Dancers struggle to remember the choreography. Movements are unclear and are seldom executed fully.

Dancers do not exhibit an understanding of the choreography. Movements lack execution, clarity, and intentionality.

Movements flow together in a clearly developed idea. Dance demonstrates a creative approach to exploring the theme and incorporates movements that reference, highlight, or enhance the theme.

Movement ideas are present but are not as clear and fully developed. Dance demonstrates a creative approach to exploring the theme but does not fully incorporate movements that reference, highlight, or enhance the theme.

Movement ideas lack clarity and creativity. Dance demonstrates minimal understanding of the choreographic theme.

Movement ideas are not developed. Dance demonstrates no connection to the theme.

Costumes and makeup are age-appropriate and thoughtfully selected to support and reflect the choreographic intent.

Costumes and makeup are age-appropriate and exhibit some thematic connection.

Costumes and makeup minimally reflect the choreographic theme. Costumes and makeup are not consistently age-appropriate.

Costume and makeup selections do not align with the theme or reflect the choreographic intent. Costume and/or makeup are not age-appropriate.

The presentation elements are thoughtfully integrated and work together to create a cohesive, engaging viewing experience.

The presentation elements generally work together but lack some cohesion.

Presentation elements are minimally integrated and are minimally cohesive.

Presentation elements do not work together or exhibit any cohesion.