Rules and Regulations

Registration

  • Registration fees are non-refundable.
  • Results are sent by email by THE BEAT.
  • Judges’ comments are sent by email by the video company, HFT Communications.
  • Any change made after January 1 will incur a $25 fee per modification.
  • The Beat reserves the right to refuse registrations if time slots are full.
  • The preliminary schedule is sent in January.
  • The final schedule is available one month before the competition.
  • The Beat reserves the right to combine certain categories to avoid having a routine perform alone.
  • Duos and trios are judged in the same categories.
  • The workshop is offered free of charge to dancers registered for the competition. Unregistered dancers wishing to participate must pay a $25 fee.
  • If a routine includes more than three acrobatic elements, it must be registered in the “Open Style” category.
  • A $25 fee will apply for any returned (NSF) cheques.

Respect

  • All participants, studio directors, dancers, choreographers, and spectators must demonstrate respectful and courteous behaviour during The Beat events. Any form of rudeness, bullying, or harassment will not be tolerated. Individuals who do not comply may be removed from the venue.
  • Only dancers, studio owners, choreographers, and designated parent chaperones are allowed in the dressing rooms.
  • The Beat reserves the right to disqualify any group that displays poor sportsmanship.
  • Dancers are expected to respect the venues, especially in the dressing areas (e.g., food waste, garbage).
  • Video recording is strictly prohibited in the competition hall.
  • Photos without flash are permitted.

Participants

  • By participating in The Beat, studio directors authorize the organization to use photos taken during the event for promotional purposes.
  • The Beat is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
  • The Beat is not liable for injuries that occur during the competition.
  • Studio owners and/or choreographers are responsible for their groups during the event. Respectful behavior is required at all times.
  • Dancers are not permitted to rehearse on stage during breaks.
  • Participants must be backstage at least three numbers before their scheduled routine.
  • It is your responsibility to follow the competition schedule. In case of delay, you will only be allowed to perform if the category is still in progress. If it is over, the routine cannot be presented.
  • For any situation involving a parent or participant, THE BEAT will communicate only with the studio representative.
  • All participants must be available for the entire duration of the event unless a specific case is approved by THE BEAT.
  • A dressing room will be assigned to you upon arrival. It is recommended to arrive at least 1.5 hours before your scheduled performance time.
  • Competition days may start as early as 7:00 AM and end around 11:00 PM.
  • The Beat will do its best to accommodate quick costume changes.

Music

  • Music files must be uploaded no later than March 1.
  • Any music not submitted by the deadline will incur a $25 fee per routine.
  • A backup USB containing all music files is highly recommended.
  • Music must not contain inappropriate, vulgar, offensive, or discriminatory language.
  • The Beat does not accept specific requests regarding music volume or special lighting.

Accessories

  • Props are allowed but may not be stored backstage. A quick removal plan must be prepared and submitted in advance.
  • Props that leave residue or debris on stage are strictly prohibited.

Judges

  • Judges receive a 2-hour training session led by a certified instructor appointed by The Beat
  • They are assigned to divisions aligned with their area of expertise.
  • The organization takes necessary measures to avoid conflicts of interest.
  • During training, judges are introduced to The Beat’s philosophy, values, and educational approach to ensure a respectful and constructive evaluation that aligns with our mission. While we cannot control every word spoken, we strive to ensure that feedback reflects the spirit of care and growth that defines The Beat.

Evaluation Criteria

  • Performances are evaluated based on three criteria:
    1. Technique
    2. Choreography
    3. Aesthetics
  • Judges’ decisions, including point deductions or category changes, are final.
  • In the event of a tie, the highest technical score will be used to determine the winner.
  • No communication with the judges is allowed during the competition.