Rules
Classifications, divisions, time limits and policies.
All ages are determined as of January 1 2027.
Classifications
Routines are entered by skill classification as well as age.
Any dancer who trains more than 6 hours per week.
Age Divisions
A dancer's age is determined as of January 1, 2027.
9 and under
10 – 12
13-15
16-18
19 and over
Entry Categories
A 15-second grace period in allowed for each routine. Time and classification limitations will be strictly enforced.
| Category | Dancers | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Solo | 1 dancer | 2:45 |
| Duet / Trio | 2 – 3 dancers | 2:45 |
| Small Group | 9 dancers or less | 3:30 |
| Large Group | 10 – 14 dancers | 3:30 |
| Line | 15 – 20 dancers | 4:00 |
| Extended Line | 21 – 29 dancers | 5:00 |
| Production | 30 dancers or more | — |
A fusion of dance and acrobatic tricks. Flexibility and power blended seamlessly with dance movement.
A combination of jazz and ballet techniques to slow music, incorporating emotional and storytelling elements.
Maximum 4 Acro TricksBallet or pointe technique, including classical variations.
No Acro TricksPrimarily jazz technique, using up-tempo music.
Maximum 4 Acro TricksPrimarily tap technique. Routines demonstrating clogging technique and style may not compete in the tap category.
No Acro TricksA fusion of many dance techniques with a strong emphasis on modern technique.
Maximum 4 Acro TricksAny routine interpreting a Broadway or movie soundtrack.
Maximum 6 Acro TricksA routine that does not fit the definition of an existing category.
Maximum 8 Acro TricksPrimarily hip hop technique
Maximum 3 Acro TricksClassical steps and movements done en pointe
No Acro TricksEvent Policies
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All music may be uploaded through DanceBug. Audio files are recommended in MP3 form, up to 50MB each. All music must be appropriate for all audience members and refrain from using offensive language or derogatory terms.
Within one week of each event, the judges’ critiques will be available to studio directors through DanceBug.
Videotaping and photography are strictly prohibited during the entire event. All participating dancers authorize the use of their image in photos and video for Niagara International Dance Collective publicity and advertisement purposes. Photos of the event will be available for purchase on DanceBug.
No dangerous props may be used during the competition. General prop set-up cannot exceed the length of the piece. It is the sole responsibility of each studio to ensure that its props are taken on and off stage. The use of paint, glitter, water or powder is not allowed. If you have a routine using something you believe may be an issue, please contact NIDC ahead of time.
NIDC reserves the right to cancel, add or subtract days. Space is limited and studios are accepted on a first come, first served basis. A tentative and final schedule will be sent to each studio prior to the competition date. Changes received after the schedule has been sent out will not be reflected in the program. Dancers and routines must be performed in the order listed in the final schedule unless approved by the NIDC directors. Performing out of the category will result in omission from overall awards.
Anyone attending an NIDC event is expected to conduct themselves in a respectful and responsible manner. We request that studios help maintain a clear backstage area, free from parents and dancers not performing in the competition. All participants are responsible for cleaning their area and properly disposing of garbage. Please be advised that studios will be held responsible for any damages to the venue.
Each competitor may only compete with one studio. Competitors may not compete against themselves. Performers should be ready to perform 60 minutes prior to their scheduled time, should the competition be running ahead of schedule. All routines must report to the backstage manager 5 routines prior to their onstage slot. Any dancer that did not complete their routine will be allowed to re-dance and be re-scored at the discretion of the NIDC staff.
Niagara International Dance Collective is not responsible for injuries sustained while in attendance or participating in one of our events. NIDC is not responsible for lost or stolen property.
The Host Hotel
Weekend is staged inside the Sheraton Fallsview, overlooking the falls — the competition floor, the dressing rooms and your studio's beds all under one roof.
Visit The Sheraton Fallsview