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syllabus (au+nz)
*Current from 1st feb 2025 - 31st jan 2026

1. General Information

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  • ​ *Age cut offs for ALL categories is 1st January 2025. In the event the performer is born ON the 1st of January, they will be moved up an age category. For example, if they were 7 years old, but turned 8 ON the 1st January 2025, they will enter 8-9 Years Solos, Duos, Trios.

  • Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to run up to 1 x hour AHEAD of schedule. Performers should always check in with our front desk a minimum of 1 x hour before their scheduled start time unless you are due to perform at 8am (you can arrive by 730am).

  • If there are dates listed in our 'Regionals' that are during school term time, we endeavour to do our best to operate after school. Sometimes this isn't possible, and we need to run the event during school time. If that does happen, we will first program primary school aged children and high school students after school.

  • Full payment is preferred, but partial payment is available. To secure your entries, a $92 deposit is required for Solos, $102 for Duos and Trios and $72 for Groups, at the time of entry

  • Evolution Dance Competition does not support the solicitation of students from other studios at its events, and reports surrounding this could result in studios being banned from future events.

  • Competitors enter at their own risk. Evolution Dance Competition accepts NO responsibility for an accident or injury to any persons associated with the event, either as a Competitor, Volunteer, or a member of the General Public, at any time

  • Competition Director/s can overrule any of the below rules at any time. The Competition Director/s shall decide on any matter not covered by these rules and its decision on any questions or dispute shall be final

  • There cannot be any prompting, whistling, etc during any performance to ‘coach’ the entrant

  • Privacy is paramount to Evolution Dance Competition. We will not distribute any information of our entrants to any third party

  • By submitting your entry, you agree to receive marketing emails from Evolution Dance Competition, from time to time.

  • We will not publish any results with scores on any social media site

  • Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to change competition days or move location due to unforeseen circumstances and entries will not be refunded

  • The plea of lack of knowledge of the rules will not be accepted as a bona-fide reason for the infringement of any rule

  • The use of photos/videos for marketing purposes is granted to Evolution Dance Competition upon receipt of a paid entry

2. judge

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  • If a Judge is unable to perform his/her duties, Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to appoint a new Judge without notice

  • The Judges decision is final. Please do not speak to the Judge at any time during the competition

3. Admittance

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  • We reserve the right to refuse entry to any person

  • Mobile phones must be switched off when entering the auditorium

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  • Entry fees (per session) are FREE (unless otherwise stated):

    • Concession/Pension: FREE

    • Children: FREE

    • Adults: FREE

4. Age Groups

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*Age cut offs for ALL categories is 1st January 2025. Please refer to 1. General Information for an elaborate explanation of this.

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*The group/duo/trio age limit is governed by the ELDEST member.

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*  Groups we will allow 2 x performers above the age cut off, however, it is limited to 1 x year older. For example, you have 8 x 8 year olds and 2 x 9 years old - this IS allowed and can perform in 8&U. If you have a 10 x year old, they would need to be in 10&U

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Groups:

  • 6 & Under

  • 8 & Under

  • 10 & Under

  • 12 & Under

  • 14 & Under

  • 16 & Under

  • Open Age

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Open & Novice Solos:

  • 5 & Under

  • 6-7 Years

  • 8-9 Years

  • 10-11 Years

  • 12-13 Years

  • 14-15 Years

  • 16-20 Years

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Open Solos ONLY:​

  • 21 Years & Over

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Duos/Trios (Open only. No novice sections):

  • 5 & Under

  • 6-7 Years

  • 8-9 Years

  • 10-11 Years

  • 12-13 Years

  • 14-15 Years

  • 16-20 Years

  • 21 Years & Over

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High School Groups:

  • Grade 9 & Under

  • Grade 12 & Under​

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Primary School Groups:

  • Grade 3 & Under

  • Grade 6 & Under​

5. Group Sections

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*Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to combine Small, Large and Full Time Groups where there are few in the section, HOWEVER, this is not always guaranteed to happen. 

 

*Open Age Groups ONLY – Studios who offer Full Time courses AND compete with that specific cohort in Open Age Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary and Any Style sections, will be listed as FULL TIME or NON FULL TIME in the program. Full Time and Non Full Time studios will compete in the section together (ie Open Age Jazz Large Group), however, will be judged and places awarded separately. This is NEW and will be reviewed at the end of the 2025 season.

 

When Studios do registrations for Open Age Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary or Any Style Groups, a drop-down box will appear for you to select FULL TIME or NON FULL TIME.

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*Competitor Passes are COMPULSORY for all performers, including School Groups. Please refer to section 11. Regional Entry Fees for more information.

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​Small Group (4-14 performers)

 

  • Any Style

  • Contemporary

  • Jazz

  • Lyrical

 

Large Group (15+ Performers)

 

  • Any Style

  • Contemporary

  • Jazz

  • Lyrical

 

 Group (4 performers minimum – no maximum performers)

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  • Acrobatics

  • Ballet

  • Broadway Jazz

  • Dance Abilities – Any Style

  • Dance Abilities – Contemporary or Lyrical

  • Dance Abilities – Hip Hop or Jazz

  • Demi Character

  • Hip Hop

  • Musical Theatre

  • Neo Classical

  • Song and Dance

  • Song and Tap

  • Tap

  • High School – Jazz

  • High School – Hip Hop

  • High School – Contemporary

  • High School – Lyrical

  • High School – Any Style

  • High School – Production

  • Primary School – Jazz or Hip Hop

  • Primary School - Any Style

  • Primary School – Lyrical or Contemporary

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  • Production Group* - (minimum 10 performers)

6. CATEGORIES

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  • ​ Acrobatics

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

Choreography containing acrobatic/gymnastic technique.

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  • Any Style

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups – Small & Large)

Can perform any style of dance (cannot repeat dance from another category).

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  • BALLET OR VARIATION

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & ballet only for Groups)

Ballet - Choreography must contain ballet technique and steps. 

Variation - Can be a performance from any well-known ballet.

Pointe shoes are optional

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  • Broadway Jazz

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

Should contain jazz technique with a cabaret style (e.g., Fosse, Rockettes). Song suggestions: Dreamgirls, I Want To Be A Rockette, Sweet Charity, Chicago.

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  • Contemporary - COMMERCIAL

(Solos – Novice & Open)

Choreography containing interpretive dance using balance and control. Should be innovative and use cutting edge themes.

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  • Contemporary - TRADITIONAL

(Solos – Novice & Open)

Choreography that uses classically based foundation training.

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  • Contemporary - DUO/Trio & groups (small & large)

Choreography containing interpretive dance using balance and control.

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  • Dance Abilities -Any Style

(Solos + DUO/Trio + Groups)

Performers with Special Needs. At least 50% of the performers (for Duos/Trios/Groups) would have Special Needs in order to satisfy the category. The focus should be on the performers with Special Needs and not the mainstream performers. Can also have a teacher on stage to assist if needed.

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  • Dance Abilities – Contemporary or Lyrical

(Solos + DUO/Trio + Groups)

Performers with Special Needs. At least 50% of the performers (for Duos/Trios/Groups) would have Special Needs in order to satisfy the category. The focus should be on the performers with Special Needs and not the mainstream performers. Can also have a teacher on stage to assist if needed.

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  • Dance Abilities – Hip Hop or Jazz

(Solos + DUO/Trio + Groups)

Performers with Special Needs. At least 50% of the performers (for Duos/Trios/Groups) would have Special Needs in order to satisfy the category. The focus should be on the performers with Special Needs and not the mainstream performers. Can also have a teacher on stage to assist if needed.

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  • Demi Character

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

Demi character must involve or resemble a character dance that uses classical technique as a basis for interpretation. Pointe shoes and props are optional.

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  • Evo Elites

(National Finals Only)

(Solos - Open Only)

This category is only for performers who reached Top 10 at their Regional event. They can perform any style of dance at National Finals.

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  • Hip Hop

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/TriO & Groups)

Choreography containing the foundations of hip hop / jazz funk.

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  • Jazz

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups – Small & Large)

Choreography containing movements based on Jazz Technique.

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  • Lyrical

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups – Small & Large)

Choreography containing expressive movements through interpretation of the chosen song. Must demonstrate balance, flexibility, and control.

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  • Musical Theatre

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

live presentation from a stage or film musical. Can include singing, dialogue, and dance. Some backing vocals permitted. Portraying a character/acting and should be animated.
This genre is more acting / miming / theatrical vs JUST dancing

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  • Neo Classical

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

Choreography with emphasis on ballet movement with minimal costume design and stage scenery. Pointe is allowed. This is not to be confused with Lyrical or Contemporary, as they have their own sections.

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  • PRODUCTION

(Group only)

Can incorporate all styles of dance. Minimum of 10 dancers, of any age. Maximum time of 6 minutes.

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  • Song and Dance

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

50% dance (soft shoe) and 50% vocal - no backing vocals in the song portion

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  • Song and Tap

(Solos – Novice & Open) + (DUO/Trio & Groups)

50% dance (tap) and 50% vocal - no backing vocals in the song portion

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  • Specialty Tap

(Solos – Novice & Open & Duo/Trio ONLY)

Choreography consisting of tap technique, within the styles of Speed, Waltz, Street & Medley. Can also include Latin Taps such as Cha Cha, Tango, Samba or Rumba.

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  • Straight Tap (TAP)

(Solos – Novice & Open & Open & Duo/Trio ONLY) + (Will be called "Tap" for Groups)

Solo/Duo/Trio: Choreography consisting of tap technique Group: Choreography consisting of tap technique, to your chosen style

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  • Student Choreography

(Solos – Novice & Open & Duo/Trio ONLY)

Can perform any style. Needs to be choreographed by the entrant only, and no teacher assistance.

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  • Vocal

(Solos – Novice & Open & Duo/Trio ONLY)

A Vocal solo can contain some backing vocals (no dance). Using a microphone (supplied by us) is optional.

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  • High School Groups – Jazz

Choreography containing movements based on Jazz Technique.

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  • High School Groups – Hip Hop

Choreography containing the foundations of hip hop / jazz funk.

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  • High School Groups – Contemporary

Choreography containing interpretive dance using balance and control.

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  • High School Groups – Lyrical

Choreography containing expressive movements through interpretation of the chosen song. Must demonstrate balance, flexibility, and control.

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  • High School Groups – Any Style

Can perform any style of dance (cannot repeat dance from another category).

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  • High School Groups – Production

Can incorporate all styles of dance. Minimum of 10 dancers. Maximum time of 6 minutes.

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  • Primary School Groups – Any Style

Can perform any style of dance (cannot repeat dance from another category).

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  • Primary School Groups – Jazz or Hip Hop

Choreography containing movements based on Jazz Technique OR Choreography containing the foundations of hip hop / jazz funk

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  • Primary School Groups – Lyrical or Contemporary

Choreography containing expressive movements through interpretation of the chosen song. Must demonstrate balance, flexibility, and control OR Choreography containing interpretive dance using balance and control

7. CONDITION OF ENTRY**

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NOVICE SOLOS:

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  •  Any competitor who has NOT won 1st Place in a Novice or unclassified section (with 5 or more performers) at Evolution or any other competition, 2 weeks BEFORE the Evolution event

    • IMPORTANT NOTE - In 2024, if you placed 1st with 3 or more in the section at Evolution or any other competition, you would move up to Open for 2025.  This is correct and does not change. For 2025, we have amended this rule slightly and increased the section to 5 or more performers. A reminder, if you received 1st Place in 2024, (This includes National Finals 2025 as it is the conclusion of  our 2024 Season)  you MUST still go to Open for 2025, you do not get to stay in Novice because we amended the rule. This rule is for performers competing in Novice for 2025.

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  • Any competitor who has NOT previously danced in an Intermediate/Open section at Evolution or any other competition

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  • Novice sections are for beginners and entries rely 100% on honesty from entrants, and everyone knows someone, meaning if you aren’t eligible, please do NOT enter Novice Sections

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  • Please note, if you are entering Evolution for the first time but have been competing in Open sections and are clearly not at a novice level please enter the open sections. Novice is intended for dancers with less experience and/or confidence​

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  • A 1st place win in a Novice section will only be noted on Evolutions records when there are 5 or more competitors in the section. For example, if there are 2 x performers in the section, 1st place will NOT need to go up to Open because there were less than 5 people in the category

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  • You CANNOT enter Open sections AND Novice sections. It is Novice (if eligible) OR Open for ALL entries. For example, if you are eligible and enter 6-7 Years Novice Lyrical, you CANNOT enter 6-7 Years Open Jazz and vice versa.​

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  • If you receive 1st Place at an Evolution event during the 2025 season, and do NOT enter any other Evolution events in that same year, you KEEP your Novice status for National Finals (if you choose to attend). Please remember, National Finals is a conclusion to Evolutions season.

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  • If a Novice performer enters 2 x Evolution REGIONALS in the current season and wins 1st place at the first Evolution event, they must move up to open for the remainder of the Evolution season. For example, if you enter our Sydney 1 Regional event in a Novice section and receive 1st place, you must move up to open sections for the next Regional event and National Finals.

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  • If a performer wins the 6-7 Years Novice Lyrical section, this carries forward when you move to the next age category (8-9 Years for example), meaning it does NOT reset just because you move up an age group

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  • The Top 10 Highest Scoring NOVICE performers from each age category at all Evolution Regionals will be announced as our "EVO Apprentice" nominees, eligible to enter the "EVO Apprentice Championships" at National Finals

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*If you feel someone has entered Novice in error and should be in Open, you can email us (confidentially) so we can investigate and rectify, HOWEVER, you must have supporting evidence. My team will NOT action your email without this.

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We are constantly reviewing our policies, but please note we have implemented these guidelines to ensure we are being fair to everyone and remove any messiness (administratively). Remember, Novice entries rely 100% on honesty from entrants, and everyone knows someone, meaning if you aren’t eligible, please do NOT enter as you run the risk of being disqualified

8. Critiques:

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  • Audio/Video critiques will be uploaded to your account and available for viewing in the WE Developments app.

9. backstagE

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• All entrants must be backstage at least 5 acts PRIOR to their scheduled performance (approximately 15 minutes before your routine)​

• There is to be no congregating in the wings during a performance on stage
• All entrants and associated parties must always follow the direction of backstage crew
• Noise must be kept a minimum

10. Dressing Rooms:

  • All entrants are to change in the allocated changing rooms ONLY

  • Dressing rooms will be allocated at the beginning of each day. Please remember to respect each other’s space and personal belongings. Any bad sportsmanship will result in disqualification

  • Please ensure all dressing rooms are tidy at the end of the day. Any messy changing rooms will result in a cleaning fee (payable by the entrants who shared the dressing room) up to $200

  • Any entrant found to have caused damage to the dressing room will be charged the relevant repair costs. If existing damage is found within the dressing room, please notify the Competition Director/s immediately

  • Photos will be taken of each dressing room at the beginning of each day; if any damage has been found by the relevant entrants, a repair fee may be requested

  • Tap shoes must be always covered when not performing

  • There are to be NO photos or videos taken INSIDE the dressing rooms. This space is for changing. Please take photos in front of the media wall or elsewhere.

11. Regionals Entry Fees (AU & NZ)

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  • $52 AUD per solo routine

  • $62 AUD per duo/trio routine

  • $72 AUD per group routine (same price for Small Group and Large Group and Groups)

  • $40 AUD Competitor Pass compulsory for each entrant - Dance Studio Solos, Duos, Trios, Groups

  • $20 AUD Competitor Pass compulsory for each entrant – School Groups ONLY

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*ALL Performers MUST have a competitor pass please; this includes Group performers. If you enter solos/duos/trios and pay for a competitor pass, it ALSO covers you for Groups.

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*If you are participating in a Solos, Duo, Trio or Dance Studio Group, you will pay a $40 competitor pass and do NOT need to pay for a School Group competitor pass

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**In the event of a withdrawal from a regional event, the performer (or parents) must notify Evolution Dance Competition no later than 2 weeks PRIOR to the event taking place and if we are able to replace the routine/s entered, we will refund 50% of the entry/s minus any fees.  This is subject solely to the Director/s discretion.

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*All entries include the following items:
• Digital program
• Video/Audio critique
• FREE door entry for spectators
• Dedicated Backstage Manager
• Dedicated Events Manager
• Dedicated Sound Technician
• Custom Made Medals
• Technical and professional judges, providing specific feedback on what to work on

12. PART PAYMENT CONDITIONS

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  • Evolution offers part payment option for ALL regional and National Finals events

  • The minimum payment that can be made for Solos is $92, then for Duos/Trios it is $102, and for Groups will be $72 (for Regionals) and $150 (for Nationals)

  • If minimum payment is NOT made at time of entering the competition, your entries are NOT secure and will be removed

  • Full payment is required 6 x weeks PRIOR to the event taking place. If not paid in full by this date, your entries will NOT be programmed, and all monies paid will be forfeited

  • Regular payments will need to be made so that we can see you are actively paying off your entries

  • No refunds will be given for change of mind (part payment or otherwise)

13. ENTRIES

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  • Entries close when competition is FULL, so please enter as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. Entries that have NOT been paid for will not be accepted until payment has been received

  • Entries can only be made via our ONLINE system and payment can be made via credit card.  Please note, a small surcharge will be applied upon checkout.  Entries cannot be submitted or paid for any other way

  • Small Groups must have a minimum of 4 performers and maximum of 14 performers

  • Large Groups must have a minimum of 15 performers and there is no maximum

  • Any false information provided to the Evolution Dance Competition will result in immediate disqualification, upon investigation

  • No pre-recorded tapping sounds are permitted in tap routines

  • In the case of a dispute arising in respect of the age of any competitor and his/her eligibility to appear in any age grouping, the committee reserves the right to require the production of a birth certificate or formal form of proof of age from that competitor

  • All competitors in Song & Dance or Song & Tap Group routines must participate in both Song and Dance and Song and Tap portions of the performance

  • Competitor pass is compulsory for EVERY entrant

  • In addition to ticking the ‘checked’ box upon registration (which agrees to our terms and conditions as outlined in the Syllabus), a completed entry and payment will also confirm you have agreed to all terms and conditions made by Evolution Dance Competition

  • You cannot repeat any routine throughout the one event, unless at the request of the Competition Director

  • It is the responsibility of the entrant/parent/guardian that all entries have been submitted correctly and honestly

  • No vocal backing is permitted in Song & Dance or Song & Tap sections in the vocal portion of the routine

  • Competitors must have ‘taps’ attached to their shoes in all items where tapping is performed. Failure to do so will mean disqualification. Backstage personnel have the authority to inspect all shoes

  • The group/duo/trio age limit is governed by their eldest member.  Moving forward you can again have 2 x older performers dance down an age group.  These 2 x performers may only be 1 year older.

  • Duo/Trio entrants can only perform once in a section, unless it is with a different partner

  • Soloists can only enter a MAX of 5 routines. This is per performer, per event

  • Groups can perform a maximum of 4 times in the one section (i.e., Studio A, Studio B, Studio C and Studio D in the Open Jazz)

  • *In the event of a withdrawal from a regional event, the performer (or parents) must notify Evolution Dance Competition no later than 2 weeks PRIOR to the event taking place and if we are able to replace the routine/s entered, we will refund 50% of the entry/s minus any fees. This is subject solely to the Director/s discretion

14. REFUNDS AND TRANSFERS

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  • In the event of a withdrawal from a regional event, the performer (or parents) must notify Evolution Dance Competition no later than 2 weeks PRIOR to the event taking place and IF we are able to replace the routine/s entered with someone from the waitlist, we will refund 50% of the entry/s minus any fees.  This is subject solely to the Director/s discretion.

  • No refunds will be given for change of mind (part payment or otherwise)

  • We do not offer transfers or credits at ANY TIME

  • In the event of a withdrawal from National Finals, there will be NO refunds offered as we finalise the prizes, etc at least 2 months prior to the event taking place (unlike Regionals)

  • In the event of an injury (NOT sickness), discretion MAY be given by the Evolution Director, however, proof of the injury must be given

15. MUSIC

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  • All music, lyrics and dance attire MUST be age appropriate. If the judge or the Director deem any music, lyrics or dance attire to be inappropriate, points can be deducted and/or the performer disqualified.

  • All music to be uploaded through the WeDevelopments portal

  • Although your music has been uploaded online, entrants must check in with our registration team 60 minutes before your SECTION starts

  • Time limits are the maximum allowed and will be counted from the moment the music or dialogue begins. If performers go over this, you will receive a 5-point deduction. This rule will be ENFORCED

  • Entrants must understand and adhere to copyright responsibilities. Evolution Dance Competition will not be held responsible for any infringement of copyright, royalty or privacy laws by individual performers or persons associated with the performance

  • Please be sure to have a backup of your music if we need it. (Backup on another USB, or phone/laptop etc.)

16. PERFORMANCE

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  • While tights are NOT compulsory at Evolution Dance Competition, points can be deducted for inappropriate costume/attire. It is in the best interest of the performer to try their costume on BEFORE the competition takes place to ensure it still fits

  • A parent/guardian/competitor must check in with front of house, so we know you are performing. This is to be done 1 x hour prior to performance, unless starting at 8am (7.30am check in will be fine)

  • If the competitor leaves the stage at any time, they can perform again, however, they will only receive the video/audio critique and will not be eligible for a placing. This rule is at the discretion of the organiser and is subject to the circumstance at the time

  • No competitor will be penalised for technical difficulties

  • Entrants must remain on the stage throughout their performances. I.e, no jumping off the stage, etc

  • House curtains will not be drawn, and stage lights will not be dimmed in between performances

  • Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to terminate a performance/routine at any time, at its own discretion

  • If something happens to the music while the competitor is on stage (music skips, or it is the wrong cut etc.), then the competitor is allowed to bow and exit the stage mid performance. They can then perform again later in the section, without being penalised.

17. PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO

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  • No photography or video in any dressing rooms or whilst the performers are on stage; this will result in instant disqualification

  • On receipt of a paid entry, you agree that the performer will be photographed and videoed

  • DANCEvision.tv will be taking photos and video of ALL competitors for purchase. Please see a DANCEvision.tv representative with any questions.

18. PROGRAM

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  • Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to run up to 1 x hour AHEAD of schedule. Performers should always check in with our front desk a minimum of 1 x hour before their scheduled start time unless you are due to perform at 8am (you can arrive by 730am).

  • An Age Schedule will be released as soon as practical. The age schedule defines what age groups are on which day

  • A draft timetable is usually available online, no later than 3 weeks prior to the event for entrants/parents/guardians to check. You will have 1 week from the date the draft timetable is available to request any changes. A FINAL timetable will then be released soon after. No changes can be made to the program once the final copy has been sent

  • We reserve the right to divide items with excessive numbers and combine group sections (ie Jazz Small and Jazz Large) where there are low entries, HOWEVER, this is not always guaranteed to happen 

  • Evolution Dance Competition has the right to amend the program at any time, if necessary

  • Sections will be divided into 2 (two) separate sections if there are 20 or more entries in that section

19. PRIZES AND AWARDS

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  • Soloists and Duos/Trios will receive a medal for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and at the adjudicator's discretion, a Special Mention may also be awarded

  • Groups will receive a flag for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, and each participant of the group will receive an Evolution pin, and at the adjudicator's discretion, a Special Mention may also be awarded. 1st place groups, for each section, will also receive Evolution dollars, to the value of $50.  These Evolution dollars can be used for entries, Regionals/National Finals, or to purchase merchandise

  • Prizes can only be collected at the event and will not be posted, subject to the Competition Director/s discretion

  • If a prize handed to an entrant is unwanted, it is at the sole discretion of the Competition Director/s to select another recipient, move the prize to another event, or not hand it out at all

  • All 5 & Under performers will receive one special prize for performing at our event/s (Regionals ONLY)

  • On occasion, gift vouchers will be given at the adjudicator's discretion

  • Any props that require any form of power must be tested and tagged within the date of the competition

  • Eligibility for prizes, video/audio critique, etc will be based on the acceptance of these terms and conditions. A submitted and paid for entry will constitute acceptance of these terms.

20. PROPS

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  • Props can be used; however, it is the entrant’s responsibility to place them in the allocated prop area, label them correctly, and bring them on/off stage throughout the competition

  • Safety is paramount in the use of props. Evolution Dance Competition do not take responsibility for any injuries caused using props.

  • Any props that require any form of power must be tested and tagged within the date of the competition.

  • Any props left over at the conclusion of the event, will be placed in the bin.

  • Free standing props with a 45 second time allowance for preparation is permitted.

  • All props must be removed immediately after competitor has finished the item.

21. SCORES

 

  • Technique (50%)

How the dancer demonstrates correct technique with the selected genre
 

  • Performance & Execution (25%)

How the dancer executes spacing, timing and precision; Also how they emulate to the music with the giving movement and with the correct energy

 

  • CHOREOGRAPHY (20%)

How the choreography uses the stage, music, and the talent of the dancer. Needs to show creativity

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  • COSTUME & MUSIC (5%)

This score will result in deduction only. Costume and music needs to appropriately match the music and style in a tasteful way

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*In the event of a tied score, Evolution Dance Competition reserves the right to break the placings in order of (the higher) technique score, performance, and choreography. 

22. Safety

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  • Bullying, including inappropriate comments or actions will NOT be tolerated by Evolution Dance Competition and will result in instant disqualification, and/or the patron being removed from the event, upon investigation. The Director reserves the right to ban any person/s from the event and any future events if deemed necessary

  • Evolution Dance Competition will not be held responsible for any injuries sustained by any entrant throughout the event

  • No harmful agents eg fire, water, smoke etc will be allowed on stage

  • All equipment used on the competition premises must be ‘tested and tagged’ by a certified electrician. This also includes hair straighteners

  • Children under the age of 16 are discourages from sitting in the first 4 rows of the stage without an adult.

  • Only competitors in the section will be allowed side stage at any time. (This rule does not apply in 5 & Under, Dance Abilities, and Groups sections)

  • The competitor will follow all directions and set rules stated by the competition organiser or persons authorised by them and waives any claims for liability against any organiser, (whether an Associate or Individual), participant, official, steward, judge, visitor, employee, or invitee (the “Participants”) and releases the participants from all liability that may arise out of the competition, to the competitor. Such liability shall include any personal injury, property loss or damage

  • Evolution Dance Competition will have a minimum of one First Aid Officer present at the event, with a first aid kit including ice packs.

23. Time Limits:

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  • Solos 11 Years & Below

2.5 minutes

 

  • Solos 12 Years & Above, Vocal Solos, Duos/Trios

3 minutes

 

  • Musical Theatre, Song and Dance, Song and Tap

4 minutes

 

  • Groups

4 minutes

 

  • Production Groups

6 minutes

 

  • Evo Elites

4 minutes

24. QUALIFYING FOR NATIONALS

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  • Now that we have implemented Novice AND Open sections at Evolution, everyone that attends either an in-person Regional or Online heat WILL automatically qualify for National Finals. You no longer need to receive a score of 80 or above.

  • We have done this as our aim is to provide a National Finals EXPERIENCE to ALL levels of dancers, BUT working hard is STILL important for the following reason;

  • The Top 10 Highest Scoring OPEN soloists for each age category at Regionals and Online will be eligible to enter EVO Elite at National Finals

  • The Top 10 Highest Scoring NOVICE performers for each age category at Regionals and Online will be eligible to enter EVO Apprentice at National Finals

25. FINALS ENTRY FEES

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  • $TBC AUD per solo routine

  • $TBC AUD for EVO Elite and EVO Apprentice routine

  • $TBC AUD per duo/trio routine

  • $TBC AUD per group routine (same price for Small Group and Large Group)

  • $TBC AUD Competitor Pass compulsory for each entrant

26. National Finals Information:

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  • EVO Elite and/or EVO Apprentice 1st Place winners can also perform in all sections at Regionals and National Finals, although are not eligible for EVO Elite or EVO Apprentice qualification for the 1 year immediately following the 1st Place win

  • All EVO Elite 1st Place winners will be invited to perform a hand-over dance at National Finals the following year

  • Groups can enter as many routines as they want into Finals, as long as they have entered and qualified with 5 routines at one of our regional events (ie 5 x Groups performed and qualified at Regionals, and now you can take unlimited Groups to Finals)

  • Duo/Trios can enter an EXTRA 3 routines into Finals in addition to the qualified routines from Regionals (ie 2 x Duo/Trios performed and qualified at Regionals, and now you can take 5 x Duo/Trios to Finals)

  • Soloists can enter an EXTRA 3 ROUTINES for National Finals. I.e., if you performed and qualified with 3 routines at regionals, you could enter an extra 3 routines on top for National Finals that didn't qualify, or you didn't perform at regionals

  • In the event of a withdrawal from National Finals, there will be NO refunds offered as we finalise the prizes, etc at least 2 months prior to the event taking place (unlike Regionals)

  • Entries for Nationals will open from Monday 19th May 2025

  • National Finals will be held at the RACV Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast from Tuesday 7th January 2026 – Wednesday 14th January 2026

  • Age cut off for Finals will be as of 1st January 2025 (same as Regionals). For example, if you competed in the 6-7 Years at Regionals this year, then you will perform in that same age category at National Finals in January 2026

  • Performers must enter at least 2 x solo routines into National Finals to do EVO Elite and EVO Apprentice. I.e, you cannot just enter EVO Elite or EVO Apprentice and no other sections.

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Important Information for Nationals 2026:

Wednesday 7th January 2026

  • Info Session

  • Evolution front desk will open for questions, EVO Elite/EVO Apprentice shirt collection and merchandise

 

Thursday 8th January 2026

  • EVO Elite routines - all ages

  • Solos, Duos, Trios – age schedule will be released end of October 2025

 

Friday 9th January 2026

  • EVO Apprentice routines – all ages

  • Solos, Duos, Trios – age schedule will be released end of October 2025

 

Saturday 10th January 2026

  • Solos, Duos, Trios - age schedule will be released end of October 2025

  • Groups - performers to arrive onsite (all ages)

 

Sunday 11th January 2026

  • Hip Hop Day – Solos, Duos, Trios and Groups – all ages

  • Solos, Duos, Trios – age schedule will be released end of October 2025

  • Groups - – age schedule will be released end of October 2025

 

Monday 12th January 2026

  • Solos, Duos, Trios – age schedule will be released end of October 2025

  • Groups – age schedule will be released end of October 2025

 

Tuesday 13th January 2026

  • Solos, Duos, Trios - age schedule will be released end of October 2025

  • Groups - age schedule will be released end of October 2025

  • EVO After Party (free for all performers)

 

Wednesday 14th January 2026

  • EVO Elite Rehearsal Junior & Senior - times TBC as part of age schedule end of October 2025

  • Grand Final Junior Show - 11am - 2.30pm - times TBC as part of age schedule end of October 2025

  • Grand Final Senior Show - 3pm - 530pm - times TBC as part of age schedule end of October 2025

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27. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Still have questions? Please check out our FAQ page to find answers to the most commonly asked questions.

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VISIT FAQ PAGE

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