Bachata Open Jack and Jill

Baila District Bachata Jack & Jill – Open Division Sunday, October 18, 2026 Get ready to showcase your social dancing skills! Our Open Division welcomes everyone, including social dancers, students, and instructors. SCHEDULE 7:00 PM – Check-in & Competition - Pick up your competitor number. - Attend the mandatory pre-competition meeting. - Qualifying and semi-final rounds begin. - Results will be announced after each round. 9:30 PM – Final Round - The top 3 leaders and 3 followers advance to the live-audience finale. - Finalists dance with the judges across 3 songs, with no partner switches. COMPETITION FORMAT 1) Qualifying Round: Up to 40 dancers, rotating partners every 30–50 seconds across 3–5 songs. Judges select 5–8 couples to advance. 2) Semi-Final: 5–10 couples dance across 3–5 songs, with partner switches every 30–50 seconds. Judges select 3 leaders and 3 followers for the final. 3) Final: 3 leaders and 3 followers dance with the judges. Leader judges evaluate followers, and follower judges evaluate leaders. JUDGING CRITERIA - Technique: Timing, weight transfer, control, frame, and clean turns. - Connection: Clear lead/follow communication and smooth transitions. - Musicality: Rhythm, musical accents, and adaptability to different Bachata styles. - Social Dance Quality: Adaptability, floor awareness, expression, and the ability to make your partner look good. HOUSE RULES - This is a social dance competition, not a choreography showcase. Prioritize connection, musicality, adaptability, and enjoying the dance together. - The following will not be rewarded: lifts and tricks, unsafe dips, rehearsed choreography-style patterns, ignoring your partner, or overpowering your partner. - Please demonstrate good sportsmanship and respect for all competitors and judges. Judges’ decisions are final. - Most importantly, have fun, connect with your partners, and enjoy social dancing!