Glenn Weiss (World Standard Finalist), Geoffrey Fells (Coach and Adjudicator), Nadia Eftedal (Five time World Latin Runner Up) and John Hatton (Coach and Adjudicator) respond to the question, "Is it important what competitions do between dance?"
Glenn Weiss (World Standard Finalist) I don't pay much attention after the dance is over, but I do find it distracting when competitors interact too much with audience members. In particular, I don't like it when facial expressions are overdone or they wink every time they look at the audience or judges.
Geoffrey Fells (Coach and Adjudicator) It's unprofessional when competitors run to the side of the floor, get their towels out and wipe their brow or run around looking for glasses of water. If they're out of condition they shouldn't be dancing. I can understand it in Prof Am, especially the older categories, but these are professionals.
Nadia Eftedal (Five time World Latin Runner Up) It creates an impression. If a couple doesn't know what to do, they pace the floor, they scrape their shoes, they drink water...those things should not be happening. That preparation should be done before the competition. Consciously a judge might not look for it, but there is an impression that the couple should be better prepared.
John Hatton (Coach and Adjudicator) I don't take a whole lot of notice, but the couples shouldn't show distress. For example, if there was a problem in the previous dance it shouldn't show during the break. I think the couples should use the time to regain their composure and get ready for the next dance.
Originally published in Dance Notes by Christine Zona
About the Author:
A health major in college, Christine Zona has always been interested in physical, emotional and mental wellness. She is currently working on combining her dance expertise and healthy lifestyle knowledge to give dancers a lifestyle program that will increase their energy, enhance their performance and reshape their bodies.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the AccessDance Network. Be aware that imagery is copyrighted and often licensed for use on AccessDance only. Copying of images is strictly prohibited.
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