CARIBBEAN DANCES

OVERVIEW

Caribbean Dance is a multi-dance discipline where each of the three (3) dances contributes an equal value to the overall placements of the dancers. Each dance is first evaluated on its own merits, and the places for each couple will be determined by using the Skating System. All couples in the final must dance a medley consisting of at least two (2) of the three (3) dances in the discipline. All three (3) dances maybe be used, but no other dances are permitted in these medleys. The Caribbean Show Medley will be judged as one more dance on its own merits. In the event of a tie between couples, the placing in the Caribbean Show Medley will have the higher value.
CARIBBEAN DANCES AND TEMPI
• Salsa 45 - 47 bpm (180 - 188 beats per minute)
• Merengue 29 - 32 bpm (116 - 128 beats per minute)
• Bachata 28 - 32 bpm (112-128 beats per minute)
1. Music: Provided by Organizer for all but the Caribbean Show Medley in the final round, for which couples will supply their own music.
2. Length of Exhibition: Ninety seconds (1-½ minutes) in all rounds except for the Caribbean Show Medley in the final round, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2 minutes 15 seconds.
3. Characteristics and Movement: As described previously for each of these three dances. It is very important that the movements and step combinations are in perfect harmony with the rhythm and character of the music throughout each dance.
4. Costumes: Clothing should follow the developments of new trends in Caribbean Dance style, but should always be in good taste.
5. Lifts: Low lifts are permitted in Salsa and in the final Caribbean Show Medley, but not in the other two dances. Lifts must follow the guidelines listed under GENERAL PROVISIONS III.
6. First Round: In the first dance only, all couples will dance an opening and final minute together. The opening minute provides the judges with an opportunity to discern the overall dance quality of the couples before judging each individual heat. The final minute is used to insure that marks have been awarded to all couples properly.
7. Preliminary & Semi-final Rounds: Up to six (6) couples will dance at the same time in each heat. All couples must perform each dance before the next dance is commenced. Results for each round will be announced before commencing the next round.
8. Final Round: All couples dance at the same time in each dance prior to each couple performing the Caribbean Show Medley as a solo. The placing in the final will be found by using the Skating system over 4 dances. Salsa, Merengue, Bachata and Caribbean Show.
9. Stage Props: Permitted only in the Caribbean Show Medley, and only as outlined under GENERAL PROVISIONS III.