TIME LIMITS & AGE CATEGORY

Time Limits:

Age Calculation:

Ages are calculated as of **December 31st** of the previous year (e.g., Dec. 31, 2025). Decimal points are dropped for average age calculation (e.g., 11.8 years is 11 years).

• **Solo:** Based on dancer's age.
• **Duo/Trio & Groups:** Based on the average age of the dancers.

MUSIC, PROPS & CONTENT

Music Submission:

Music must be uploaded to **DanceBUG at least 3 weeks before** the competition. Late submissions require Director approval and incur a $2.50 fee. Music must be edited precisely (start to finish).

Family-Friendly Content:

Music, choreography, and costumes must be appropriate for all audiences. Explicit lyrics, violence, or inappropriate content will lead to adjudication but **exclusion from awards** and overall placements.

Prohibited Props:

Dangerous items such as fire, fireworks, swords, knives, or weapons are **strictly prohibited**. Breaking Bounds reserves the right to restrict any prop based on venue guidelines.

• Large props must be noted on the DanceBUG registration form.
• Studios are responsible for the orderly loading/unloading of props.

PERFORMANCE & PENALTIES

Timing Penalties:

Exceeding the maximum time limit incurs a **1-point deduction** for every 5 seconds over (unless pre-approved). Additional time can be purchased.

Re-Dancing Policy:

• **Mini/Novice/Part-Time:** May re-dance and receive an award, but may be ineligible for overalls.
• **Junior/Teen/Senior Competitive:** Re-dancing means *ineligibility* for placement or overalls (comments only).
• Re-dancing due to technical difficulties is allowed without penalty.

Other Penalties:

Tap sounds on recordings of tap routines will result in a **5-point deduction**.

BACKSTAGE & VENUE ETIQUETTE

Backstage Access:

Only Studio Directors, Dancers, and Teachers are permitted backstage. Parents are **not allowed**. Dancers must be ready to perform 2 hours before schedule and may wait backstage for up to 5 numbers before their routine.

Prohibited Filming:

No photography or videography by audience members is allowed during performances. Violation may result in disqualification.

Venue Responsibility:

Studios are responsible for keeping dressing areas clean. Abuse of competition spaces (dressing rooms, etc.) may lead to disqualification. No negativity or booing will be tolerated.