SOLO BATTLES RULES & REGULATIONS
1. Category Definition: Solo Battles
The OFF STAGE LIVE Solo Battles are a mixed-style, individual dance competition designed to test musicality, performance and technique in both spotlight and battle formats.
The competition is open to dancers of all backgrounds, styles and experience levels.
To enter the Solo Battles, dancers must:

• Enter individually (no group entries permitted)

• Be non-professional dancers

• Compete within the correct age category and level

• Be available for both spotlight and battle rounds

OFF STAGE LIVE reserves the right to move, refuse or disqualify any entry that does not meet the competition criteria.
2. Age Categories
Dancers must enter the correct age category based on their age at the time of the event.
Age categories:

• Under 12

• Under 16

• 16+

OFF STAGE LIVE may request proof of age at any stage of the competition.
3. Levels
Dancers must enter the correct level based on their training and experience.
Levels:

• Beginner / Novice

• Intermediate / Advanced

OFF STAGE LIVE reserves the right to move dancers to a more appropriate level if required.
4. Competition Format
The Solo Battles consist of two stages:
Stage 1: Spotlight Round

• All dancers perform individually for 30 seconds

• Music is selected on the day

• Dancers must interpret the music in real time

• Judges will select the top 16 dancers from each category and level

Stage 2: Battle Rounds

• Selected dancers progress into head-to-head knockout battles

• Battles continue through elimination rounds (Top 16, Top 8, Top 4, Final)

• The winner is decided in the final round

5. Performance Expectations
Dancers should be prepared to perform to a high standard in both spotlight and battle rounds.
Judges will be looking for dancers who can:

• Demonstrate strong technique and control

• Show musicality and rhythm

• Perform with confidence, energy and presence

• Adapt quickly to different music styles

• Show individuality and creative expression

• Maintain focus and consistency under pressure

6. Judging Criteria
Spotlight Round:

• Musicality and interpretation

• Performance and stage presence

• Creativity and individuality

• Confidence and energy

Battle Rounds:

• Technique and execution

• Control and precision

• Performance under pressure

• Consistency across rounds

All decisions made by the judging panel are final.
7. Judging Panel
A panel of experienced and unaffiliated judges will assess all performances.

• Judges will not score dancers where there is a conflict of interest

• Judges may include professionals from dance, performance, choreography and creative industries

• Feedback may be provided where possible but is not guaranteed

8. Performance Regulations
All performances must be suitable for a family-friendly event.
The following are not permitted:

• Inappropriate gestures

• Explicit or sexualised movement

• Offensive language in music

• Discriminatory, violent or hateful content

• Unsafe or aggressive behaviour towards other dancers

OFF STAGE LIVE reserves the right to stop a performance, deduct marks or disqualify a dancer if rules are not followed.
9. Music Rules

• All music is selected and controlled by OFF STAGE LIVE

• Dancers will not be able to choose or submit music

• Music will vary across styles and genres

• Dancers must adapt to the music provided

10. Costume Rules
Dancers should wear appropriate dancewear that supports performance.
Costumes must be:

• Age-appropriate

• Safe and suitable for movement

• Appropriate for a family audience

Costumes must not include offensive imagery, unsafe accessories or inappropriate styling.
11. Props and Safety
Props are not permitted in Solo Battles.
Dancers must perform without any objects or equipment.
12. Entry Rules

• Each dancer may only enter once per category

• Dancers must be present for the full duration of their category

• Late arrivals may not be able to compete

• Entry is non-transferable without prior approval

13. Live Performance Rules

• Dancers must check in and be ready at least 30 minutes before their category

• Dancers must perform when called

• Failure to attend may result in disqualification

• Dancers must remain respectful backstage and within the battle area

14. Disqualification
A dancer may be disqualified if they:

• Provide false information

• Enter the incorrect category or level knowingly

• Use inappropriate movement or behaviour

• Fail to follow instructions from OFF STAGE staff

• Act in an unsafe or disrespectful manner

OFF STAGE LIVE reserves the right to make final decisions regarding disqualification.
15. Conduct and Respect
OFF STAGE LIVE is committed to creating a positive and supportive environment.
All participants must show respect to:

• Other dancers

• Judges

• Staff

• Audience members

Bullying, intimidation or poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated.
16. Safeguarding

• Dancers under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult

• Teachers, parents or guardians are responsible for supervision

• Any safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately to event staff

17. Photography and Filming
By entering the competition:

• Dancers agree to photography and filming for promotional use

• Parents and guardians must ensure appropriate permissions are in place for under 18s

18. Final Decision
OFF STAGE LIVE reserves the right to:

• Amend rules and categories

• Adjust competition format if required

• Refuse entries or disqualify participants where necessary

All decisions made by OFF STAGE LIVE and the judging panel are final.