Newcomer

As the name implies this is the format for people new to J&J’s. It is however not for beginners and you should be fairly comfortable dancing in both roles. For most people this would be equivalent to 1 year of experience dancing both roles. 

To succeed in this format as a participant, you should show that you have solid fundamentals and have mastered basic bachata timing, technique in both roles and that you can work as a team. The judges will be looking for the following:

Timing

The basic bachata rhythm and timing of step-step-step-tap should be should come naturally in both roles. When switching roles you can adjust the timing, and if you get off-time you can recover quickly. You also understand basic bachata song structure. i.e. intro, derecho (verse), majao (chorus), and mambo/bridges, and know which techniques are appropriate in which sections.

Technique

For role rotation this means being able to execute clean basics, turns, and body movement with control in both lead and follow roles. This includes having a comfortable frame, grounded steps, and clear weight transfers. As a leader, you can prepare correctly and your signals should be smooth, safe, and easy to interpret; as a follower, your responsiveness and body mechanics should allow you to adapt without anticipating, and you hold your own balance during dips and similar techniques. When switching you know both how to give and steal the lead.

Teamwork

Bachata is a partner dance, so you have to be able to match the energy of the person you’re dancing with and work as a team. Furthermore you should be able to connect with your with dance partner visually and physically. In RoleRotation this is especially important as you’re switching between both roles and don’t want to be fighting for control.

Novice (Open)

This is the format for advanced dancers, teachers and dance professionals.

While we expect this level is typically achieved with at least 2 years of experience dancing both roles, our judging panel reserve the right to provide a reccomendation to the level that is best for you.

To succeed in this format you have mastered the timing, technique and teamwork aspects mentioned in the newcomer division. In addition judges will also focus on variety, musicality and showmanship as well.

Entry requirements:

Newcomer – No points in the Switch/Role rotation category & no teachers and professionals

Novice – Open for everybody