Competition Judging

Competition Scoring is done with a simple method. There will be 4-12 independent judges on the panel. Each judge will score based on the criteria described below. All scores will be fed into a common score tallying system. The final score will be an average score of all independent evaluations.

The panel of  judges include - teachers, scholars, choreographers and dance administrators. We will be transparent of every score to the public. We believe in honesty and accurate analysis of artistic values.  If you need more answers, please feel free to call us.

The following are the main criteria for evaluation.

1. aangika abhinaya - which includes the necessary sthanakas - such as aramandi or proper standing postures of kathak or tribhangs of Odissi; hand gestures; body bendings etc. Basically Anga, Upanga and pratyanga positions with respect to taalam and bhavam will be noticed. - 30 points
2. vaachika abhinaya - a good music, announcement, if possible saying the bols or jathis will be a part of this - 10 points
3. aahaarya Abhinaya -  A full costume is suggested, how ever a practice costume (half saree or an elegant chudidaar)  is sufficient.  Each candidate must be properly bejeweled and must have ankle bells - 10 points
4. saatvika Abhinaya - Portray necessary abhinaya for all the dances. Abhinaya may vary from a simple expression to a complex sanchari bhaava (a story telling) or showcasing of  Navarasa (9 sentiments) or Nayika/nayaka bhavas (hero and Heroines). For junior groups, a simple abhinaya or expressions are sufficient. - 20 points
5. Taal and Laya - Accuracy in rhythm with respect to speed and tempo - 20 points
6. Space usage and over-all presentation - Utilization of area for performing; entry/exits - 10 points

For Groups of 2 and more, additional factors wil be considered

1. Choreography - This will be the mark of a choreographer, which showcases ability of the dance Guru or a choreographer's to portray their pattern-making or story telling or prop-making or different costume making skills. - 25 points
2. Co-ordination-synchronization - This is ability of the dancers to present the geometrical formations, characters of the story-telling or any special poses while dancing. Their synchronization of movements, abhinaya will be observed as a group presentation. - 25 points

ARE YOU UP TO THE MARK, TO FACE  GREAT MINDS OF CLASSICAL DANCE ?

Please note: All audience must have a festival ticket ($20 per day per person in advance purchases) to watch the competition only for FINALS. Thanks for your support.