Pom – A pom routine should consist of visually effective pom efforts, whereas, the predominant choreography effects are designed to feature the pom. However, it is important to note that since this is a “dance” competition, it does make sense for teams in pom to dance, with poms in hand. Poms must be used 90% of the time. No other props are permitted. Performance time is 1:45-2:00 minutes.

Jazz – A jazz routine should consist of a well-balanced mixture of difficulty, creativity, and good technique. While having your own style is important, proper technique should always be evident regardless of the style your team chooses to display. Props (other than poms) may be used no more than 10% of the performance time. Performance time is 1:45-2:00 minutes.

Kick – Each routine must have at least 50 kicks, performed by a majority of the team. IHSDTA suggests your routine have more than 50 kicks to ensure meeting the minimum requirements. A kick is defined as one foot remaining on the floor while the other foot lifts with force off of the ground. Any time the leg extends at or above 90 degrees, contracts and extends again at or above 90 degrees, it will be defined as separate kicks. A kick routine should consist of 50 visually effective kick efforts. Body alignment, height, straight legs, pointed toes, proper preparation, and hook up are all-important elements of a successful kick routine. Furthermore, synchronization, creativity, and variety should be displayed with regularity. Props (other than poms) may be used no more than 10% of the performance time. This category is only available in AAA Division. All team sizes can enter. Performance time is 1:45-2:00 minutes.

Hip Hop – Routine should consist of the latest street style/funk dance moves, with tempo variations. Emphasis should be on execution, style, synchronization, body control, creativity, body isolation, and rhythm. Jazz style movements should be kept to a minimum. However, it is important to remember that this is a “dance” competition. No props allowed. Performance time is 1:45-2:00 minutes.

Solo – A solo routine involves one dancer. No boundaries shall be set on musical or dance style. The dancer may use props. No sets or scenery are permitted. Performance time is 1:30-2:00 minutes with floor time being 3:00 minutes. Junior High Solo division is open to students in grades 6 through 8. Junior Solo Division is open to students in grades 9 and 10. Senior Solo division is open to students in grades 11 and 12. The school that the soloist is representing must also be competing in a team category.

Ensemble – This category is divided into two groups for high school teams. Small: 3-4 dancers and Large: 5-7 dancers. Illustrating a routine that may include all styles of dance. The dancers may use props. No sets or scenery are permitted. Performance time allocated is 1:30-2:00 minutes with total floor time being 3:00 minutes. JH Ensemble is not divided into groups. JH ensembles are 2-5 dancers. Dancers are not allowed to enter more than one ensemble or duet. You must first field a competitive team before any ensemble may be entered. The school that the ensemble is representing must also be competing in one team category.

Duos – A duet routine involves two dancers. No boundaries shall be set on musical or dance style. The dancers may use props. No sets or scenery are permitted. Performance time allocated is 1:30-2:00 minutes with floor time being 3:00 minutes. Duet division is open to students in grades 9 through 12. Duets count as an ensemble. No dancer may be in a duet and an ensemble. The school that the duet is representing must also be competing in a team category.

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