Using dance as a means to recreate our spirit, body, and mind in the after effects of the pandemic, this year’s theme centers around the symbolism of the Japanese art, Kintsugi as an inspiration towards redefining beauty and showcasing positive body image & mental health.

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The healing art of dance is as old as mankind. We all have broken pieces - it’s how we mend them together that elicits resiliency and strength. In this virtual series, dancers will explore mental health and body image through the lens of self care and new found resiliency and strength.

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Through a community dialogue and movement based exercises, the following questions will be addressed to cultivate choreographic inspirations:

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1. What are the cultural norms of beauty in America?

2. How does one’s personal identity, shape, age, gender, size, and skin tone impact success and happiness?

3. How do we measure happy?

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Dancers who wish to submit a solo of original choreography must register online by 1/22 and attend four workshops. These workshops are being offered by experts in supporting positive body image & mental health, choreography, collaborative elements, & video performance.

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The virtual workshops are January 23, February 6, 27 & March 13 from 4:00-5:00pm EST. There will be a bonus virtual choreographic feedback hour on March 27. A zoom link will be sent out the day of each workshop. Video files must be submitted online by April 10 for adjudication. DDEO will announce the finalists and host a Virtual Showcase on April 30 to share the performances of the Top 25 and announce the winners in each division. Cash prizes will be offered to the winners!

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Details:

* Any style of dance.

* Solos must be 2 minutes in length.

* Dancers 12 years and older allowed to participate. (All participants must sign a waiver when they submit their video.)

* Videos DUE 4/10!

 

All solos will be adjudicated by a panel of nationally recognized dancers, teachers, and choreographers.

 

The top 25 solos will be presented at the Virtual Showcase on 4/30 and winners will be announced. Prizes for 1st & 2nd place winners and more!

All solos will be adjudicated by a panel of nationally recognized dancers, teachers, and choreographers.

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Please follow these steps in order to have your solo considered for adjudication:

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Step One: Click here to register, pay and reserve your spot to be adjudicated by 1/22.

Step Two: Attend the virtual workshops January 23, February 6, 27 & March 13 from 4:00-5:00pm EST. A zoom link will be sent out the day of each workshop. *There will be a bonus virtual choreographic feedback hour on March 27.

Step Three: Create your solo using the following guidelines.

Step Four: Submit your video by 4/10. A link for video submission will be emailed to all registered participants on 4/1.

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