How the Salsaweb International Amateur Dance Competition
Will Be Run
on Sunday, June 28th, 1998 at the Los Angeles Hollywood Palladium:
Nationally Televised by Galavision
Because of the quantity of international finalists, we have formulated a unique system of judging. We want to avoid a long, drawn-out competition, while at the same time, allow for television "breaks" like shows, performances, Lastin Music Awards, etc. between judging and performances. Read below for details.
Hollywood Palladium Doors open: 1:00pm.
Sunday, June 28th, 1:00-1:30pm Check-in and Registration
DO NOT BE LATE! You will each be given a number with four safety pins for the man to pin on the back of his shirt. The ladies will not have to wear a number. Bring your music on CD, but it will not be needed yet. Read below for exactly "when" you will be asked for your music.
The contestants will arrive and check in at 1PM, get ready for backstage photo shoot. At 3PM, there will be a 1-minute warm-up dance. The contestants will line up on one side of stage, to be introduced one couple at a time. As the couples names are called, they will run to the center of the rear quarter of the stage, take 5 seconds to make their best move, and immediately exit to the opposite side of the stage and line up.
They will then take positions on the floor, and dance to 2 minutes of each of 3 songs, of different speeds, after which they will leave the floor. After a break, the judges announce the semi-final 12 couples, who assemble to dance to one 3-minute song.
After another break, the judges announce the 6 couples who are finalists. They will give their music to the DJ. Each couple will then dance a spotlight dance for 2 minutes. After the next break, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be announced, and awards given. All breaks are approximately 25 to 35 minutes long, and will feature lots of live band backed social dancing, special presentations/awards, and announcements.
Celebrity Judges:
Constance Marie ("Selena," "Mi Familia" and "Union Square")
Mario Lopez ("Pacific Blues," "Saved by the Bell," "Greg Louganis Story")
Jose Solano ("Baywatch")
Stephanie Edwards ("The Live Show")
Toni Basil ("Hey Ricki: - Late '80's song, choreographer/actress/singer)
Barbara Luna ("Star Trek")
Randa Haines ("Producer of Dance with Me")
The winning couple will then choose at that time, between the all-expense paid trip to the World Salsa Congress, or $2500 total cash.
Afterward, there will be an After-Festival Celebrity, Host, and Salsa Party that will only be free for the hosts, all competitors, club owners, and Celebrities. Cost, $75.
Read my Tips for Competitors if you're going to participate!