Can I skip a level and dance Silver without doing Bronze first?
No, but you can register and dance two levels on the same test date. For example, dance Bronze and then the Silver test later on in the day. This would not be our recommendation, but it is possible.
Are there other people going to be watching me being tested?
No. The only people in the room will be you and your dance partner, the examiner, the D.J. and possibly your teacher.
What should I wear for the evaluation?
- Ladies - please wear a skirt or dress (no slacks), and high-heeled dance shoes are preferable to flat practice shoes.
- Gentlemen - dress slacks, shirt and tie. A vest or cardigan sweater is probably better than a jacket since the shoulders usually ride up in a jacket when your arms are up.
Will there be any place to warm-up on the day of my evaluation?
Yes, you will be able to warm up on the South Floor behind the curtain. You will not however, be able to use the music.
Can I choose my own music?
Yes. Please let us know ahead of time so that the D.J. is prepared.
When should I arrive? Is there anything else I need to do on that day?
You should be ready 1/2 hour before your test time. Your coach will help you to fill out your evaluation sheet, (name, dances, etc.) prior to your test. You will give the sheet to your examiner prior to your dancing.
Can I choose which dance I wish to do first?
Yes. Write down the order of dances on your marks sheet.
How long will I have to dance?
Approximately 1 1/2—2 minutes maximum per person, per dance. If you and your partner areboth being evaluated you will have to dance each dance twice so that the examiner can fairly access each of you.
If I start off time can I stop and start again?
Yes, you can certainly start your routine again if you have made a mistake.
Do I have to take Private Lessons?
No, but it is highly recommended if you are expecting more than just a passing grade. One-on-one instruction is the fastest way to improve your dancing. On average, it takes 4 months of training for a Bronze test, 6 months for Silver, 1 year each for Gold and Gold Star.
Your instructor will…
- Put together proper syllabus routines for each dance of your medal test.
- Instruct you on the correct technique and styling for every dance variation.
- Set up and explain to you the schedule of training and practice exercises.
- Clarify for you as to the expectations of the examiner.
- Advise you on the procedures on medal test day.
- Teach you at the pace that is most comfortable for you.
- Dance your routine with you for your medal test if you do not have a regular partner.
Am I competing against other students?
Not at all. Your examiner will be evaluating your dancing based on an accepted national standard and will also take into account your age group. You will be given one of the following grades: Pass, Commended, High Commended, Honours. The grades are not posted and the evaluation for will be given back to you the next day.
