How do Highland dance competitions work?
Entering the Highland dance world for the first time can be challenging and confusing, but it doesn’t have to be!
This post contains all you need to know about how Highland dance competitions work, how judging works, and how to get involved.
Highland dance competitive dancer categories
The RSOBHD (Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dance) operates a registration system that allows dancers to progress through competitive categories based on their competition results.
The categories are as follows:
- Primary
- Beginner
- Novice
- Intermediate
- Premier
The first four categories are considered “pre-premier”.
Dancers who register with the RSOBHD are entitled to compete in all RSOBHD-sanctioned competitions.
Want to learn more?
How are highland dancers judged in competition?
Technique, which is evaluated based on the expectations set out in the RSOBHD dance textbooks, takes up a huge portion of the criteria of a dancer’s score:
- Technique: maximum of 80 marks
- Timing: maximum of 10 marks
- General deportment: maximum of 10 marks
Highland dance competitive event types
Championships
Championships are only for Premier-level dancers, and dancers must dance the Highland dances (Fling, Sword, Seann Truibhas, and Reel) with the RSOBHD-assigned steps for that year. 3 judges are needed for championships, and scores are calculated collectively from the three judges in order to award placings.
Open Championships
Competitors residing outside the area named in the championship title may compete (i.e.: dancers from around the world may compete in the Canadian Open Championships).
Closed Championships
Competitors must qualify by birth or residency in order to compete in the event (i.e.: the New Brunswick Closed Provincial Championship is closed to dancers outside of New Brunswick).
Premierships
Premierships are similar to Championships in that only Premier dancers compete, and 3 judges are needed.
Premierships are categorised as an open event, and dancers compete with four National dances rather than Highland dances. Each year, the RSOBHD assigns steps for four different National dances for the purposes of the Premiership. For example, the 2022 Premiership dances are the Sailor’s Hornpipe, Earl of Errol, Scotch Measure, and Scottish Lilt.
Premier competitions and Pre-Premier competitions
These are the competitions you typically see hosted by your local dance associations. Competition organisers are able to select the dances for the event (within RSOBHD regulations), and these allow pre-premier competitors to move up through the categories.
These are judged by one judge, and overall trophies are awarded to dancers who accumulate the most points obtained through the dance events of the day.
Pre-Championship competitions
Pre-championships are open to dancers who have never won first-overall in a championship event.
Do you have a question about Highland dance that we haven't covered in our blog?
Shoot us a message, and we’ll find your answer!
Comments
Victor Cruz
Thank you for providing a detailed explanation of how Highland dance competitions work. Highland dance is a rich and vibrant form of dance with its unique traditions and competition structure. Your article offers valuable insights that help dancers and enthusiasts better understand the inner workings of these competitions.
The breakdown of the different competition levels, from beginner to premier, provides a clear understanding of the progression and skill requirements in Highland dance. It is helpful for both dancers and their families to have a roadmap of the various levels and the criteria for moving up through the ranks.
The explanation of the dances performed in competition, including the Highland Fling, Sword Dance, and Seann Triubhas, gives readers a glimpse into the variety and complexity of these traditional dances. Understanding the technical aspects and historical significance of each dance adds a deeper appreciation for the art form.
Additionally, your overview of the competition format, including the different stages, rounds, and judging criteria, offers valuable insights into the judging process in Highland dance. The emphasis on technique, timing, precision, and musicality, as well as the importance of presentation and expression, showcases the comprehensive evaluation that dancers undergo during competitions.
The mention of attire, including the traditional Highland dance costume and the significance of tartans and accessories, adds a cultural element to the competitions. It’s fascinating to learn about the symbolism and heritage represented in the dancers’ attire.
Your article serves as a helpful guide for those interested in participating in Highland dance competitions or those wanting to support dancers in their journey. It provides a comprehensive overview of the competition structure, technical requirements, and the cultural significance that underpins this beautiful dance form.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge and insights into how Highland dance competitions work. Your article will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of this unique style of dance.