| AAPC Pole Rules 2019 |
Amendments to 2019 rules:
1. Addition of Junior Elite section to ensure different skill levels catered to.
2. Music time min/max restriction waived, all can do minimum 2.5 mins (Junior, 2 mins) Maximum time for 2019 is shown in the rules
3. Movement rulings expanded upon for clarity in levels.
1. Addition of Junior Elite section to ensure different skill levels catered to.
2. Music time min/max restriction waived, all can do minimum 2.5 mins (Junior, 2 mins) Maximum time for 2019 is shown in the rules
3. Movement rulings expanded upon for clarity in levels.
rules and regulations
pole performer
2020
SECTIONS
1 Introduction
2 Applications & Entries
3 Entry videos
4 Details for competing
5 Heats & Live events
6 Presentation and props
7 The titles and awards
8 Division breakdowns & criteria
9 Movement rules
10 Judging criteria
1) Introduction:
Please also see “General T&C’s” & “Pole Info front page of website”; these 3 documents make the full rules and regulations for competing in the AAPC’s.
Under the Australian Standard of Pole Competitions – we are ranked as a social comp.
Competitors may be studio or self taught. Performers can be male or female.
Pole performers must be 18+ or if competing in the Junior divisions, be 6-16 years old and have the permission and signature of parent/guardian, with full supervision on day of competition.
2) Applications and Entries:
To enter, Contestants are required to submit an application form including entry video via google forms, $35 application fee and supply 1 professional photograph. (Application fess are per person so a group of 5 would be $35each)
Heats will be conducted through 3 different formats and scores tabulated to determine state heat entrants and finalists.
Within the heats section we offer a “Stage heat” (a live theatre show held in both SA & Vic)
"Video entry only" (if unable to attend a live heat video only may be selected for an opportunity to move straight to finals)
plus a new component open to studios across Australia - “Studio Shows” (in-house performances – available Aus wide, subject to availability)
All live heats, videos and studio heats will be viewed and judged by a panel to the same criteria, with the exclusion of costume and music points for video judging.
HEATS
Video entries are required to allow us to choose the top ranking competitors to go on to compete in the stage heats if there are large numbers of competitors; or be judged AS the heats for states where no live heats are available.
SA and Vic – a maximum of 15 competitors in a single division (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced and Amateur) and 8 Junior, to a total of 50 competitors will be chosen from the video entries to move onto the live heats.
States where no studio heat or live heat is unavailable; the videos will be scored to the same criteria as these heats and top scoring videos will be counted towards finals selection.
Competitors may elect to enter a state heat they do not reside in. (IE- participant from WA may elect to compete in the SA staged live heats)
FINALS
Top scoring finalists across all heats sections will be invited to compete in the Grand Finals with the inclusion of judges wildcard selections. Winner & Runner-up of each stage event held will be offered automatic entry to compete in the Grand Finals.
Approximately 5-8 finalists will be chosen per division – Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Amateur, Open, Junior, Junior Elite, Duo.
3) Entry Videos:
ALL PHOTOS/VIDEO MUST BE CLEARLY LABELED WITH CATEGORY AND ENTRANT NAME.
The video must be well lit, with the performer and stage area/pole easily visible. The video may not be edited in any way, It must show a continuous performance of the applicant for a minimum of 2 minutes. Videos with footage exceeding 4 mins will not be viewed beyond this point. Video entry must be clearly labelled with ‘AAPC Pole Performer’, Performer name and division applying for and year of submission. Videos may be uploaded to youtube/vimeo or dropbox, and link sent to organiser. Videos may be studio or previous performance and do not need to be the routine you intend on competing; but it must show your approximate skill level. Video entries will be judged in the first instance by the Organiser and a panel of judges. The top ranking competitors from each division will be invited to compete in live heats or the finals competition. If you are a successful finalist you will receive a registration pack and you will be notified of further details closer to the date.
4) Details for competing:
i) The Performer may choose the music/costume/styling etc for his/her show
ii) The Performer may enter multiple categories but only one skill based division. A separate application must be received for each category. (IE- Duo and Amateur but not Beginner and Amateur)
iii) Competitors may compete again in the same division to “defend their title” if skill level does not permit them to move up a division.
iv) Competitors will not be paid for any part of the competition; nor compensated for travel and expenses.
v) An expert judging panel from pole and related industries will score the competitors performance to a set criteria to determine the winner. Their decision is final.
vi) The Organiser reserves the right to expel or to disqualify any individual at any time from participation at any stage of the program with reason, including, without limitation, threatening behaviour or harming another person, violating the official rules or other rules in effect or the standards and practices and policies of the competition. Disqualification may result in, amongst other things, immediate forfeiture of any prize otherwise awarded or award-able.
vii) During the competition, the performer must abide by the rules and arrive in advance as stated by the Competition Organizer. Any failure to abide by the above mentioned rules will result in immediate disqualification.
viii) All performers must show skill through tricks and combinations on both floor, through movement (dance, acro) and on the pole throughout their routine.
ix) On the day of competition; there will be a semi-dress rehearsal. This is a time for each person to run through their routine/parades. We will run through any choreography and standing positions on the day.
5) Live events, heats, semi finals and the grand final:
Finalists for the grand final will be selected via winner/runnerup of theatre shows in each division, and top scores across all the heats. This includes studio shows, stage heats and video entries. All formats will be judged to the same criteria. Submitting an entry does not guarantee competing in a live event.
Routine concept/theme and music must not change but it is permitted for competitors to change parts of chorepgraphy, pole work, costume and props.
i) The poles for studio shows will depend on each studio’s previous setup. This will either be 45mm Stainless or 40mm brass or similar. The poles used in the stage heats (SA, other states TBC) and finals will be 38mm brass Pussycat poles at a height of 3.5mtr. There will be one spinning and one static pole. All pole setups will be - stationary stage right and spinning stage left. *When standing on the stage, looking at the crowd, the static pole is on your right.
ii) Competitors may join the audience after their performance provided they have purchased a reserved seat.
iii) Performers may not communicate with members of the judging panel before, during or after the designated times of Heats, Semi-finals or the Grand Final Competition;
iv) Dressing rooms are for competitors and staff only – they are off limits to family members or friends of the Performers.
v) Performers are not permitted to drink alcohol or take drugs (unless prescribed) before or during the night of the Competition.
6) Presentation / Costume & Props:
PLEASE NOTE: there is a difference between heats and grand finals props/cleanup.
i) Clothing removal is OK. Pole Performer competitors may not perform nude or partially nude
ii) Footwear is optional. You may wear heels, boots, sneakers or have bare feet.
iii) There is to be NO fire/flames or live animals, and no large amounts of liquid. No exceptions.
iv) Performers are not permitted to use members of the crowd, or leave the stage and during their show.
v) Back up dancers or other people are permitted on stage during the performer’s show. A plant in the audience may be used, but crowd participation is not permitted.
vi) A competitor may use props in their show. In any heat, only hand held props accepted, no setups or cleanups. For Grand finals, larger props and cleanups permitted (No long cleanups – penalties may apply)
7) The titles and awards
i) The Pole Performer award is an official title valid for one year commencing from the date of the Competition.
ii) The title must be used exactly as printed on the sash. Deviation from this is not accepted. You must include AAPC and the year of title.
iii) An AAPC Pole winner is considered to be an ambassador of that style in Australia and in your winning state.
iv) It is expected the prize winners will co-operate with the promotion of the competition and activities. This may include pre, during and post competition media interviews, performances and photographs; to take on several promotional activities. This occurs in consultation with the Organisers and may be financially remunerated for such activities.
v) The Organiser reserves the right to retract the title if the Performer causes any damages to the Competition. In the case of retraction, the runner up will become the new elected title holder
Finals - Official titles available for 2020:
AAPC Australian Junior Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Junior Elite Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Beginner Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Intermediate Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Advanced Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Amateur Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Open Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Pole Performer Duo/Group
Finals - Supplement Awards: (subject to change)
AAPC Pole Performer Media Mogul
AAPC Pole Performer Judges Choice
AAPC Pole Performer Sponsors Choice
AAPC Pole Performer Trixter Award
AAPC Pole Performer Best Dance Award
AAPC Pole Performer Costume Award
Titles will be available for state heats with a theatre show
~ IE: AAPC(year) SA Beginner Pole Performer
Winner in each division at studio heats will receive the award of
~ AAPC(year) (state) (division) Pole Performer Studio Show winner
8) Division breakdowns:
Please note, it is not expected that you have competed or performed previously. The explanations below is only a guideline and pertains to the maximum level you can reach for that division before moving to the next.
Routine lengths = Minimum 2.00 min - Standard 2.30 min - Maximum 3.10 min
All competitive sections are open to all genders.
Entrants may elect to compete in a division they have previously won to "defend their title" for a maximum of 3 times. Should the performers trick/skill level increase, they are required to move up a division.
AAPC’s Australian Junior Pole Performer
JUNIOR–open competitors age 6-16 years-Parent/Guardian must accompany to event and sign off.
Minimum 6 months training. Limited skill level. No handprings, Iron X, Extreme flex or acro, No elite moves)
AAPC’s Australian Junior Elite Pole Performer
JUNIOR ELITE–open to competitors age 6-16 years-Parent/Guardian must accompany to event and sign off.
Minimum 12 months training. Open skill level.
AAPC’s Australian Beginner Pole Performer
BEGINNER
Minimum 6 months training. NO INVERTING. Floor work, spins and climbing permitted; hips must remain below shoulders at all times during pole work, with the exception of a head/forearm stand (back against pole). One hand must remain on the pole at all tims during pole work with the exception of "angel seats" and "twisted crucifix". Acro and floorwork is permitted.
AAPC’s Australian Intermediate Pole Performer
INTERMEDIATE
Dancers may invert and leg hang and Aysha, but not handspring in this category. There are rulings on upside down movement. Instructors at a beginner teaching level and previous performers/competitors are permitted to enter this category.
AAPC’s Australian Advanced Pole Performer
ADVANCED
Dancers may handspring and perform advanced tricks and flex moves in this category, but no elite movement or extreme flex.
There are rulings on movement within this category. Instructors at an Intermediate level and previous performers/competitors are permitted to enter this category. This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a competition upto and including an amateur/semi pro division; and not placed in the top 3.
AAPC’s Australian Amateur Pole Performer
AMATEUR (high level ADVANCED/ELITE movement allowed)
This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a competition upto and including an amateur/semi pro division; and placed. (Placement is not required, but you may have placed in the top 3 of an Amateur division) Instructors and paid performers are permitted to enter this category. There is no restriction on movement in this category.
AAPC’s Australian Amateur Pole Performer
OPEN (semi-pro)
This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a competition upto and including semi professional division and placed, or in a professional division but not placed. There is no restriction on movement in this category, but performers must not be consi.
AAPC’s Australian Duo/Group Pole Performers (upto 5 people)
Duo/Group pole – This division is open to any groups under a national level.
9) Movement rules
This is an open working document, subject to change.
Beginner- movements not allowed: Any trick considered “intermediate”
One hand must remain on the pole during moves with the exception of an “angel seat” or “crucifix twist” Hips must remain level or below shoulders. No extreme flex.
Ragdoll spin, Sunwheel spins, Ankle hold side spin, Flares
Superman
Hood orniment with pit grip (top hand must remain)
Elbow spins
Pit grips and Teddy holds
Handstands
Stomach grips/Hip grips without hand support
Reiko split, Banana split, Vertical split on pole
Chopstix
Flag arm hold variations (pit tuck with hand and down grip only. No full side extension or side straddle. Front straddle and side, passe OK)
Hip lock drops
Intermediate movements not allowed: Any trick considered “advanced”/extreme flex
Drops and tumbles (basic slides OK. IE- NO Holly, Jade, Martini drop. Lowering down into movement ok, but no dynamic drops/tumbles)
Suspended walks (while rising or lowering. IE-Shoulder mounting or staircase spin)
Handsprings into Ayesha/elbow grip – Basic Ayesha and variations allowed in all grips (true/split, twisted and cup; fang not allowed)
Suicide spins
Gargoyle, Super passe, Stargazer release, Remi layback (seat OK)
Caterpillar climbing, Pantera climb
Parallel handstands (pole assisted allowed – point of contact must rest against the pole, must not perform walkovers)
Pole cartwheels (parallel to pole OR shoulder mount)
Chest Press
Iron X and advanced strength; Levers, Deadlifts, Hunter press, Flag lifts
Tulip, Bow and Arrow (Butterfly press)
Iguana/Darryl Hannah
Handsprings into Ayesha/elbow grip – Basic Ayesha and variations allowed in all grips (true/split, twisted and cup)
Russian split, Allegra box split
Tabletops, Back hold/support (planches, dragon tail etc)
Marion Amber/Sneaky V
Broken doll/Jallegra style movements
Inverted hand near face grips (Pegasus)
Elbow grips (other than upright spins with 2nd point of contact assist or double embrace)
Vortex, Machine gun, Janiero,
Knee grip without point of contact assist (IE Jeanie, one hand must remain.)
Cocoon, Bui bend,
Unassisted hold cupid
Stomach grip/Hiplock roll to Jade
Advanced Movements not allowed: Any trick considered “elite”
Somersault style flips on or off the pole (Butterfly flip and Ragdoll pop over excluded)
Extreme flex - Rainbow Marchenko, Spatchcock, Eagle
Shoulder pops
Fonji/Kamikaze, Phoenix
Bird of Paradise
10) Judging Criteria & Overview
Performances may be in any pole style the competitor chooses (IE- Storytelling, Contemporary, Comedy, Artistic, Hiphop, Themed, Exotic etc) While we allow all style of performance, please be aware that this is an all ages competition and we cannot allow overly lewd gestures and behavior.
First place in each division will be awarded to the competitor who, via the highest scores from the judges, shows a unique combination of sound technical skill and ability in their division through full execution of tricks and technique; plus demonstrates a high level of performance value through dance and/or theatrics, musicality & costuming, stage presence, showmanship and overall embodiment what ever style or genre they choose to perform through artistic expression and cohesion of performance.
The AAPC Pole Performer competition is a PERFORMANCE based competition, not highest degree of difficulty. Failure to execute moves without proper technique and full execution will be penalized.
SCORING BREAKDOWN
Parade Introduction (Finals only)
Performance /100
Please note: AAPC is a performance based competition. Degree of difficulty is not taken into consideration.
TECHNICAL ABILITY /50
/10 Fluidity and Transitioning - Does the whole routine flow smoothly or feel start/stop
/10 Strength and Control - Does the performer showcase the routine with ease?
/15 Lines and Extensions - Posture, Point, Full extension, Clean lines
/15 Full Execution - Are moves cleanly executed and fully completed?
ARTISTIC IMPRESSION /50
/10 Costuming and Music - Does the theme fit together, Effort
/15 Dance/Theatrics - Includes movement with and without the pole, floorwork, acro
/15 Creativity and Originality - X factor, Uniqueness in presentation
/10 Stage Presence - Awareness of audience and judges, Eye contact/Engagement,
DEDUCTIONS APPLICABLE:
Banned moves in division or Non-adherence to rules – 10 points per move or application.
Tallied by head judge and taken from overall score
Overly lewd gestures/behavior/tone – 10 points per occurrence.
Tallied by head judge each time agreed by full panel and taken from overall score
Costume fails and falls are not deducted as points, but marked within the sections of “Costuming and Music” and “Full execution”/”Strength & Control”
pole performer
2020
SECTIONS
1 Introduction
2 Applications & Entries
3 Entry videos
4 Details for competing
5 Heats & Live events
6 Presentation and props
7 The titles and awards
8 Division breakdowns & criteria
9 Movement rules
10 Judging criteria
1) Introduction:
Please also see “General T&C’s” & “Pole Info front page of website”; these 3 documents make the full rules and regulations for competing in the AAPC’s.
Under the Australian Standard of Pole Competitions – we are ranked as a social comp.
Competitors may be studio or self taught. Performers can be male or female.
Pole performers must be 18+ or if competing in the Junior divisions, be 6-16 years old and have the permission and signature of parent/guardian, with full supervision on day of competition.
2) Applications and Entries:
To enter, Contestants are required to submit an application form including entry video via google forms, $35 application fee and supply 1 professional photograph. (Application fess are per person so a group of 5 would be $35each)
Heats will be conducted through 3 different formats and scores tabulated to determine state heat entrants and finalists.
Within the heats section we offer a “Stage heat” (a live theatre show held in both SA & Vic)
"Video entry only" (if unable to attend a live heat video only may be selected for an opportunity to move straight to finals)
plus a new component open to studios across Australia - “Studio Shows” (in-house performances – available Aus wide, subject to availability)
All live heats, videos and studio heats will be viewed and judged by a panel to the same criteria, with the exclusion of costume and music points for video judging.
HEATS
Video entries are required to allow us to choose the top ranking competitors to go on to compete in the stage heats if there are large numbers of competitors; or be judged AS the heats for states where no live heats are available.
SA and Vic – a maximum of 15 competitors in a single division (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced and Amateur) and 8 Junior, to a total of 50 competitors will be chosen from the video entries to move onto the live heats.
States where no studio heat or live heat is unavailable; the videos will be scored to the same criteria as these heats and top scoring videos will be counted towards finals selection.
Competitors may elect to enter a state heat they do not reside in. (IE- participant from WA may elect to compete in the SA staged live heats)
FINALS
Top scoring finalists across all heats sections will be invited to compete in the Grand Finals with the inclusion of judges wildcard selections. Winner & Runner-up of each stage event held will be offered automatic entry to compete in the Grand Finals.
Approximately 5-8 finalists will be chosen per division – Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Amateur, Open, Junior, Junior Elite, Duo.
3) Entry Videos:
ALL PHOTOS/VIDEO MUST BE CLEARLY LABELED WITH CATEGORY AND ENTRANT NAME.
The video must be well lit, with the performer and stage area/pole easily visible. The video may not be edited in any way, It must show a continuous performance of the applicant for a minimum of 2 minutes. Videos with footage exceeding 4 mins will not be viewed beyond this point. Video entry must be clearly labelled with ‘AAPC Pole Performer’, Performer name and division applying for and year of submission. Videos may be uploaded to youtube/vimeo or dropbox, and link sent to organiser. Videos may be studio or previous performance and do not need to be the routine you intend on competing; but it must show your approximate skill level. Video entries will be judged in the first instance by the Organiser and a panel of judges. The top ranking competitors from each division will be invited to compete in live heats or the finals competition. If you are a successful finalist you will receive a registration pack and you will be notified of further details closer to the date.
4) Details for competing:
i) The Performer may choose the music/costume/styling etc for his/her show
ii) The Performer may enter multiple categories but only one skill based division. A separate application must be received for each category. (IE- Duo and Amateur but not Beginner and Amateur)
iii) Competitors may compete again in the same division to “defend their title” if skill level does not permit them to move up a division.
iv) Competitors will not be paid for any part of the competition; nor compensated for travel and expenses.
v) An expert judging panel from pole and related industries will score the competitors performance to a set criteria to determine the winner. Their decision is final.
vi) The Organiser reserves the right to expel or to disqualify any individual at any time from participation at any stage of the program with reason, including, without limitation, threatening behaviour or harming another person, violating the official rules or other rules in effect or the standards and practices and policies of the competition. Disqualification may result in, amongst other things, immediate forfeiture of any prize otherwise awarded or award-able.
vii) During the competition, the performer must abide by the rules and arrive in advance as stated by the Competition Organizer. Any failure to abide by the above mentioned rules will result in immediate disqualification.
viii) All performers must show skill through tricks and combinations on both floor, through movement (dance, acro) and on the pole throughout their routine.
ix) On the day of competition; there will be a semi-dress rehearsal. This is a time for each person to run through their routine/parades. We will run through any choreography and standing positions on the day.
5) Live events, heats, semi finals and the grand final:
Finalists for the grand final will be selected via winner/runnerup of theatre shows in each division, and top scores across all the heats. This includes studio shows, stage heats and video entries. All formats will be judged to the same criteria. Submitting an entry does not guarantee competing in a live event.
Routine concept/theme and music must not change but it is permitted for competitors to change parts of chorepgraphy, pole work, costume and props.
i) The poles for studio shows will depend on each studio’s previous setup. This will either be 45mm Stainless or 40mm brass or similar. The poles used in the stage heats (SA, other states TBC) and finals will be 38mm brass Pussycat poles at a height of 3.5mtr. There will be one spinning and one static pole. All pole setups will be - stationary stage right and spinning stage left. *When standing on the stage, looking at the crowd, the static pole is on your right.
ii) Competitors may join the audience after their performance provided they have purchased a reserved seat.
iii) Performers may not communicate with members of the judging panel before, during or after the designated times of Heats, Semi-finals or the Grand Final Competition;
iv) Dressing rooms are for competitors and staff only – they are off limits to family members or friends of the Performers.
v) Performers are not permitted to drink alcohol or take drugs (unless prescribed) before or during the night of the Competition.
6) Presentation / Costume & Props:
PLEASE NOTE: there is a difference between heats and grand finals props/cleanup.
i) Clothing removal is OK. Pole Performer competitors may not perform nude or partially nude
ii) Footwear is optional. You may wear heels, boots, sneakers or have bare feet.
iii) There is to be NO fire/flames or live animals, and no large amounts of liquid. No exceptions.
iv) Performers are not permitted to use members of the crowd, or leave the stage and during their show.
v) Back up dancers or other people are permitted on stage during the performer’s show. A plant in the audience may be used, but crowd participation is not permitted.
vi) A competitor may use props in their show. In any heat, only hand held props accepted, no setups or cleanups. For Grand finals, larger props and cleanups permitted (No long cleanups – penalties may apply)
7) The titles and awards
i) The Pole Performer award is an official title valid for one year commencing from the date of the Competition.
ii) The title must be used exactly as printed on the sash. Deviation from this is not accepted. You must include AAPC and the year of title.
iii) An AAPC Pole winner is considered to be an ambassador of that style in Australia and in your winning state.
iv) It is expected the prize winners will co-operate with the promotion of the competition and activities. This may include pre, during and post competition media interviews, performances and photographs; to take on several promotional activities. This occurs in consultation with the Organisers and may be financially remunerated for such activities.
v) The Organiser reserves the right to retract the title if the Performer causes any damages to the Competition. In the case of retraction, the runner up will become the new elected title holder
Finals - Official titles available for 2020:
AAPC Australian Junior Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Junior Elite Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Beginner Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Intermediate Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Advanced Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Amateur Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Open Pole Performer
AAPC Australian Pole Performer Duo/Group
Finals - Supplement Awards: (subject to change)
AAPC Pole Performer Media Mogul
AAPC Pole Performer Judges Choice
AAPC Pole Performer Sponsors Choice
AAPC Pole Performer Trixter Award
AAPC Pole Performer Best Dance Award
AAPC Pole Performer Costume Award
Titles will be available for state heats with a theatre show
~ IE: AAPC(year) SA Beginner Pole Performer
Winner in each division at studio heats will receive the award of
~ AAPC(year) (state) (division) Pole Performer Studio Show winner
8) Division breakdowns:
Please note, it is not expected that you have competed or performed previously. The explanations below is only a guideline and pertains to the maximum level you can reach for that division before moving to the next.
Routine lengths = Minimum 2.00 min - Standard 2.30 min - Maximum 3.10 min
All competitive sections are open to all genders.
Entrants may elect to compete in a division they have previously won to "defend their title" for a maximum of 3 times. Should the performers trick/skill level increase, they are required to move up a division.
AAPC’s Australian Junior Pole Performer
JUNIOR–open competitors age 6-16 years-Parent/Guardian must accompany to event and sign off.
Minimum 6 months training. Limited skill level. No handprings, Iron X, Extreme flex or acro, No elite moves)
AAPC’s Australian Junior Elite Pole Performer
JUNIOR ELITE–open to competitors age 6-16 years-Parent/Guardian must accompany to event and sign off.
Minimum 12 months training. Open skill level.
AAPC’s Australian Beginner Pole Performer
BEGINNER
Minimum 6 months training. NO INVERTING. Floor work, spins and climbing permitted; hips must remain below shoulders at all times during pole work, with the exception of a head/forearm stand (back against pole). One hand must remain on the pole at all tims during pole work with the exception of "angel seats" and "twisted crucifix". Acro and floorwork is permitted.
AAPC’s Australian Intermediate Pole Performer
INTERMEDIATE
Dancers may invert and leg hang and Aysha, but not handspring in this category. There are rulings on upside down movement. Instructors at a beginner teaching level and previous performers/competitors are permitted to enter this category.
AAPC’s Australian Advanced Pole Performer
ADVANCED
Dancers may handspring and perform advanced tricks and flex moves in this category, but no elite movement or extreme flex.
There are rulings on movement within this category. Instructors at an Intermediate level and previous performers/competitors are permitted to enter this category. This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a competition upto and including an amateur/semi pro division; and not placed in the top 3.
AAPC’s Australian Amateur Pole Performer
AMATEUR (high level ADVANCED/ELITE movement allowed)
This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a competition upto and including an amateur/semi pro division; and placed. (Placement is not required, but you may have placed in the top 3 of an Amateur division) Instructors and paid performers are permitted to enter this category. There is no restriction on movement in this category.
AAPC’s Australian Amateur Pole Performer
OPEN (semi-pro)
This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a competition upto and including semi professional division and placed, or in a professional division but not placed. There is no restriction on movement in this category, but performers must not be consi.
AAPC’s Australian Duo/Group Pole Performers (upto 5 people)
Duo/Group pole – This division is open to any groups under a national level.
9) Movement rules
This is an open working document, subject to change.
Beginner- movements not allowed: Any trick considered “intermediate”
One hand must remain on the pole during moves with the exception of an “angel seat” or “crucifix twist” Hips must remain level or below shoulders. No extreme flex.
Ragdoll spin, Sunwheel spins, Ankle hold side spin, Flares
Superman
Hood orniment with pit grip (top hand must remain)
Elbow spins
Pit grips and Teddy holds
Handstands
Stomach grips/Hip grips without hand support
Reiko split, Banana split, Vertical split on pole
Chopstix
Flag arm hold variations (pit tuck with hand and down grip only. No full side extension or side straddle. Front straddle and side, passe OK)
Hip lock drops
Intermediate movements not allowed: Any trick considered “advanced”/extreme flex
Drops and tumbles (basic slides OK. IE- NO Holly, Jade, Martini drop. Lowering down into movement ok, but no dynamic drops/tumbles)
Suspended walks (while rising or lowering. IE-Shoulder mounting or staircase spin)
Handsprings into Ayesha/elbow grip – Basic Ayesha and variations allowed in all grips (true/split, twisted and cup; fang not allowed)
Suicide spins
Gargoyle, Super passe, Stargazer release, Remi layback (seat OK)
Caterpillar climbing, Pantera climb
Parallel handstands (pole assisted allowed – point of contact must rest against the pole, must not perform walkovers)
Pole cartwheels (parallel to pole OR shoulder mount)
Chest Press
Iron X and advanced strength; Levers, Deadlifts, Hunter press, Flag lifts
Tulip, Bow and Arrow (Butterfly press)
Iguana/Darryl Hannah
Handsprings into Ayesha/elbow grip – Basic Ayesha and variations allowed in all grips (true/split, twisted and cup)
Russian split, Allegra box split
Tabletops, Back hold/support (planches, dragon tail etc)
Marion Amber/Sneaky V
Broken doll/Jallegra style movements
Inverted hand near face grips (Pegasus)
Elbow grips (other than upright spins with 2nd point of contact assist or double embrace)
Vortex, Machine gun, Janiero,
Knee grip without point of contact assist (IE Jeanie, one hand must remain.)
Cocoon, Bui bend,
Unassisted hold cupid
Stomach grip/Hiplock roll to Jade
Advanced Movements not allowed: Any trick considered “elite”
Somersault style flips on or off the pole (Butterfly flip and Ragdoll pop over excluded)
Extreme flex - Rainbow Marchenko, Spatchcock, Eagle
Shoulder pops
Fonji/Kamikaze, Phoenix
Bird of Paradise
10) Judging Criteria & Overview
Performances may be in any pole style the competitor chooses (IE- Storytelling, Contemporary, Comedy, Artistic, Hiphop, Themed, Exotic etc) While we allow all style of performance, please be aware that this is an all ages competition and we cannot allow overly lewd gestures and behavior.
First place in each division will be awarded to the competitor who, via the highest scores from the judges, shows a unique combination of sound technical skill and ability in their division through full execution of tricks and technique; plus demonstrates a high level of performance value through dance and/or theatrics, musicality & costuming, stage presence, showmanship and overall embodiment what ever style or genre they choose to perform through artistic expression and cohesion of performance.
The AAPC Pole Performer competition is a PERFORMANCE based competition, not highest degree of difficulty. Failure to execute moves without proper technique and full execution will be penalized.
SCORING BREAKDOWN
Parade Introduction (Finals only)
Performance /100
Please note: AAPC is a performance based competition. Degree of difficulty is not taken into consideration.
TECHNICAL ABILITY /50
/10 Fluidity and Transitioning - Does the whole routine flow smoothly or feel start/stop
/10 Strength and Control - Does the performer showcase the routine with ease?
/15 Lines and Extensions - Posture, Point, Full extension, Clean lines
/15 Full Execution - Are moves cleanly executed and fully completed?
ARTISTIC IMPRESSION /50
/10 Costuming and Music - Does the theme fit together, Effort
/15 Dance/Theatrics - Includes movement with and without the pole, floorwork, acro
/15 Creativity and Originality - X factor, Uniqueness in presentation
/10 Stage Presence - Awareness of audience and judges, Eye contact/Engagement,
DEDUCTIONS APPLICABLE:
Banned moves in division or Non-adherence to rules – 10 points per move or application.
Tallied by head judge and taken from overall score
Overly lewd gestures/behavior/tone – 10 points per occurrence.
Tallied by head judge each time agreed by full panel and taken from overall score
Costume fails and falls are not deducted as points, but marked within the sections of “Costuming and Music” and “Full execution”/”Strength & Control”
