AAPC POLE PERFORMER
CONTENTS
Entries Open 23 Jan 2023
Entries Close 1st of month prior to show (approx. 8 week lead time)
SA live heat Entries close April 1. EVENT: June 17 – Star Theatre
Vic live heat Entries close May 1. EVENT: July 15 – Thornbury Theatre
QLD live heat Entries close June 11. EVENT: September 16
JUNIOR/DUO Entries close September 1. EVENT: Nov 12 – Star Theatre
Grand Finals November 11th/12th (SA)
ONLINE ONLY:
Online Entries Open March 6th
Online Entries Close August 28th (Midnight on the 27th)
LIVE COMPETITIONS
HOW TO ENTER
To enter, Contestants are required to submit an application form including entry video via google forms, $50 application fee and supply 1 professional photograph for promotions. All pieces of application must be completed for the entry to be deemed successful. Late entries will not be accepted.
Competitors may elect to enter whichever state heat they prefer. After submission, When entries close, applications are reviewed and if necessary due to capacity of competitor numbers, videos will be judged and scored. The highest ranking entries will be accepted to compete in a heat.
All entrants will be emailed after the first selection for live shows with either an unsuccessful message, or a link to the registration form.
Registration forms must be received at latest 2 weeks before the events. This is to ensure we can process all documents and send the appropriate information to each staff member.
Initial Selection Criteria
i) The Performer must have at least 6 months of training and experience
ii) The Performer must be at least 18 years of age OR have guardian sign-off
iii) The Performer must be an Australian citizen or Australian resident.
iv) Competitors can be studio trained or self taught.
Entry Videos
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. Downloadable links are preferred, but not crucial, It is expected videos will be in costume but HMUA is not required.
Videos may be studio or previous performance and does not need to be the routine you intend on competing; but it must show your approximate skill level, and must not be recorded more than 18 months prior. Video entries will be judged in the first instance by the Organiser and a panel of judges.
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
(Please note: this section has been lifted straight from the rules and regulations page)
ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
6.i Pole details
The poles used in the stage heats (SA/Vic) will be 38mm brass Pussycat poles at a height of 3-3.5mtr. Poles are set approximately 2.4 mtrs apart and 2.5 inset from stage front and each wing. All pole setups will be 2 poles. Stationary stage right and spinning stage left.
*When standing on the stage, looking at the crowd, the static pole is on your right. With the exception of Duo/Group where both poles will be set to spin.
They will be dry wiped between each performance. Metho upon request, Dry Hands can also be applied prior to performance if requested. Please advise if you have a different preference of grip aide or preparation. Itac and similar long prep/cleanup times cannot be used – sorry.
Junior/Beginners may use one or both poles. Intermediate and above must use both poles.
(The poles for studio shows will depend on each studio’s previous setup. This will either be 45mm Stainless or 40mm brass or similar.)
6.ii Routine Components
The performance is a routine of competitor’s choice and choreography. Routines are permissible in any category or ‘genre’ of pole dancing. Presentations must be within PG/M guidelines as we have underage competitors within the pole competition. Please use language and trigger warnings if you have strong themes, sexual references and coarse language.
Length - Routine lengths for all divisions = Minimum 2.00 min - Maximum 2.30 min
(Duo/Group Maximum routine length 3.00 min)
Compulsory – All competitors must include minimum 1 minute of total pole work in their routine. This includes tricks, transitions, spins, jumps and balance; interaction on, around and using the pole.
HEATS
There will be 1 section to the competition
There will be 2 sections to the competition
6.iii Presentation
i) Clothing removal is OK but Pole Performer competitors may not perform nude or partially nude.
ii) Footwear is optional. You may wear heels, boots, sneakers or have bare feet.
Parade: This will be a catwalk style parade in division, to our chosen music.
Can be formal, themed or costume – it’s the competitor’s choice. This is not scored; it is an introduction to the judges. If not parading in your competition costume, please choose outfits fitting a black/white/gold theme.
6.iv Props
PLEASE NOTE: there is a difference between heats and grand finals props/cleanup.
HEATS - No large props, hand held and small easy setup only. Absolutely NO multiple prop setup. If you can’t carry your props on yourself; they are too big. No “mess” cleanups (IE glitter, petals, confetti.)
Human props/Back up dancers are permitted.
FINALS - May use larger props with setup and props that are considered messy (IE large confetti, petals, easy sweep things. No small glitter or powder, large amounts of liquid or animals) but no long cleanups please. Any longer than 60secs will incur a 1 point loss for every 30 seconds over. Please note all confetti/glitter use must be approved by organiser before use.
DIVISION BREAKDOWNS (LIVE COMPETITIONS)
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.
AAPC’s Australian Junior Novice Pole Performer
JUNIOR NOVICE–open to 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. Movements upto and including Beginner and Intermediate level.
AAPC’s Australian Junior Pole Performer
JUNIOR–open to competitors age 6-16 years-Parent/Guardian must accompany to event and sign off.
Minimum 6 months training. Limited skill level. No Extreme flex or acro, No elite moves. Movements upto and including Intermediate and Advanced level.
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 Artist Pole Performer
ARTIST
Upto INTERMEDIATE level pole – ADV LEVEL DANCE PERMITTED
Minimum 6 months training. Instructors at a beginner teaching level and previous performers are permitted to enter this category. Acro and floorwork is permitted at an intermediate/advanced 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 times during pole work/spins with the exception of "angel seats" and "twisted crucifix". Acro and floorwork is permitted at a beginner-intermediate level.
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. Acro and floorwork is permitted at an intermediate level.
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 national division; and not placed. (Placing means 1st or 2nd)
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 (state competition). (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 Dilettante Pole Performer
DILETTANTE (high level ADVANCED/ELITE movement allowed)
This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a national or state competition upto and including an amateur/semi pro division; and placed; or a professional division (state only) and not placed. (Placement is not required, but you may have placed in the top 3)
Any titles must be minimum of 2 years old (EXAMPLE: You competed in Miss Pole at a national level, and did not place, or competed and placed more than 2 years ago; and have had a break from pole)
Instructors and paid performers are permitted to enter this category. There is no restriction on movement in this category.
AAPC’s Australian Novice Duo/Group Pole Performers
NOVICE GROUP
This division is open to any groups under a state level. Upto Advanced skill level. Max 4 people in a team.
AAPC’s Australian Duo/Group Pole Performers
OPEN GROUP
This division is open to any groups under a national level. Open skill level. Max 4 people in a team.
Judging criteria
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, behaviour, heavily explicit music or themes.
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, whatever 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 /60
/15 Fluidity and Transitioning - Does the whole routine flow smoothly or feel start/stop
/15 Strength and Control - Does the performer showcase the routine with ease?
/15 Lines and Extensions - Posture, Point, Full extension, Clean lines
/15 Full Execution - Moves cleanly executed and fully completed. Adhere to times.
ARTISTIC IMPRESSION /40
/10 Costuming and Props - Does the theme fit together, Effort, Overuse of props?
/5 Musicality - Cohesion of music, moves and theme
/5 Dance/Theatrics - Includes movement with and without the pole, floorwork, acro
/10 Creativity and Originality - Uniqueness in presentation
/10 Stage Presence - Awareness of audience/judges, Eye contact/Engagement, Xfactor
DUO – ADD 25 points.
/25 Synchronicity - Routine must include pole combo and dance section in sync
ARTIST DIVISION ONLY
TECHNICAL ABILITY /40
/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?
/10 Lines and Extensions - Posture, Point, Full extension, Clean lines
/10 Full Execution - Moves cleanly executed and fully completed. Adhere to times.
ARTISTIC IMPRESSION /60
/10 Costuming and Props - Does the theme fit together, Effort, Overuse of props?
/15 Musicality - Cohesion of music, moves and theme
/15 Dance/Theatrics - Includes movement with and without the pole, floorwork, acro
/10 Creativity and Originality - Uniqueness in presentation
/10 Stage Presence - Awareness of audience/judges, Eye contact/Engagement, Xfactor
DEDUCTIONS AND PENALTIES APPLICABLE:
Banned moves in division or Non-adherence to rules
– 1 point per move or application. Taken per judge, per occurrence.
Costume fails and slips/falls are not deducted as points loss, but marked within the sections of “Costuming and Music” and “Full execution”/”Strength & Control” respectively.
ONLINE COMPETITIONS
HOW TO ENTER
To enter, Contestants are required to submit an application form including entry video via google forms, $25 application fee and supply 1 professional photograph for promotions. All pieces of application must be completed for the entry to be deemed successful (Application fees are per entry) Late entries will not be accepted. After submission, When entries close, applications are reviewed and videos will be judged.
THEMED online submissions must be a “character” or “style”. IE Halloween, Story, Christmas etc)
Initial Selection Criteria
i) The Performer must have at least 6 months of training and experience
ii) The Performer must be at least 18 years of age OR have guardian sign-off
iii) The Performer must be an Australian citizen or Australian resident.
iv) Competitors can be studio trained or self taught.
Entry Videos
The video must be well lit, with the performer and stage area/pole easily visible.
Videos may be edited, but must show continuous flow of dance/trick work. Videos may be uploaded to youtube/vimeo or dropbox, and link sent to organiser. Videos may be studio or previous studio performance, but previous professional competitions will not be accepted. Video entries will be judged in the first instance by the Organiser and a panel of judges.
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
This competition was originally conceptualized during the 2020 covid lockdowns, as a way to keep our competitors engaged and creative. We feel it went so well, and offers a unique creative platform… so we kept it. A winner and runnerup in each division will be chosen, plus potential supplementary awards (IE Judges Choice, Best concept etc.)
DIVISION BREAKDOWNS
AAPC’s Australian Online Novice Pole Performer
Limited skill level. No handprings/Aysha, No elite moves. Movements upto and including Intermediate level.
AAPC’s Australian Online Open Pole Performer
No limits on skill level.
AAPC’s Australian Online “After Dark” Performer
18+ only // Adult style dance category. No limits on skill level. Entry may be pole or non-pole. Revealing clothing/themes permitted to this category.
AAPC’s Australian Online “Artist” Pole Performer
Upto and including Intermediate limits on pole skill level. Entry may be pole or non-pole. Emphasis on performance vs tricks.
AAPC’s Australian Online Duo Pole Performer
No limits on skill level.
ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
6.i Pole details
You may use any size/skin pole you choose for this competition. Fixed or stage poles are permitted. You may use upto 3 poles in your routine.
6.ii Routine Components
The performance is a routine of competitor’s choice and choreography. Routines are permissible in any category or ‘genre’ of pole dancing. Presentations must be within PG/M guidelines as we have underage competitors within the novice and open levels. Please use language and trigger warnings if you have strong themes, sexual references and coarse language. Any adult theme entries not submitted to the After Dark division will be transferred if necessary.
Length - Routine lengths for all divisions = Minimum 2.00 min - Maximum 5.00 min
Judging criteria: As with all AAPC competitions, judging is less on degree of difficulty and more on presentation and execution. For the online comp we are using the standardized pole judging criteria, tweaked for broader online entry style. Points will be accumulated to a total, and there are no deductions applicable for this comp.
Scoring breakdown is as follows…
5 Fluidity and Transitioning
5 Strength and Control in moves
5 Lines and Full extension
5 Full execution of movement
5 Costuming and Props
5 Musicality
10 Creativity and Originality (X factor)
10 Dance/Theatrics OR Pole component
AAPC Pole Movement Rulings - 2023
This is an open working document, subject to change.
Advanced Movements not allowed: Any trick considered “elite”
Somersault style flips on or off the pole (IE one handed sault, full flips off pole) (Shoulder mount, Butterfly flip, Sweeper pop and Ragdoll pop over style flips excluded/allowed)
Extreme flex - Rainbow Marchenko, Spatchcock, Eagle & Inverted Eagle
Shoulder pops (up the pole. Hand over hand downwards OK), Fonji/Kamikaze
Phoenix
Bird of Paradise
Intermediate movements not allowed: Any trick considered “advanced”/extreme flex
Artist - movements not allowed: Any trick considered above “intermediate”. No extreme acro/flex.
Knee grip without point of contact assist (IE One hand must remain in moves like ‘Marley’, ‘Jeanie’ and ‘Jasmine’
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 – Basic Ayesha and variations allowed in all grips (true/split, twisted and cup; fang N/A)
Elbow grips and inverted elbow tricks (other than upright spins with 2nd point of contact assist; double embrace, bat wig and unicorn OK)
Suicide spins
Gargoyle, Super passe
Stargazer release, Russian layback. Remi layback (Remi seat OK)
Caterpillar inverted climbing, Pantera climb
Parallel handstands – one arm (pole rest/twist allowed with both hands on floor – point of contact must rest against the pole at all times except entry and exit, must not perform walkovers)
Pole cartwheels (parallel to pole OR shoulder mount)
Chest Press (shoulder mounted)
Yogini, Reverse pit grips
Iron X and advanced strength; Press ups, Levers, Deadlifts, Hunter press, Flag lifts
Tulip, Bow and Arrow (Butterfly press)
Iguana/Darryl Hannah
Russian split
Tabletops, Back hold/support when inverted (planches, dragon tail etc, To perform as spin/grip without hip tilt, OK)
Marion Amber/Trapped split
Broken doll/Jallegra style movements
Inverted hand near face grips (Pegasus, Football grip)
Vortex, Machine gun, Janiero
Cocoon, Bui bend
Unassisted hold cupid (Hand must remain on pole or leg)
Stomach grip without hand assist/Hiplock roll to Jade
Shoulder pops (Downwards, hand over hand)
Flag hold to brass position pressup
Beginner- movements not allowed: Any trick considered “intermediate”
One hand must remain on the pole during moves with the exception of crucifix hold and twisted seat
Hips must remain level or below shoulders. No extreme acro/flex.
Ragdoll spin, Sunwheel spins, Ankle hold side spin, Flares
Superman
Hood ornament with pit grip (one 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/Bomb drops
- Timeline
- How to enter
- About the competition
- Divisions and Routine requirements
- Judging Criteria
- Online Info
- Pole Movement Rules
Entries Open 23 Jan 2023
Entries Close 1st of month prior to show (approx. 8 week lead time)
SA live heat Entries close April 1. EVENT: June 17 – Star Theatre
Vic live heat Entries close May 1. EVENT: July 15 – Thornbury Theatre
QLD live heat Entries close June 11. EVENT: September 16
JUNIOR/DUO Entries close September 1. EVENT: Nov 12 – Star Theatre
Grand Finals November 11th/12th (SA)
ONLINE ONLY:
Online Entries Open March 6th
Online Entries Close August 28th (Midnight on the 27th)
LIVE COMPETITIONS
HOW TO ENTER
To enter, Contestants are required to submit an application form including entry video via google forms, $50 application fee and supply 1 professional photograph for promotions. All pieces of application must be completed for the entry to be deemed successful. Late entries will not be accepted.
Competitors may elect to enter whichever state heat they prefer. After submission, When entries close, applications are reviewed and if necessary due to capacity of competitor numbers, videos will be judged and scored. The highest ranking entries will be accepted to compete in a heat.
All entrants will be emailed after the first selection for live shows with either an unsuccessful message, or a link to the registration form.
Registration forms must be received at latest 2 weeks before the events. This is to ensure we can process all documents and send the appropriate information to each staff member.
Initial Selection Criteria
i) The Performer must have at least 6 months of training and experience
ii) The Performer must be at least 18 years of age OR have guardian sign-off
iii) The Performer must be an Australian citizen or Australian resident.
iv) Competitors can be studio trained or self taught.
- It is assumed that the performer is ready for performance.
- The entrant declares they have no contracts of obligation to other organizations or persons related to performance, modelling or entertainment.
Entry Videos
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. Downloadable links are preferred, but not crucial, It is expected videos will be in costume but HMUA is not required.
Videos may be studio or previous performance and does not need to be the routine you intend on competing; but it must show your approximate skill level, and must not be recorded more than 18 months prior. Video entries will be judged in the first instance by the Organiser and a panel of judges.
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
(Please note: this section has been lifted straight from the rules and regulations page)
ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
6.i Pole details
The poles used in the stage heats (SA/Vic) will be 38mm brass Pussycat poles at a height of 3-3.5mtr. Poles are set approximately 2.4 mtrs apart and 2.5 inset from stage front and each wing. All pole setups will be 2 poles. Stationary stage right and spinning stage left.
*When standing on the stage, looking at the crowd, the static pole is on your right. With the exception of Duo/Group where both poles will be set to spin.
They will be dry wiped between each performance. Metho upon request, Dry Hands can also be applied prior to performance if requested. Please advise if you have a different preference of grip aide or preparation. Itac and similar long prep/cleanup times cannot be used – sorry.
Junior/Beginners may use one or both poles. Intermediate and above must use both poles.
(The poles for studio shows will depend on each studio’s previous setup. This will either be 45mm Stainless or 40mm brass or similar.)
6.ii Routine Components
The performance is a routine of competitor’s choice and choreography. Routines are permissible in any category or ‘genre’ of pole dancing. Presentations must be within PG/M guidelines as we have underage competitors within the pole competition. Please use language and trigger warnings if you have strong themes, sexual references and coarse language.
Length - Routine lengths for all divisions = Minimum 2.00 min - Maximum 2.30 min
(Duo/Group Maximum routine length 3.00 min)
Compulsory – All competitors must include minimum 1 minute of total pole work in their routine. This includes tricks, transitions, spins, jumps and balance; interaction on, around and using the pole.
HEATS
There will be 1 section to the competition
- Performance
There will be 2 sections to the competition
- Parade (not judged – introduction only)
- Performance
6.iii Presentation
i) Clothing removal is OK but Pole Performer competitors may not perform nude or partially nude.
ii) Footwear is optional. You may wear heels, boots, sneakers or have bare feet.
Parade: This will be a catwalk style parade in division, to our chosen music.
Can be formal, themed or costume – it’s the competitor’s choice. This is not scored; it is an introduction to the judges. If not parading in your competition costume, please choose outfits fitting a black/white/gold theme.
6.iv Props
PLEASE NOTE: there is a difference between heats and grand finals props/cleanup.
- 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)
- There is to be NO fire/flames or live animals, and no large amounts of liquid. No exceptions.
- Performers are not permitted to use members of the crowd, or leave the stage and during their show.
- 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.
HEATS - No large props, hand held and small easy setup only. Absolutely NO multiple prop setup. If you can’t carry your props on yourself; they are too big. No “mess” cleanups (IE glitter, petals, confetti.)
Human props/Back up dancers are permitted.
FINALS - May use larger props with setup and props that are considered messy (IE large confetti, petals, easy sweep things. No small glitter or powder, large amounts of liquid or animals) but no long cleanups please. Any longer than 60secs will incur a 1 point loss for every 30 seconds over. Please note all confetti/glitter use must be approved by organiser before use.
DIVISION BREAKDOWNS (LIVE COMPETITIONS)
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.
AAPC’s Australian Junior Novice Pole Performer
JUNIOR NOVICE–open to 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. Movements upto and including Beginner and Intermediate level.
AAPC’s Australian Junior Pole Performer
JUNIOR–open to competitors age 6-16 years-Parent/Guardian must accompany to event and sign off.
Minimum 6 months training. Limited skill level. No Extreme flex or acro, No elite moves. Movements upto and including Intermediate and Advanced level.
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 Artist Pole Performer
ARTIST
Upto INTERMEDIATE level pole – ADV LEVEL DANCE PERMITTED
Minimum 6 months training. Instructors at a beginner teaching level and previous performers are permitted to enter this category. Acro and floorwork is permitted at an intermediate/advanced 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 times during pole work/spins with the exception of "angel seats" and "twisted crucifix". Acro and floorwork is permitted at a beginner-intermediate level.
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. Acro and floorwork is permitted at an intermediate level.
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 national division; and not placed. (Placing means 1st or 2nd)
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 (state competition). (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 Dilettante Pole Performer
DILETTANTE (high level ADVANCED/ELITE movement allowed)
This section is open to entrants who may have previously competed in a national or state competition upto and including an amateur/semi pro division; and placed; or a professional division (state only) and not placed. (Placement is not required, but you may have placed in the top 3)
Any titles must be minimum of 2 years old (EXAMPLE: You competed in Miss Pole at a national level, and did not place, or competed and placed more than 2 years ago; and have had a break from pole)
Instructors and paid performers are permitted to enter this category. There is no restriction on movement in this category.
AAPC’s Australian Novice Duo/Group Pole Performers
NOVICE GROUP
This division is open to any groups under a state level. Upto Advanced skill level. Max 4 people in a team.
AAPC’s Australian Duo/Group Pole Performers
OPEN GROUP
This division is open to any groups under a national level. Open skill level. Max 4 people in a team.
Judging criteria
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, behaviour, heavily explicit music or themes.
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, whatever 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 /60
/15 Fluidity and Transitioning - Does the whole routine flow smoothly or feel start/stop
/15 Strength and Control - Does the performer showcase the routine with ease?
/15 Lines and Extensions - Posture, Point, Full extension, Clean lines
/15 Full Execution - Moves cleanly executed and fully completed. Adhere to times.
ARTISTIC IMPRESSION /40
/10 Costuming and Props - Does the theme fit together, Effort, Overuse of props?
/5 Musicality - Cohesion of music, moves and theme
/5 Dance/Theatrics - Includes movement with and without the pole, floorwork, acro
/10 Creativity and Originality - Uniqueness in presentation
/10 Stage Presence - Awareness of audience/judges, Eye contact/Engagement, Xfactor
DUO – ADD 25 points.
/25 Synchronicity - Routine must include pole combo and dance section in sync
ARTIST DIVISION ONLY
TECHNICAL ABILITY /40
/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?
/10 Lines and Extensions - Posture, Point, Full extension, Clean lines
/10 Full Execution - Moves cleanly executed and fully completed. Adhere to times.
ARTISTIC IMPRESSION /60
/10 Costuming and Props - Does the theme fit together, Effort, Overuse of props?
/15 Musicality - Cohesion of music, moves and theme
/15 Dance/Theatrics - Includes movement with and without the pole, floorwork, acro
/10 Creativity and Originality - Uniqueness in presentation
/10 Stage Presence - Awareness of audience/judges, Eye contact/Engagement, Xfactor
DEDUCTIONS AND PENALTIES APPLICABLE:
Banned moves in division or Non-adherence to rules
– 1 point per move or application. Taken per judge, per occurrence.
Costume fails and slips/falls are not deducted as points loss, but marked within the sections of “Costuming and Music” and “Full execution”/”Strength & Control” respectively.
ONLINE COMPETITIONS
HOW TO ENTER
To enter, Contestants are required to submit an application form including entry video via google forms, $25 application fee and supply 1 professional photograph for promotions. All pieces of application must be completed for the entry to be deemed successful (Application fees are per entry) Late entries will not be accepted. After submission, When entries close, applications are reviewed and videos will be judged.
THEMED online submissions must be a “character” or “style”. IE Halloween, Story, Christmas etc)
Initial Selection Criteria
i) The Performer must have at least 6 months of training and experience
ii) The Performer must be at least 18 years of age OR have guardian sign-off
iii) The Performer must be an Australian citizen or Australian resident.
iv) Competitors can be studio trained or self taught.
- It is assumed that the performer is ready for performance.
- The entrant declares they have no contracts of obligation to other organizations or persons related to performance, modelling or entertainment.
Entry Videos
The video must be well lit, with the performer and stage area/pole easily visible.
Videos may be edited, but must show continuous flow of dance/trick work. Videos may be uploaded to youtube/vimeo or dropbox, and link sent to organiser. Videos may be studio or previous studio performance, but previous professional competitions will not be accepted. Video entries will be judged in the first instance by the Organiser and a panel of judges.
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
This competition was originally conceptualized during the 2020 covid lockdowns, as a way to keep our competitors engaged and creative. We feel it went so well, and offers a unique creative platform… so we kept it. A winner and runnerup in each division will be chosen, plus potential supplementary awards (IE Judges Choice, Best concept etc.)
DIVISION BREAKDOWNS
AAPC’s Australian Online Novice Pole Performer
Limited skill level. No handprings/Aysha, No elite moves. Movements upto and including Intermediate level.
AAPC’s Australian Online Open Pole Performer
No limits on skill level.
AAPC’s Australian Online “After Dark” Performer
18+ only // Adult style dance category. No limits on skill level. Entry may be pole or non-pole. Revealing clothing/themes permitted to this category.
AAPC’s Australian Online “Artist” Pole Performer
Upto and including Intermediate limits on pole skill level. Entry may be pole or non-pole. Emphasis on performance vs tricks.
AAPC’s Australian Online Duo Pole Performer
No limits on skill level.
ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS
6.i Pole details
You may use any size/skin pole you choose for this competition. Fixed or stage poles are permitted. You may use upto 3 poles in your routine.
6.ii Routine Components
The performance is a routine of competitor’s choice and choreography. Routines are permissible in any category or ‘genre’ of pole dancing. Presentations must be within PG/M guidelines as we have underage competitors within the novice and open levels. Please use language and trigger warnings if you have strong themes, sexual references and coarse language. Any adult theme entries not submitted to the After Dark division will be transferred if necessary.
Length - Routine lengths for all divisions = Minimum 2.00 min - Maximum 5.00 min
Judging criteria: As with all AAPC competitions, judging is less on degree of difficulty and more on presentation and execution. For the online comp we are using the standardized pole judging criteria, tweaked for broader online entry style. Points will be accumulated to a total, and there are no deductions applicable for this comp.
Scoring breakdown is as follows…
5 Fluidity and Transitioning
5 Strength and Control in moves
5 Lines and Full extension
5 Full execution of movement
5 Costuming and Props
5 Musicality
10 Creativity and Originality (X factor)
10 Dance/Theatrics OR Pole component
AAPC Pole Movement Rulings - 2023
This is an open working document, subject to change.
Advanced Movements not allowed: Any trick considered “elite”
Somersault style flips on or off the pole (IE one handed sault, full flips off pole) (Shoulder mount, Butterfly flip, Sweeper pop and Ragdoll pop over style flips excluded/allowed)
Extreme flex - Rainbow Marchenko, Spatchcock, Eagle & Inverted Eagle
Shoulder pops (up the pole. Hand over hand downwards OK), Fonji/Kamikaze
Phoenix
Bird of Paradise
Intermediate movements not allowed: Any trick considered “advanced”/extreme flex
Artist - movements not allowed: Any trick considered above “intermediate”. No extreme acro/flex.
Knee grip without point of contact assist (IE One hand must remain in moves like ‘Marley’, ‘Jeanie’ and ‘Jasmine’
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 – Basic Ayesha and variations allowed in all grips (true/split, twisted and cup; fang N/A)
Elbow grips and inverted elbow tricks (other than upright spins with 2nd point of contact assist; double embrace, bat wig and unicorn OK)
Suicide spins
Gargoyle, Super passe
Stargazer release, Russian layback. Remi layback (Remi seat OK)
Caterpillar inverted climbing, Pantera climb
Parallel handstands – one arm (pole rest/twist allowed with both hands on floor – point of contact must rest against the pole at all times except entry and exit, must not perform walkovers)
Pole cartwheels (parallel to pole OR shoulder mount)
Chest Press (shoulder mounted)
Yogini, Reverse pit grips
Iron X and advanced strength; Press ups, Levers, Deadlifts, Hunter press, Flag lifts
Tulip, Bow and Arrow (Butterfly press)
Iguana/Darryl Hannah
Russian split
Tabletops, Back hold/support when inverted (planches, dragon tail etc, To perform as spin/grip without hip tilt, OK)
Marion Amber/Trapped split
Broken doll/Jallegra style movements
Inverted hand near face grips (Pegasus, Football grip)
Vortex, Machine gun, Janiero
Cocoon, Bui bend
Unassisted hold cupid (Hand must remain on pole or leg)
Stomach grip without hand assist/Hiplock roll to Jade
Shoulder pops (Downwards, hand over hand)
Flag hold to brass position pressup
Beginner- movements not allowed: Any trick considered “intermediate”
One hand must remain on the pole during moves with the exception of crucifix hold and twisted seat
Hips must remain level or below shoulders. No extreme acro/flex.
Ragdoll spin, Sunwheel spins, Ankle hold side spin, Flares
Superman
Hood ornament with pit grip (one 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/Bomb drops
