The Latin Dance Crown celebrates the true essence of Latin dance, honoring dancers who embody the authenticity and vitality of each rhythm. We aim to crown those who, through creative and dynamic choreography, can translate the spirit and musicality of their chosen style, maintaining timing and respecting the fundamental characteristics of each dance.
The ideal competitor is one who makes the stage an extension of themselves, skillfully using the space with technical precision. Their interpretation should be intense and harmonious, reflecting a deep connection between movement and music. Expressiveness is essential: we seek dancers who convey emotion, confidence, and energy, creating a memorable and engaging performance for the audience and judges.
At the Latin Dance Crown, every movement tells a story, and each rhythm comes to life through an authentic and remarkable performance, celebrating the best of Latin dance and culture.
The competitions will take place from June 30th to July 2nd, 2026, starting at 10am. All competitors should stay updated with announcements on the official Instagram of the competition.
Category schedules can be followed in real-time on the Podium app.
Participation and Registration
Media and Liability
Choreography and Performance
Scoring and Judging
1. Categories that qualifies for CASH prize are as follows; Professional Division 1st Place Winners under Salsa Couples ON1, Salsa Couples ON2, Bachata Couples Classic, Salsa Couples Cabaret, Bachata Couples Cabaret for the amount of $1000*. For Solos, Same Genders, Salsa Open Group and Queer Salsa Open for the amount of $500*.
*Please read Special Conditions.
2. Categories that qualifies for a teaching contract with Orlando Salsa Congress 2026 are as follows: Professional Division 1st Place Winners under Salsa Couples ON1, Salsa Couples ON2, and Bachata Couples Classic. The contract consists of an additional $300 for teaching and performing at OSC2026 and it includes 1 room from Friday – Sunday.
3. LDC2026 Youth categories that qualify for a (1 ticket entrance) to a 1 day park to park pass for Universal/Islands of Adventures are as follows; 1st Place Winners under Salsa Solo ages 14-17, Salsa Solo 10-13, Bachata Solo 7-9, Bachata Solo 4-6 – both female and male. In order to qualify, there must be a minimum of 5 registered competitors in each category.
4. Youth categories do not qualify for monetary prizes however the category they win 1st place in LDC2026 will be comped for LDC2027. All competitors will still need a Full pass in order to compete and we will offer 10% discount on the Full Pass for any 1st place winners in the Youth Category if purchased by June 1st, 2026. Please keep in mind this is only valid for previous year winners. For example, LDC2025 winners will get this discount for LDC2026 and LDC2026 winners will get this discount for LDC2027.
5. The school/company that wins the most medals – gold having the most value, will win $500 cash prize. In order to qualify, the school/company name must be consistent when registering in order for our score system (Podium) to evaluate correctly. If the error is made where the school/company name is not added before competition starts then it will not be qualified.
Special Conditions
1. Amateurs
Definition: Category for dancers with a solid foundation of knowledge and intermediate experience but who do not make a living from dance and are not paid for related activities.
Criteria:
• Experience: Between 1 and 3 years of consistent practice, regularly attending classes and workshops with limited competition experience.
• Technique and Execution: Must demonstrate rhythm control, understanding of intermediate techniques, and clean execution of steps and sequences.
• Style and Interpretation: Musicality is a factor, and interpretation starts to carry more weight. Dancers should be able to interpret rhythmic changes and musical accents.
• Work Factors: Amateurs do not teach dance classes or receive payment for performances. They may participate in amateur presentations or shows as part of a team but are unpaid for these activities.
• Competition Goal: Encourage technical and artistic development, enhancing stage confidence.
Regulation Note: The amateur category allows for more advanced techniques than the Student level. Dancers are not paid and do not work as dance instructors.
2. Semiprofessionals / RISING STAR
Definition: Category for dancers with a high technical level who have experience in competitions and performances and may be involved in paid dance activities but do not yet make a full-time living from dance.
Criteria:
• Experience: Typically more than 3 years of intensive practice with frequent competition participation. These dancers may have dance projects, but their career is still in transition.
• Technique and Execution: Should demonstrate advanced techniques, such as multiple spins and complex sequences, with precision and control.
• Style and Interpretation: Musicality must be refined, with artistic interpretation and confident exploration of rhythmic nuances, breaks, and variations.
• Work Factors: Semiprofessionals may occasionally be paid for performances and participate in classes as assistants. They may also teach at basic or amateur levels, but dance is not their primary source of income.
• Competition Goal: Assess readiness for transitioning to the professional level, developing technical and interpretive skills for high-level performance.
Regulation Note: Semiprofessionals may be paid for occasional performances and work but do not make a living exclusively from dance and do not have a regular schedule of professional teaching and shows.
3. Professionals
Definition: Category for dancers who have made dance their career and operate at the highest technical, artistic, and interpretive levels.
Criteria:
• Experience: More than 5 years of intensive practice, with a history of competitions, performances, teaching, and professional performance activities.
• Technique and Execution: Complete mastery of complex and advanced techniques. Execution should be precise, with total control over movement, rhythm, and interpretation.
• Style and Interpretation: Musicality and expressiveness are highly refined. Musical interpretation is profound and focused on creating an emotional connection with the audience.
• Work Factors: Professionals are paid to teach, choreograph, compete, and perform. They make a living from dance as their primary career and have a regular schedule of classes, workshops, and performances.
• Competition Goal: Set the standard for excellence and promote innovation, elevating technical and artistic interpretation in dance.
• Regulation Note: Professional dancers make a living from dance and have an established reputation. The requirement for technical and artistic mastery is at its highest, and they are consistently paid for their activities.
• Solo Shines: Individual performance showcasing footwork and shines.
• Duet Shines: A category for two dancers performing synchronized foot and arm movements, with minimal physical contact. The emphasis is on technique, precision and style.
• Trio Shines: A category for 3 dancers performing synchronized foot and arm movements, with minimal physical contact. The emphasis is on technique, precision and style.
• Couples: Partner performances, focusing on lead and follow techniques and connection.
• Shines Groups: Group performances featuring coordinated shines and footwork.
• Partner Groups: Group performances focusing on partner work and synchronized choreography.
• Same Gender Couple: A couple category featuring two dancers of the same gender, showing connection and versatility in lead and follow roles.
• Queer: An inclusive category open to all LGBTQ+ identities, allowing free expression and diverse representation in lead and connection dynamics between dancers.
Solos:
Competitors should focus their choreography on the essence and character of the chosen rhythm, expressing musicality and technical control. Creativity is encouraged, using the rhythm authentically and presenting choreography that preserves the style’s identity. The organization advises judges to prioritize style fidelity and musical interpretation, valuing traditional steps and creative movements.
Couples:
In addition to representing the essence of the chosen rhythm, couples should explore creativity in figures and combinations, demonstrating strong connection and flow in lead and follow techniques. Partner chemistry, harmony in execution, and leading technique are essential factors. Acrobatics should be integrated in a way that maintains the rhythm’s authenticity and partner connection.
Pro-Am Couple:
In the Pro/Am category, the evaluation focuses exclusively on the student. The amateur competitor’s performance and progress are the primary scoring criteria. The instructor serves as the dance partner but will not be evaluated
•Duet Shines: A category for two dancers performing a synchronized choreography, highlighting footwork, musicality, and arm movements, with minimal physical contact for transitions or choreographic effects. Precision, technique, harmony, and creativity in shines are expected, maintaining visual connection and synchronization without constant contact.
Small Group/Shines or Couple: Minimum of 4 participants and Maximum of 6 participants
Large Group/Shines or Couple: Minimum of 8 participants
Shines Group:
Shines groups should present choreography that emphasizes coordination and synchronization among members, exploring footwork and rhythm-specific steps. Musicality and movement precision should reflect the style’s essence, and dancer integration should highlight collective flow and energy. Creativity and authenticity are fundamental to this category.
Partner Group:
Partner groups should create choreography that combines synchronization and fluidity in transitions between pairs, maintaining rhythm authenticity and emphasizing the execution of characteristic style movements. Each couple should demonstrate connection and lead-follow technique while the group shows visual and choreographic unity.
Pro-Am Group:
In group categories, the evaluation considers collective performance, with a focus on synchronization, visual unity, technical execution, and rhythm authenticity. All members are assessed on their ability to perform the choreography cohesively and harmoniously, highlighting integration among participants and the authenticity of the dance style.
Introduction: General Definitions
• In the Classic categories, where dancers must keep at least one foot on the floor, the couple may perform tricks and dips with up to two adjustments or direction changes during the movement, maintaining fluidity and continuity.
• If more than two adjustments or direction changes are made, the movement will be considered two separate movements rather than a single dip or trick.
• All tricks and dips must be fluid and continuous, preserving the harmony of rhythm and style.
Lifts: Any lift that goes above the waist level of the supporting dancer, requiring mutual support from both the man and the woman. This movement depends on mutual support from the dancers, allowing the lift to be held in a controlled and safe manner.
Tricks: Acrobatic movements that require partner support and can be performed either in the air or on the ground. A trick can involve both feet on the ground or suspended, but always with support between the dancers to execute the movement.
Musicality and Rhythm
• Salsa: This category requires a deep understanding of musical timing and salsa’s rhythmic structure, traditionally danced on On1 or On2. Salsa music follows an 8-count structure within a 4/4 time signature. In On1, dancers initiate movement on the first strong beat of the musical phrase (count 1), aligning with the main downbeat. In On2, the first step is taken on the second count of the phrase, emphasizing the “break” on count 2 and accenting count 6, closely aligning with the clave rhythm and creating a more organic connection to the salsa’s rhythmic foundation.
Musicality is marked by interaction with percussion elements, such as the clave (2-3 or 3-2), congas, and timbales, which guide movement accents. Salsa’s rhythm is fast, with dynamic weight shifts that give the dance its unmistakable energy and fluidity. Dancers are encouraged to explore pauses and syncopations, emphasizing off-beats to build a rhythmic narrative that resonates with the nuances of the music.
Category: Classic
Movements and Restrictions:
• Dips and Holds: Up to 5 dips or floor tricks are permitted throughout the routine. Movements must be harmonious, integrating with the style and rhythm of salsa.
• Feet on the Ground: Both dancers must keep at least one foot on the ground at all times while dancing in physical contact, with no lifts or aerial movements.
• Spins: Maximum of 8 bars/32 pulses/4 counts of 8 for continuous spins, maintaining the flow and rhythm of salsa.
• Essence of Rhythm: At least 90% of the routine must consist of specific salsa movements. Up to 10% of other styles or fusions are permitted, as long as they do not compromise the rhythm.
• Music and Editing: The choice of music, editing and speed adjustments are the sole responsibility of the competitor. The music must be salsa, and up to two songs of the same genre and style may be edited. The inclusion of songs of other rhythms is not permitted.
Category: Cabaret
Movements and Restrictions:
• Acrobatics and Technique: Up to 65% dance and 35% acrobatic elements are allowed. Acrobatics must be integrated with the style, maintaining the essence and flow of salsa.
• Feet on the Floor: Aerial movements and lifts are allowed, respecting the 35% limit for acrobatic elements.
• Turns: Turns are limited to 4 sets of 8 beats.
• Essence of Rhythm: The choreography must be 90% salsa movements, with up to 10% fusion with other styles, provided it does not compromise the essence of salsa.
• Music and Editing: Music choice, editing, and speed adjustments are the competitor’s responsibility, with the same permissions as in the Classic category.
Musicality and Rhythm
• Bachata follows a 4-beat count (1-2-3, tap on 4), where the fourth beat is emphasized with a soft, expressive tap. This tap serves as a rhythmic pause and is characteristic of the style, requiring precise musicality and body control from the dancers to highlight bachata’s unique timing.
Category: Classic
Movements and Restrictions:
• Dips and Supports: Up to 5 dips or floor tricks are allowed throughout the choreography. They should be executed smoothly, respecting the traditional bachata style.
• Feet on the Floor: Both dancers must keep at least one foot on the floor at all times, with no aerial movements or lifts.
• Turns: A maximum of 2 sets of 8 beats is allowed for turns (16 beats), respecting bachata’s smoothness and flow.
• Essence of Rhythm: At least 90% of the choreography must consist of specific bachata movements, with up to 10% fusion with other styles, provided it does not compromise the authenticity of the rhythm.
• Music and Editing: Music choice, editing, and speed adjustments are the competitor’s responsibility. The music must be bachata, and up to two songs of the same genre and style may be edited.
Category: Cabaret
Movements and Restrictions:
• Acrobatics and Technique: Up to 65% dance and 35% acrobatic elements are allowed. Acrobatics should be integrated with the bachata style, maintaining its flow and musicality.
• Feet on the Floor: Aerial movements and lifts are allowed, respecting the 35% limit for acrobatic elements.
• Turns: A maximum of 4 sets of 8 beats is allowed for turns. Turns should be executed with control, without compromising technique and musicality.
• Essence of Rhythm: At least 90% of the choreography must consist of specific bachata movements, with up to 10% fusion with other styles, as long as it does not compromise the essence of the style.
• Music and Editing: Music choice, editing, and speed adjustments are entirely the competitor’s responsibility. The music must be bachata and may include up to two songs of the same genre, preserving the style’s
Rhythm and Timing:
• Cuban salsa is characterized by its circularity and unique flavor, where dancers move around each other. This style allows for a broad rhythmic interpretation and can be danced On1, On2, or On3, depending on the competitor’s preference.
• The standard count is 8 beats (1-2-3, pause on 4; 5-6-7, pause on 8), honoring the roots of Cuban son and integrating the essence of Cuban style.
Movements and Restrictions:
• Dips and Supports: Up to 5 dips or floor tricks are allowed throughout the choreography. They should be integrated in a way that respects the authenticity of the Cuban style, with technique and precision.
• Feet on the Floor: Both dancers must keep at least one foot on the floor at all times, preserving the authentic character of Cuban salsa, which does not include lifts or aerial movements.
• Style Fusion: Up to 10% of other styles may be used, provided the essence of Cuban salsa is preserved throughout the choreography.
• Music Fusion: Competitors may use up to two Cuban salsa or Cuban son songs, as long as both are of the same musical genre.
• Essence of Rhythm: The choreography should predominantly consist of traditional Cuban salsa movements, with influences from rumba and Afro-Cuban, without excessive fusion that compromises the style.
Rhythm and Timing:
• Chá chá chá is danced with an 8-beat count (1-2-3, pause on 4; 5-6-7, cha cha cha on 8), characterized by the “cha cha cha” sequence between beats 4 and 8. This movement defines the rhythm, requiring rhythmic precision and technical control from the dancers.
• Key Element: Elegance and Rhythmic Precision – Cha cha cha is an elegant and steady-paced style. Dancers’ interpretation should capture the essence of the rhythm with controlled movements aligned to musicality.
Movements and Restrictions:
• Dips and Supports: Up to 5 dips or floor tricks are allowed throughout the choreography, integrated in a way that preserves the sophistication and fluidity of cha cha cha.
• Feet on the Floor: Both dancers must keep at least one foot on the floor during the entire dance, without lifts or aerial movements.
• Style Fusion: A maximum of 10% fusion with other styles is allowed, provided the essence of cha cha cha is maintained.
• Music Fusion: Up to two cha cha cha songs of the same genre may be used, respecting the authenticity of the style.
• Essence of Rhythm: The choreography should be predominantly composed of cha cha cha movements, without excessive fusion that compromises the style.
authenticity.These guidelines ensure that each category respects the essence of each style, maintaining coherence between traditional techniques and choreographic innovation within the established proportions.
To ensure a professional presentation that enhances the dance performance, all competitors must follow the guidelines regarding costumes, shoes, and personal presentation. Non-compliance with these rules may result in penalties.
1. Suitability of attire:
• Children: Must wear shorts appropriate for the attire that adequately cover the torso and legs, ensuring safety and comfort.
• Junior: For the lower part, they must wear attire similar to that of gymnasts, such as leotards that provide adequate support and coverage.
• In both categories, bikinis are not permitted for girls, and attire must be age-appropriate, modest and comfortable.
2. Dance shoes:
• Specific dance shoes: All competitors must wear dance shoes appropriate for the style. Sneakers, ballet flats or dance shoes are not permitted.
• In the kids 4 to 6 categories, the use of dance slippers is permitted.
• Heel height: A minimum heel height of 2 cm is required for competitors in the Children and Junior categories.
• Barefoot: Dancing barefoot is not permitted.
3. Use of socks:
• Socks are mandatory.
• Women and girls: Must wear fishnet stockings appropriate for dance, completing the costume in a professional manner.
• Men and boys: Must wear appropriate stockings that complement the male costume.
4. Makeup and hairstyle:
• All competitors must wear appropriate makeup to enhance facial expressions during the performance.
• Hairstyle must be secure and appropriate so that it does not fall apart during the performance. Girls must ensure that their hairstyle remains intact throughout the performance.
5. Accessories and emblems and symbols prohibited:
• The use of accessories such as hats, caps, flags, shields or emblems that refer to countries, cultures, religious cults, trademarks or any symbol with cultural, political or religious connotations is not permitted.
• Accessories such as headpieces or earrings must remain secure throughout the dance.
6. Costume integrity:
• If the costume tears, opens, falls or interferes with the execution of the routine, the competitor will be penalized with point deductions.
1. Costume Appropriateness:
• All competitors must wear costumes appropriate for the dance style and rhythm, enhancing the presentation while maintaining professionalism.
• Women should avoid wearing extremely small bikinis or thong-style bottoms to ensure the costume respects the elegance of the dance.
2. Dance Shoes:
• Specific Dance Shoes: All competitors must wear appropriate dance shoes for the style. Sneakers, ballet flats, or dance sneakers are not allowed.
• Heel Height:
• Women: Minimum heel height of 5 cm.
• Men: Must wear shoes with a minimum heel height of 2 cm.
• Barefoot: Dancing barefoot is not allowed in any category.
3. Use of Stockings:
• Stockings are mandatory for all competitors.
• Women: Must wear fishnet stockings suitable for dance, completing the costume professionally.
• Men: Must wear appropriate socks that complement the male costume.
4. Rules for Male Costumes:
• Shirt Requirement: Men are required to wear a shirt or upper garment. Competing shirtless is not permitted.
• Prohibition of Leggings: Men are not allowed to wear leggings.
5. Accessories and Prohibitions on Emblems and Symbols:
• The use of accessories such as hats, caps, flags, shields, or emblems referencing countries, cultures, religious worship, commercial brands, or any symbol with cultural, political, or religious connotations is not allowed.
• Accessories such as head decorations or earrings must remain secure throughout the dance.
6. Makeup and Hairstyle:
• All competitors must wear appropriate makeup to enhance facial expressions during the performance.
• The hairstyle should be secured and appropriate, so it does not come undone during the performance. Women must ensure their hairstyle remains intact throughout the presentation.
7. Costume Integrity:
• The costume must be in perfect condition. If the costume tears, opens, falls, or hinders the performance of the routine, the competitor will be penalized with point deductions.
1. Technique 15%
• Movement Precision: Correct execution of steps and movements specific to the style.
• Posture and Body Alignment: Proper use of posture and alignment throughout the dance.
• Control and Balance: Demonstrating body control, especially during spins, dips, and rapid movements.
• Execution of Spins and Dips: Precision and fluidity in spins and dips, maintaining control and rhythm.
2. Timing 20%
• Consistency in Timing: Demonstrating the ability to consistently maintain the chosen timing (On1, On2, etc.) throughout the performance, without deviations.
• Accuracy in Musical Timing: Synchronizing each movement with precision to the beats and pauses in the music, showcasing rhythmic control and technical mastery.
• Accents and Transitions: Executing transitions, accents, and rhythm changes without losing the established timing, maintaining a continuous and harmonious flow with the music.
3. Musicality 15%
• Musical Synchronization: Ability to follow the rhythm and musical nuances with sensitivity, adapting to melodic and percussive elements.
• Musical Expression: Connecting with the music, demonstrating emotional interpretation and adapting to moments of intensity and softness in the music.
• Utilization of Musical Dynamics: Highlighting the depth of musical interpretation, bringing out nuances and variations that enhance the choreography.
4. Expression, Stage Presence, and Visual Impact 10%
• Expression and Interpretation: Use of facial and body expressions that reflect the emotion of the music and choreography, showing harmony and connection.
• Energy and Confidence: The competitor should exhibit stage presence, self-confidence, and poise throughout the performance, engaging the audience and showing a strong stage presence.
• Costume and Visual Appropriateness: The costume should complement the dance style and enhance the performance, remaining intact throughout the presentation and not hindering movement execution. Hairstyling and makeup should reinforce the dance style.
5. Choreography and Creativity 10%
• Originality and Complexity of Choreography: Creativity in movements and sequences, bringing something unique.
• Dynamics and Variation: Intelligent use of different levels of intensity and speed in the choreography.
• Use of Stage and Space: Strategic and broad movement across the stage, creatively utilizing the space.
6. Connection and Synchronization (Individual, Couple, and Group) 15%
• For Solos (Individual): Synchronization in solo performances refers to accuracy with the music and consistency in internal movements and transitions, demonstrating complete body control and rhythmic mastery.
• For Duets (Couples): Evaluation includes coordination and connection between partners, synchronization of movements, and chemistry between both dancers, as well as clear leadership and following. Movements should flow harmoniously between partners, reflecting unity and cooperation.
• For Groups: Synchronization involves coordination among all dancers, with emphasis on uniformity of movements and group transitions. Connection among group members should be evident, demonstrating cohesion and consistency in executing the choreography.
7. Level of Difficulty 15%
• Complexity of Movements: Execution of advanced movements, such as multiple spins, complex dips, or acrobatic elements (when permitted).
• Control and Precision in Challenging Movements: Performing challenging movements with stability and mastery.
Categories (Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha Cha, and Cuban Salsa)
General Rules for Music Selection and Submission
1. Genre-Specific Music:
• All music must be specific to the chosen genre. Salsa, Bachata, Chá Chá Chá, and Salsa Cubana routines must use authentic music that corresponds to the selected style.
2. Performance Duration:
•SOLOS: Minimum duration of 1:30 (one minute and thirty seconds) and a Maximum of 2:30 (two minutes and thirty seconds).
•COUPLES/DUETS: Minimum duration of 1:30 (one minute and thirty seconds) and a Maximum of 2:00 (two minutes).
•GROUPS: Minimum duration of 2:00 (two minutes) and a Maximum of 2:30 (two minutes and thirty seconds).
3. Music Responsibility:
• The competitor is fully responsible for the selection, editing, and speed adjustment of their music.
4. Music Submission and Verification:
• Competitors must upload their music to the Podium platform before the competition.
• The day before the competition, competitors may check their music with the organizers and DJs to ensure that the file is correct and ready for use.
5. Backup Copy:
• As a backup, competitors must bring a USB drive with their music on the day of the competition.
6. Prohibited Elements in Music:
• Mixing songs from different genres, national anthems, religious hymns, or any music that compromises the authenticity of the chosen genre is strictly prohibited
Following the Latin Dance Crown rules is essential to ensure a fair, transparent, and high-level competition. Adhering to these guidelines reflects each competitor’s professionalism and commitment to the event and the art of dance. Penalties will be applied when rules are violated, impacting the competitor’s overall score.
1. Application of Penalties
• Penalty for Rule Violations: Each rule violation will result in a 1-point deduction from the competitor’s overall score. Penalties will be accumulated and deducted from the final score.
• Authority to Penalize: Only the Head Judge and the Latin Dance Crown organization have the authority to penalize competitors, ensuring consistency and credibility in all decisions.
2. Specific Penalty Rules
Backstage Check-in and Stage Positioning:
• Competitors must check in backstage 1 hour before the start of their category. Failure to do so will result in a 1-point deduction from the final score.
• After being called backstage, the competitor will be directed to position behind the stage for their performance. If they are not present when called to the stage, they will be disqualified.
Exceeding Spin Limit:
• If a competitor executes more spins than permitted for their category, a 1-point deduction will be applied to their overall score.
3. Classic Categories – Unauthorized Elevations:
• In Classic categories, competitors who lift both feet off the ground with the support of their partner will receive a 1-point deduction from the final score.
• Jumps initiated by the competitor themselves, without assistance from a partner, are allowed and will not result in a penalty.
4. Violation of Costume, Music, and General Rules:
• Failing to follow any rules regarding costume, music, or other general guidelines will result in a 1-point deduction per violation. Each infraction will be summed and deducted from the competitor’s final score.
5. Penalty Review and Score Confirmation:
• After the competition ends, competitors cannot request the cancellation of penalties or score adjustments. All penalty reviews must be completed before the announcement of final scores to ensure transparency and credibility.