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AWARDS SYLLABUS
NEW ZEALAND
💙🩵 SADI Gratitude Dance Awards Entries Are Open Now! 🩵💙
Entries for the 2026 SADI Gratitude Dance Awards are now open via the Comp World App.
📲 Enter here:
https://direct.compworld.co.nz?competitionId=dd9e0f1e-f638-4459-a02c-fff993119b63
Please make sure you get your entries in as soon as possible, as spaces may be limited.
We cannot wait to celebrate an incredible few days of dance, passion, performance, and gratitude with you all! ✨
We will do our very best to schedule the genres as follows:
Saturday: Ballet, Contemporary, Musical Theatre and Tap
Sunday: Acro, Hip Hop, Jazz and Lyrical
We usually begin with our youngest performers and work our way up to the older age groups.
Thursday and Friday sessions will only take place after school hours, and we will focus more on our older students, with mixed genres scheduled across these days.
We have also removed the minimum time limits, as these were only intended as a guide.
THE S A D I GRATITUDE DANCE AWARDS SYLLABUS
IS ISSUED BY
SYLLABI FOR ARTISTS IN DANCE INTERNATIONAL
AND IS CONSIDERED
THE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OF S A D I
FULL COPYRIGHT EXISTS 1997
FOR THE LOVE & APPRECIATION OF DANCE
Welcome to the Syllabi for Artists in Dance International (SADI) Gratitude Dance Awards in New Zealand!
Since 1997, SADI has proudly hosted competitions in South Africa, and we are thrilled to now be running this exciting new platform in the vibrant dance community of New Zealand.
The SADI Gratitude Dance Awards is an inclusive dance competition platform designed for everyone, welcoming full studio participation. It's ideal for Beginners, Amateurs, and Ultimate Champion soloists, as well as Duos, Trios, Quartets, Groups and Troupes or Teams. This is more than just a competition—it's a celebration where every dancer can shine. We create special moments for all, offering a supportive space for newcomers to build stage confidence and experienced performers to grow and showcase their talent.
SADI’s vision is to create a safe and supportive environment where performers can thrive and reach their full potential. We are dedicated to offering opportunities that inspire participation and growth across all areas of the Performing Arts.
The SADI Gratitude Dance Awards is a non-professional dance competition, open to dancers who are passionate about performing but not currently working as professionals in the industry.
DATE AND VENUE
22 - 23 August 2026
Long Bay College, Auditorium
30 Ashley Avenue, Long Bay Auckland
GRAND FINALE
23 August 2026
(No door fees, All Welcome!)
The Ultimate SADI Dance Champion awards will be announced as part of the Grand Finale on the closing night of the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards.
Selected performers, chosen by our adjudicators, as well as the highest-scoring Group in each class, will automatically qualify to perform again in the Grand Finale.
Please ensure performers bring their performance outfit with them in case they are selected to perform in the Grand Finale.
If selected, performers must confirm their attendance with the office.
The Grand Finale marks a spectacular conclusion to the event, offering a memorable celebration of talent and achievement to close the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards.
DATES FOR ENTRIES
1 July 2026 - 5 July 2026
Unless Maximum Entry Numbers Are Reached.
All entries must be submitted online through the dance app provided.
COMPULSORY SOLO PERFORMER ADMINISTRATION FEE $30.00
This fee grants solo performers access to the auditorium, along with entry for one parent/guardian during Solo Classes. Passes can be collected backstage upon arrival at the theatre.
CLASS ENTRY FEES
Solos:
All Solo Entry Fees: $30
All Improv Entry Fees: $30
DTQ (Duo/Trio/Quartet):
$35.00
Groups:
$50.00
Troupe or Teams:
$50.00
Family DTQ’S:
$20.00 per family
Entries will only be accepted once full payment has been received.
Entry fees are non-refundable for performers who are unable to attend after entering, except in cases of illness or injury supported by a valid medical certificate.
If the Dance Awards are unable to proceed due to a pandemic, natural disaster, or other circumstances beyond our control, entries will be carried forward to the next available date for the competition to proceed.
Please ensure all entry details are correct before submitting. Any changes to class entries or corrections after submission may incur a $5 administration fee.
Entry fees are non-transferable.
GENERAL DOOR FEE: $5.00 per day
All non-performing audience members are required to purchase a daily wristband to enter the venue. Wristbands can be purchased from the tuck shop and must be worn at all times while inside the theatre.
We kindly ask that wristbands are not shared between guests. Your support helps us continue to grow the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards and makes it possible for us to keep presenting this event for our dance community.
Studio owners and registered dance teachers from participating studios will receive complimentary entry to the theatre. Please email your details to us in advance so we can prepare your complimentary pass for collection.
AGE GROUPS
Performers' ages will be determined as of 1 August 2026. Proof of date of birth must be provided upon request. All performers must enter age-appropriate classes. Please note that age groups may be combined or split at the discretion of SADI to ensure fair and balanced competition.
SOLO
Tiny Performers: 4 & under
Petite: 5–6 years
Mini: 7–9 years
Junior: 10 -12 years
Teen: 13–15 years
Senior: 16 years and over
GROUP
7 & Under
12 & Under
13 & Over
Calculation for the average age of all performers in DTQ’S and Groups:
(Example)
6 x Performers per Group
(Dancer 1 (6yrs)/ Dancer 2 (8yrs)/Dancer 3 (10yrs)/Dancer 4 (7yrs)/Dancer 5 (5yrs)/Dancer 6 (10yrs)
= Total of 46 combined ÷ 6 Performers. Gives you an average of 8 yrs.
Entry for Age Group will be 7-8 yrs.
DANCE STYLES
Each dance style must remain true to its specific technique and characteristics. Styles not listed will be entered under the Open category.
Acro Dance
Ballet
Classical Solo (No Pointe)
Classical Solo (Pointe)
Neo Classical
Barefoot
Demi Character
National Character
Character
Contemporary
(A maximum of three tricks is permitted per routine—any additional tricks will result in a -1 point deduction per extra trick. If a routine includes more than three tricks, it must be entered in the Open class.)
Traditional Contemporary
(A maximum of three tricks is permitted per routine—any additional tricks will result in a -1 point deduction per extra trick. If a routine includes more than three tricks, it must be entered in the Open class.)
Hip Hop
(A maximum of three tricks is permitted per routine—any additional tricks will result in a -1 point deduction per extra trick. If a routine includes more than three tricks, it must be entered in the Open class.)
Jazz
(A maximum of three tricks is permitted per routine—any additional tricks will result in a -1 point deduction per extra trick. If a routine includes more than three tricks, it must be entered in the Open class.)
Lyrical
(A maximum of three tricks is permitted per routine—any additional tricks will result in a -1 point deduction per extra trick. If a routine includes more than three tricks, it must be entered in the Open class.)
Musical Theatre
(A maximum of three tricks is permitted per routine—any additional tricks will result in a -1 point deduction per extra trick. If a routine includes more than three tricks, it must be entered in the Open class.)
Tap
Slow Tap
Waltz Tap
Latin/Tango Tap
Speed Tap
Student Choreography
(A solo routine choreographed entirely by the dancer, without teacher input, guidance, or assistance.)
CLASS STATUS, CLASS INFORMATION and CLASS PRIZES
If your class status changes due to results from other competitions before the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards, you will remain in the same status as recorded on the day your entry was submitted.
SOLO ENTRIES
There is no limit to the number of solos a performer may enter, with the following conditions:
Performers are expected to enter all classes honestly and accurately. Please ensure each entry is placed in the correct section, as incorrect entries may result in disqualification with No Refund.
Performers may not enter more than one solo in the same class. If a performer wishes to enter a second solo in the same dance style with different choreography, it must be entered in the Open class.
The same routine may only be performed more than once if it is entered in the “Second Chance” class.
Performers may not enter a class below or above their correct level.
All solo entries will receive a button badge and an online adjudicator’s report.
Placings are awarded using a Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, or Star Award scoring system. This means every solo performer is recognised according to their individual score. Highest 1st Place, following with 2nd Place, 3rd Place and 4th & 5th mentions in each class.
Special Awards may also be presented to recognise standout performances. These awards are not based on scores, but are given to encourage and uplift performers by celebrating unique and memorable moments on stage.
Performers Debut
This class is designed for beginner performers who have never performed a solo on stage before. Performers may enter this class once only.
Restricted Solo
This class is for performers who have previous stage experience.
Open Solo
This class is for performers who wish to enter an additional routine for extra stage experience and exposure. This section carries no status level, and ages and styles may be combined. A solo that has already been entered in another class may not be re-entered in this class. The same routine may only be performed more than once if it is entered in the “Second Chance” class.
Any solo containing more than three acro tricks must be entered in this class.
Improv Solo
Performers will take part in short impromptu dances of approximately 30–45 seconds. All performers will begin on stage in a line and will dance one at a time to a continuous piece of music. Adjudicators will be looking for rhythm, style, timing, performance quality, and technique. Music may be straight or character-based. The performance order will be decided by a number draw. Each performer will be given a number to wear, which must be pinned on and returned after the section. All performers will remain on stage behind a closed curtain to listen to the music once. Once the track has finished, the music will play again. Each performer’s number will then be announced, and they will step forward to improvise their dance. After completing their individual impromptu, performers should return to their starting position to allow space for the next dancer. Once all performers have completed their individual impromptus, everyone will dance together for one final performance. Any costume of your choice may be worn. Studio uniform is not required.
Second Chance Solo
Second Chance is only from age 7-9. If you would like to perform your solo a second time, this is the correct class to enter. Ages and styles may be combined.
Students Choreography
A solo routine choreographed entirely by the dancer, without teacher / parent input, guidance, or assistance. Students Choreography is only from age 7-9.
Ultimate SADI Dance Champion
Do you want to become the Ultimate SADI Dance Champion 2026?
This section is only open to performers who have entered the current SADI Gratitude Dance Awards. Performers must be aged 7–9 years or older and must be entered in Restricted or Open solo classes only.
This will be a separate entry. All dance styles will be considered together within the appropriate age group.
The Ultimate SADI Dance Champion awards will be announced as part of the Grand Finale on the closing night of the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards. Times are to be confirmed. Awards will be presented as follows: Highest 1st Place, followed by 2nd Place, 3rd Place, and 4th and 5th Special Mentions.
DUO / TRIO / QUARTET / GROUP and TROUPE / TEAMS & Family Fun ENTRIES
Performers are expected to enter all classes honestly and accurately. Please ensure each entry is placed in the correct section, as incorrect entries may result in disqualification with No Refund.
Performers may not enter more than one DTQ or Group in the same class. If performers wish to enter a second DTQ or Group in the same dance style with different choreography, it must be entered in the Open class.
All entries will receive an online adjudicator’s report.
Placings are awarded using a Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, or Star Award scoring system. This means every performer is recognised according to their individual score. Highest 1st Place, following with 2nd Place, 3rd Place and 4th & 5th mentions in each class.
Special Awards may also be presented to recognise standout performances. These awards are not based on scores, but are given to encourage and uplift performers by celebrating unique and memorable moments on stage.
All DTQs must be entered according to the average age of the performers.
Classes may be split or combined depending on the number of entries received.
The highest-scoring Group in each class, will automatically qualify to perform again in the Grand Finale.
DTQ’s
(Duo: Combination of 2 performers) (Trio: Combination of 3 performers) (Quartet: Combination of 4 performers)
Novice
This class is for DTQs that have never performed at any competition before.
Restricted
This class is for DTQs that have previously performed at a competition.
Open
This class is for performers who wish to enter more than one DTQ, with different choreography.
Group
(Combination of 5+ performers or more)
Novice
This class is for Groups that have never performed at any competition before.
Restricted
This class is for Groups that have previously performed at a competition.
Open
This class is for performers who wish to enter more than one Group, with different choreography.
Troupe / Teams
For the Big Guns! This class is for competitive troupes or teams with previous competition experience.
Family Fun
This class is exclusively for family members who would like to dance together, including mothers, fathers, aunties, uncles, daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, cousins, and other family members.
Family Fun is a fun, standalone class with no age groups or status levels.
SADI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SPLIT OR AMALGAMATE CLASSES DEPENDING ON ENTRIES.
TIME LIMITS
Performers Debut: max 2:30 minutes
Restricted: max 3.30 minutes
Open Class: max 3.30 minutes
DTQ: max 3.30 minutes
Group: max 5:00 minutes
Troupes / Teams: max 5:00 minutes
Family Section: max 4:00 minutes
SCORING SYSTEM
We pride ourselves on having a balanced and fair scoring system.
We understand that dance can be very subjective, which is why our scoring guidelines have been designed to support consistency and fairness across all categories. Our easy-to-follow score sheet helps performers better understand their results, feedback, and adjudicator comments. The aim of our scoring system is to encourage growth, celebrate progress, and help students continue improving with confidence at future competitions.
Technique
Ease of Movement / Placement of Body
Execution of Technique and Style Specific Skills
Alignment / Extension
Difficulty
Degree of Difficulty
Quality of movement (Intensity / Strength)
Choreography
Musicality / Creativity / Originality
Routine staging / Formations / Transitions / Spacing
Performance
Projection, Energy, Intensity
Overall Impression & Entertainment Value
SCORES
95 -100 = Platinum Award
90 – 94 = Gold Award
80 – 89 = Silver Award
70 – 79 = Bronze Award
60 – 69 = Star Award
ULTIMATE SADI DANCE CHAMPION
Highest 1st Place, following with 2nd Place, 3rd Place and 4th & 5th mentions
TROUPE OR TEAMS
Highest 1st Place, following with 2nd Place, 3rd Place and 4th & 5th mentions
RESULTS AND SPECIAL AWARDS
On-Stage Results and Prize Giving
All performers who have participated in earlier classes are required to be on stage for the announcement of results. Results will be presented on stage during the scheduled prize giving, and no results will be released before prize giving takes place.
Why On-Stage Results Matter
Presenting results on stage is an important part of each dancer’s journey. It celebrates every performer’s effort in a meaningful and memorable way, while creating a shared experience that builds confidence, encourages sportsmanship, and helps foster lasting friendships. By keeping this tradition alive, we honour the spirit of dance and the joy of growing together as a community. All results will be announced on stage to support this vibrant, encouraging, and connected atmosphere.
Special Awards
Special Awards may also be presented to recognise standout performances. These awards are not based on scores, but are given to encourage and uplift performers by celebrating unique and memorable moments on stage.
JUDGES
At SADI, we are committed to selecting impartial, professional, and highly qualified dance adjudicators. All judges are carefully vetted and bring a wealth of experience from a wide range of dance backgrounds. Performers, parents, and teachers can expect our adjudicators to be professional, knowledgeable, and fair.
The adjudicator’s decision is final.
To ensure fairness and transparency, performers who have received coaching, instruction, or private training from any of the appointed judges within the past year are not eligible to compete. If you have any concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest or bias, please contact the SADI office at info@sadi-international.com.
Direct communication with judges by performers, parents, or teachers is strictly prohibited before and during the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards, even if there is a prior personal relationship. This includes social media contact, invitations, messaging, or the sharing of personal information.
Only SADI staff carrying out official event duties may communicate with adjudicators during the event.
By participating in the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards, all performers, parents, and teachers agree to respect the judging process and accept the adjudicators’ methods, feedback, and final decisions.
Our Judges for This Year
We are excited to introduce our adjudicators for this year’s SADI Gratitude Dance Awards. Our judges have been carefully selected for their professionalism, experience, and knowledge across a wide range of dance styles.
Denise Greyling / Celeste Dillon
They are looking forward to celebrating the hard work, passion, and talent of every performer who takes the stage.
S A D I COMPETITION RULES AND REGULATIONS
(S A D I reserves the right to determine the status and age of all Performers entering).
Parents and performers are NOT allowed in the office. Queries must be addressed via email info@sadi-international.com
Restart
Should a performer be injured or leave the stage during his/her performance, a two-minute recovery time will be given. The performer can restart without being penalised. Should it happen a second time, adjudication will be on what was presented.
Scratches
Scratches must be sent through by email at info@sadi-international.com before the start of each competing day.
Music Requirements
All music can be uploaded with entry. Please load music in Mp3 format. Please have a backup copy of music available on a separate USB.
Performances
Performers should dance in order as scheduled on program, although SADI reserves the right to amend the programme should special circumstances arise. NO solo Performers will be allowed to dance out of section. Performers must keep up with the program and be backstage, ready to dance 15 min before the scheduled time for their class. The Stage Manager will not be able to run around looking for performers. If not present when called on, the performer forfeits their chance to compete at the discretion of the Stage Manager. The Dance Awards may run earlier/later than scheduled.
Performers and Family or Friends
All performers, along with their family and friends, are expected to respect and uphold the rules and regulations of the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards. We ask everyone to foster a positive atmosphere by being supportive, polite, and considerate to all participants throughout the event.
Performers must demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times during the competition.
All participants and accompanying guests accept full responsibility for their own health and safety while attending the event. Although SADI will take every precaution to ensure a safe and welcoming environment, participation is at your own risk. SADI will not be held liable for any accidents, injuries, or unforeseen incidents that may occur. Please minimise movement and conversations within the theatre. Performers are responsible for keeping their dressing area clean and neat.
Acro & Tumbling Disclaimer
All Acro entries and any choreography involving Acro elements are performed at the performer’s own risk. Teachers are responsible for ensuring routines are safely choreographed and do not place dancers in danger. SADI does not accept responsibility for injuries resulting from incorrect technique or unsafe choreography.
Tumbling and other gymnastic elements are also undertaken at the performer’s own risk and are not classified as Acro.
SADI reserves the right to remove or stop any performance deemed unsafe at any point during the competition.
Appearance, Music Choice & Movement Guidelines
Performers must refrain from wearing visible body piercings, jewelry, or nail polish on stage, unless it is an intentional part of the costume.
All choreography, costuming, and music must be age-appropriate and suitable for a family-friendly audience. Material that is suggestive, vulgar, or offensive in nature—whether in movement, lyrics, or costume—will not be tolerated and may negatively impact the routine’s overall impression and score. “Vulgar or suggestive” includes any choreography that implies inappropriate, indecent, or overtly sexual content. Judges reserve the right to deduct points or disqualify routines that do not meet these standards, at their discretion. All performances should aim to be respectful, appropriate, and enjoyable for all audience members.
Stage Manager and Backstage
The management of the stage, backstage and dressing rooms are in the hands of the Stage Manager. Only performers and/or SADI staff will be permitted on the side or backstage area, with the exception of beginner Performers and 1x parent helping with props. All props must be free standing and as small and light as possible. Performers must set, and then remove their own props immediately after their dance if possible or 1x parent is allowed, and may watch performance from backstage. At the conclusion of the performance, all props and parents need to clear backstage immediately. If you have any "litter" on stage after a performance, have a broom ready to clean up immediately after the performance.
NO use of knives or fire.
Tap Shoes
No tap shoes may be worn in the theatre or corridors. Tap plates and screws must be checked before performances as these could damage the floor. NO ROSIN on the dance floor.
Social Media
Results and Photos of the weekend may be posted on Social Media and on the SADI Website. SADI reserves the right to use those images on social media. By submitting your entry, you agree to your name and photo being published.
Photography & Videoing
Only photos/videos of your own kids or students to be taken. Under no circumstances may a video recording be made on any device of any performer without their consent. Please refrain from using flash photography or anything similar that will be a distraction for Performers and/or audience members.
Loss of Property
SADI cannot take responsibility for loss of property during the Gratitude Dance Awards.
Mobile phone
All devices need to be muted.
Food & Drink
Refreshments will be available from the kitchen throughout the Competition. Please help us to keep the Auditorium clean and tidy and refrain from eating and drinking in the auditorium.
Unsupervised Children
Performers and siblings/friends, children under the age of 14 yrs need to be supervised at all times.
SPONSORSHIP
SADI Gratitude Dance Awards Sponsors or Sponsorship of Classes / Ultimate performer Bursary Awards are always appreciated.
Should you wish to sponsor, there is an option to include with your entry.
If you want to be a main sponsor please contact us at info@sadi-international.com
Performers and families are encouraged to tag the SADI Gratitude Dance Awards in their photos, videos, and special moments shared online. We love celebrating our dancers and seeing the joy, support, and memories created throughout the event.
Right of admission reserved. S A D I maintain the right to refuse entry into the competition or venue and or ask anyone to evacuate the premises at any time. By entering the SADI Dance Awards you accept all rules and regulations and will aim to help make this a well run and welcoming event for all involved.
May you begin and end the day with gratitude in your heart!