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COMPETITION RULES



ITC - International Talent Competition is a
competition directory and hosts event and workshops.

ITC offers a wide range of competitions locally,
online (virtual) Nationally and Internationally.

Rules & guidelines stated below apply to
any/all of ITC hosted competitions or events.



Registration Guidelines



Registration:

  • Entries can only be registered via the competition's official website via a form online. Strictly NO emailed entries will be accepted. (Excluding studio spreadsheets)
  • Entries will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and will be limited to the amount of entries available for each event.

Payment Requirement:

  • Entries must be fully paid before the competition closing date using the online payment gateway or in the form of an invoice for Studios. Confirmations are only issued upon full payment.

Registration Changes:

  • Changes can only be made to the entries during the draft period of the scheduling.
  • Competitors will receive a draft schedule with allocated time to review and make any changes.
  • Under no circumstances changes can not be made once the program has been uploaded to MusicUploads.

Payment Methods:

  • All payments are made via the allocated registration form or in the from of a payment link for any additional fees and studio spreadsheet registration.
  • Cards may incur a surcharges and taxes.

Currency:

  • Registration fees are in Australian dollars (AU).

Music Submission:

  • Music can only be provided via www.MusicUplaods.com.au
  • Entries failing to provide music via MusicUploads by the closing date may face penalties or rejection.

Event Schedule Alterations:

  • ITC reserves the right to adjust event dates. A transfer or refund options will be offered if competitors can't attend the new date.

Cancellation Policy:

  • ITC may cancel events for any reason. Transfer or refund options will be provided in case of cancellation.


Refunds and Transfers



Refunds:

  • Refunds are only permitted if an event is canceled or rescheduled by the event host. Once payment is made, the spot for the event is secured.
  • A refund for change of mind is possible only if the spot is covered by a waitlisted client. ​

Transfers:

  • Entries can be transferred to family members (e.g., siblings) and members from the same studio in the form of a credit.

Credit Form:

  • Credits are provided in the form of entries and are not available in monetary form.
  • Entries rolled over will stay valid until the end of the competition season, the calendar year, or the following year, at ITC's discretion.
  • Entries can only be postponed once and cannot be rescheduled again after that.

Refund Policy:

  • Full refunds are only granted if ITC cancels an event. Refunds will be deposited into the designated bank account, excluding any transactional fees incurred via the payment gateway.

Payment Gateway Fees:

  • Stripe payment gateway fees are as follows: Card Payments: 1.7% + A$0.30 Apple Pay (Wallet): 1.7% + A$0.30 Google Pay (Wallet): 1.7% + A$0.30 An additional 1.75% fee applies for payments made with international cards outside of Australia.
  • Note: Fees are subject to change. Please refer to the latest fee updates on the Stripe Pricing page.




Media Release & Confidentiality



Media Release:

  • All past and present registered entries grant full permission for any/all ITC hosted competitions/events to use their name, media footage, and results for event-related purposes, including social media.
  • All competitions/events may be filmed and photographed, with ITC having full permission to use these recordings in various media formats at any stage during or after the competition/event has concluded.

Confidentiality:

  • Participants agree to maintain confidentiality regarding all aspects of ITC competitions/events, including conversations, contracts, intellectual property, and information obtained about other registered members or clients during the competition.
  • Sharing personal information is strictly prohibited and may result in consequences, including exclusion from future ITC events.
  • Sharing event schedules with external parties may result in a ban from ITC events.

Data Security:

  • ITC ensures the secure handling of all provided information and does not share schedules or personal information with external parties.


Safety & Public Liability



  • ITC competitions or events prioritise safety but are not liable for any injury, damage, or loss sustained by competitors, spectators, or their property on the venue premises.
  • Competitors and their parental/guardians affirm their good health and physical condition by participating in ITC competitions or events.
  • Acknowledging the inherent risks, participants agree not to hold ITC competitions or events, its directors, or employees responsible for injuries or illnesses during the competition.
  • Competitors/Parents/Guardians/Studio Owners/Directors commit to adhering to the Release of Liability Clause completed during registration.
  • Attendees are encouraged to supervise children, take responsibility for personal belongings, and report any unsuitable or suspicious activity promptly to any ITC staff


Filming & Photography Regulations in Australia



Privacy Laws:

  • Australia has strict privacy laws that regulate the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information, including images of individuals. Filming or photographing someone without their consent in a situation where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy may violate these laws.

Copyright Laws:

  • Copyright laws protect the intellectual property rights of creators, including photographers and filmmakers. Unauthorized use of copyrighted material, such as filming a performance or displaying copyrighted images, without permission may infringe on these rights.

Defamation Laws:

  • Australian defamation laws protect individuals from false statements that harm their reputation. Filming or photographing someone in a way that portrays them negatively or spreads false information about them could lead to defamation claims.

Public Nuisance Laws:

  • Engaging in filming or photography activities that disrupt public order or cause annoyance or inconvenience to others may violate public nuisance laws.

Trespass Laws:

  • Filming or photographing on private property without permission may constitute trespassing, which is a violation of property rights under Australian law.

Broadcasting Regulations:

  • Broadcasting regulations govern the content and distribution of audiovisual content through television, radio, and online platforms. Filming and broadcasting activities may be subject to licensing requirements and content standards set by regulatory authorities.

Child Protection Laws:

  • In addition to laws specifically prohibiting filming minors without consent, there are child protection laws aimed at safeguarding children from exploitation and harm. Filming or photographing children in a manner that is inappropriate or exploitative may violate these laws.

Legal Consequences:

  • Filming or photographing minors without consent is illegal in Australia and can lead to legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. It's essential to obtain proper authorisation before capturing images of minors to avoid violating their rights and breaking the law.


Music & Video Guidlines





  • Any music containing profanity or racial slurs will result in a 5-point deduction or disqualification.
  • Competitors are required to provide their own music in the form of digital transfer to MusicUploads.
  • Uploading music must be performed through our registration system only(MusicUploads); no email uploads will be accepted.
  • Music must be uploaded before the cut off date, or additional fees will apply.
  • Ensure that the uploaded music is the correct and final version you wish your competitor to perform to.
  • Music will not be accepted on the day of the competition.
  • Competitors must bring back-up music (strictly USB accepted only) in case of a malfunction of the original music submitted. This backup will be available for collection at the merchandise table after each award ceremony. Any unclaimed devices will be discarded at the end of the competition.


Adjudication and Awards



Judging & Scores:

  • Competitors will be evaluated by a judge against a point system.
  • All participants acknowledge that the decisions made by these judges are final and can not be questions after the event to any staff.
  • Participants accept that the directors and producers of ITC competitions or events have full authority to decide how and when the judging will take place.
  • Competitors, parents, guardians, studio directors, and teachers agree that the specific procedures, timing, and criteria for judging are determined exclusively by the organisers and cannot challenge or question these decisions.

Voice Critiques:

  • Judges' voice critiques will be available 2 weeks or earlier after the competition has commenced via Musicuploads, unless stated otherwise.
  • Judges' voice critiques for group entries will be accessible to studio directors only via Musicuploads, unless stated otherwise.

All Entries including General:

  • Each entry will be assigned a score out of 100.
  • Each entry will be assessed based on the below judging elements:
  1. Technique: Accuracy and execution of movements, body alignment and control.
    Score 25.5 - 40
  2. Performance: Engagement with audience, expression and stage presence.
    Score 15.5 - 30
  3. Musicality: Movement light & shade, timing and rhythm.
    Score 4 - 15
  4. Difficulty Level: Suitability to level competing in.
    Score 2 - 7
  5. Costume and Appearance: Presentation and appropriateness of costume.
    Score 2 - 5
  6. Overall Enjoyment: Judges personal impression of the overall performance.
    Score 1 - 3
  • All competitors are judged using a point system rather than against each other.
  • Each competitor will receive a prize based on their points:
  1. PLATINUM (100 points)
  2. GOLD (99.5 - 90 points)
  3. SILVER (89.5 - 70 points)
  4. BRONZE (69.5 - 50 points)

TITLE Entries

  • Title competitors will compete against every participant in their age division via the accumulated point.
  • Title entries are an add on and do not perform twice.
  • Competitors entering for a title will be ranked based on the highest accumulated points in each age division. Please check the specific competition for a list of major titles available.


Time Limits & Age Divisions



Time Limit:

  • Solos, Duos, Trios, and Quads are limited to 2 minutes and 45 seconds.
  • Small Groups and Large Groups are limited to 3 minutes and 30 seconds.

Age Divisions:

  • Age of competitors will be taken from 1st of January.
  • Duo, Trio, Quad, Small & Large Groups age division can be calculated via the below example:
    Add the age of all competitors and divide this by the quantity of competitors.Example below.
    Competitor 1: 12 years old
    Competitor 2: 16 years old
    Competitor 3: 10 years old
    TOTAL: 36 (Divide this by the quantity of competitors, 36/3 = 12)
  • Contestants will be responsible for proof of age to the competition directors should a question arise.
  • Please contact our office if you need further clarification on our levels and guidelines.
  • Any infractions of the rules and regulations will result in disqualification.


Auditorium Admission



  • Registration fees cover the cost of admission for all family and friends at all ITC competitions or events unless stated otherwise, such as a ticketed event for a fundraiser or show.
  • Doors will open approximately 15 minutes prior to the first performance, and the general public is welcome to view the competition.
  • If the stage is littered during a performance, it is the competitor's responsibility to clean it up immediately following the performance.
  • Performers may not enter or exit the stage from anywhere other than the wings.
  • Jumping off the front of the stage is not permitted, and starting the performance from the audience or ending in the audience is also not allowed.
  • Approaching the panel of judges is strictly not allowed.
  • No gifts can be presented to the judges in conjunction with a performance.
  • Special stage or house lighting will not be provided for any performance.
  • At no time are teachers, parents, or competitors allowed to practice, rehearse, or meet on stage.
  • Dressing rooms are limited at each venue. A cleaning fee of $300 minimum will be assessed to any studio that leaves the dressing area in an untidy condition.
  • No food, drinks, or smoking are allowed in the competition area or inside the auditorium.
  • Failure to comply with any or all of the points outlined in this section can result in immediate disqualification and the loss of privileges to participate in future ITC competitions or events.
  • ITC competitions or events staff have the right to deny entry to the auditorium to any person or persons who do not comply with any of the housekeeping rules.


Competition Etiquette



Competition Etiquette & Good Sportsmanship:

  • All participating teachers, studios, dancers, singers, and independent entries are expected to display good sportsmanship.
  • Failure to comply could result in immediate disqualification and loss of privileges to participate in future ITC competitions or events.

Age-Appropriate Performances:

  • All performances must be age-appropriate and family-friendly.
  • It is at the sole discretion of either the competition directors or our adjudicators that if a performance is too suggestive in either costuming, choreography, or song selection that the entry may be ceased and/or points will be deducted. If such deduction takes place, the affected entry will not be eligible for any special awards.
  • We take great pride in creating a safe and age-appropriate environment where competitors can excel in the art of performing without being exploited.

Performance Order:

  • Competitors are expected to perform in the order published, unless the competition directors grant special permission or it has been pre-approved by our office prior to the competition and the office has put it in writing.
  • Unauthorised delays of the performance schedule will result in a 10 points deduction per judge and/or disqualification.

Re-Performance for Critique Only:

  • Competitors who have not completed a routine for reasons that are not technical can re-perform the routine for strictly critique only, including title entries but points will not be added to the overall score.
  • The performer will not qualify to receive a title and/or major prize award for the re-performed routine.

Costume and Readiness:

  • Contestants in the first 10 acts competing should arrive in full costume including hair and make-up and be ready to perform.
  • All other competitors must be ready to perform one hour prior to their scheduled performance time.
  • If the competition is running ahead of schedule, competitors are expected to perform in order of the program and/or when called backstage.


Prop Guidelines



Acceptable Props:

  • Props are acceptable if they can be quickly set up and removed at the end of the performance.

Time Limits:

  • There are strict time limits for setting up and removing props:
  • Solo/Duo/Trio/Quad: 30 seconds in total
  • All Groups: 60 seconds in total

Time Limit Exceedance:

  • If prop set-up/removal exceeds these time limits, performances may be subject to a point deduction.

Floor Alteration:

  • Props must not alter the surface of the floor. A point deduction may result if the stage is not returned to its original pre-performance condition.

Floor Protection:

  • When sliding or moving props, do not damage the dance floor. Studio owners/directors are responsible for replacing damaged floors.

Height Limit:

  • All props are restricted to a maximum height of 4 meters for safety purposes.
  • Power Requirements:
  • Power outlets may not be available for props requiring electricity. Battery-operated props are only accepted.

Weight Limit:

  • Props exceeding the maximum weight limit or deemed a safety hazard will not be allowed.

Same-Day Load-In/Load-Out:

  • Props must be loaded in and out of the venue on the same day they are used. Storing props backstage is not allowed.

Responsibility:

  • ITC will not be responsible for props left overnight or unattended.

Special Requests:

  • Any special requests for prop assembly must be discussed with the Competition Director upon venue arrival.

Identification:

  • All props must be labeled with the studio name for identification purposes.


16. Prohibited/Unacceptable Props/Safety Regulations



Fire and Explosives:

  • Fire (including candles, matches, lighters), fireworks (including sparklers), explosives, swords, knives, weapons, and the use of animals are strictly prohibited.

Toy Weapons:

  • Toy weapons are acceptable. However, toys may not fire projectile objects or have blunt points or sharp edges.

Transportation Devices:

  • Hoverboards and motor vehicles are not allowed.

Props Guidelines:

  • All props should be made of non-toxic substances.
  • Prohibited items include water, wet paint, fake blood, fake snow, silly string, haze or fog machines, strobe lights, bubbles, bubble machines, confetti, streamer or confetti cannons, loose feathers, candy, chalk, crushed cork, flour, corn starch, loose glitter, sand, sawdust, dry ice, or any other similar substances.
  • Any act that uses a substance not permitted and creates a safety hazard for performers or on the floor may be penalised and/or disqualified.

Backdrops and Lighting:

  • Hanging backdrops and special lighting may not be used.

Helium Balloons:

  • Helium balloons are only allowed if they are weighted and if permitted by the contracted venue.

Rosin Use:

  • Rosin must be self-contained and cannot be applied directly to the floor. If your performance requests the use of rosin, please inform the stage director of the competition upon arriving to allocate a safe space.


Voucher Redemption Guidelines



Non-Transferable:

  • Vouchers, credits, prizes, and similar items cannot be divided, shared, transferred, or exchanged for monetary value.

Redemption Conditions:

  • Vouchers can only be redeemed as specified on the voucher or in the email provided.

Expiry Date:

  • Expiry dates are indicated on the voucher or as provided in the email when presented.

Presentation Requirement:

  • Voucher or proof of email must be presented to redeem any and all offers.


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